The Dream of You by Jo Saxton

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 240 pages
Published: January 2018

I first met professional author and speaker, Jo Saxton, at a women’s conference hosted by a local church. When my favorite online ministry, Proverbs 31 decided to facilitate an online Bible study in the fall based on Saxton’s book, The Dream of You: Let Go of Broken Identities and Live the Life You Were Made For, I hurriedly registered to participate. 

In this short book, Saxton has offered concise yet powerful information on how to see yourself differently, specifically focusing on how God sees you. Each chapter begins with a thoughtful, heartfelt letter to the reader from Saxton and is then followed with practical applications based on Biblical principles. The non-fiction book is somewhat autobiographical in that Saxton bears her soul by sharing some of her most vulnerable moments with the audience. Additionally, the piece is targeted toward Christian women; however, as with most motivational literature, anyone can benefit from the overarching themes and message. 

Saxton’s writing style is educational and simultaneously conversational. Many of the ideas she presents are done in such a way that any reader can relate and understand. Having heard her speak and following her on Instagram, I would say she has a bubbly personality and that definitely comes through in her writing. 

Recommendation: Overall, I would say that Saxton has a way with words and is a Biblical scholar. I would recommend this book to any of my friends seeking to rid themselves of negative self-talk and improve on self-perspective and reflection. This book is a must read! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Flooded by Nicki Koziarz

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 208 pages
Published: March 2021

This past spring, I participated in another Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study with Nicki Koziarz's latest book, Flooded: The 5 Best Decisions to Make When Life is Hard and Doubt is Rising, at the forefront. (If you're interested in previous study books I've reviewed, just do a simple search for "Proverbs 31" on my website.) I previously read an earlier book authored by Koziarz, 5 Habits of a Woman Who Doesn't Quit, and it was very powerful. Likewise, Flooded did not disappoint. 

As the title indicates, the Flooded book offers five decisions when life is tough. The decisions that Koziarz has crafted come from her intense study of the Biblical Old Testament figure, Noah, and his calling by God to build an ark. Themes in this book include persistence, trust, and hope.  

The thing I like most about Koziarz's teachings and writings is the practical way in which she applies, the sometimes, complex Biblical teachings. As an author and teacher, Koziarz is talented, and as a person she is truly gifted. In her latest book, she experienced many crises while writing it including the death of not one, but two, family members. Couple that with COVID and the current state of affairs in the United States while she was writing this, she is truly blessed to have delivered such a comprehensive and cohesive teaching book. 

As with all books, I think they meet you where you are. And not all books are for every person at every moment. I don't know that I read this book at the right time in life. That is not to take away anything from the author, but more from me, as I might not have been prepared to receive all it had to offer at this point in my life. However, it is a timeless book that I am thankful to keep on my bookshelf for when it might speak more strongly to me. 

Recommendation: If you are going through a difficult time, this book is a treasure and one that can be referenced again and again. I strongly recommend this book as well as the Proverbs 31 Ministry. It is currently available through the ministry as well as Target department stores.  

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

Read More