Jesus is indeed everywhere

4 Stars

REVIEW: Finding Jesus by Winston Rowntree

This book came to me at just the right time. I have literally been flat on my back due to recent back troubles. And during this struggle, I seek to find where Jesus is in the situation. In fact, as a pastor and preacher, this part of my calling: To look and find Jesus in every situation. And this book is a good reminder of that.

While it’s not meant to be a deep theological book by any means—it is a book of drawings done much in the same style of “Where’s Waldo?”—it actually does speak to a deeper spiritual truth. In Scripture, Jesus promises to always be with us, never leave us, never forsake us. And in these drawings of various scenes of life, like at a wedding, an outdoor party, or rock concert, Jesus is there. Just as He promised.  You just have to look.

I think this book is an imaginative (and whimsical) reminder that we are to always look for Jesus in every situation. Because, He is there!

For more information, visit http://www.randomhouse.com/book/239746/finding-jesus-by-winston-rowntree

*I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this unbiased review.

Cooking up photos in a new photo “recipe” book

4 Stars

REVIEW: Your Family in Pictures: The Parent’s Guide to Photographing Holidays, Family Portraits and Everyday life by Me Ra Koh

I have always loved taking pictures. In fact, at most family gatherings, I am deemed the official family photographer. I also have had the privilege to do professional photography as part of a past career. So, I was excited to see what I might learn in Me Ra Koh’s new book in order to make myself a better photographer.

First, don’t mind the title. Even though this book is titled The Parent’s Guide to Photographing, I think it can be generalized for most everyone. I mean I don’t even have kids. I do have a dog I adore, though!

The chapters are set up almost like “recipes” on how to take the perfect picture of things like pets, holidays, cousins, vacations, and even everyday life such as breakfast. Each “recipe” contains good, helpful ideas such as lightening, time of day, how to get kids settled down, etc.

My personal favorite tips were on the use of light.

Me Ra Koh says you can use any kind of camera, from the DSLR to the iPhone you have handy. Although, much of the talk centered around settings of the camera, and the iPhone doesn’t allow you too much of that.

If you are looking to learn some tips on how to create better photos, and have a better camera than an iPhone, this would be a great book for you in order to try each “recipe” from start to finish. No doubt you will improve along the way.

For more information about the author, visit http://www.randomhouse.com/author/113186/me-ra-koh

*I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this unbiased review.

Working with light using one of the photo "recipes"

A black and white photo I took using one of the photo "recipes"