Book Review: Simple Secrets to a Happy Life

Luci Swindoll, renowned Women of Faith speaker, provides some delightful insight into what it takes to have a happy life. Her musings on lessons learned over a lifetime of loving and serving God are served up in 50 short chapters, divided into five sections. Each chapter is titled with a modern day proverb – an instructional five word sentence – which is neither complicated nor difficult; a child could understand most of the basic premises. Each is colourfully illustrated by an incident or example from her own life, as she encourages us to begin with the basics, develop our own style, achieve balance, live a good life, and stay connected.

I have enjoyed listening to Luci Swindoll at Women of Faith events, both live and via dvd; I found this book as interesting and challenging as the woman herself. Her joy shines through when she speaks; it is similarly apparent in “Simple Secrets to a Happy Life”, as she provides godly wisdom for practical living. I would encourage others to not only read this book, but also embrace Luci Swindoll’s prescription for true happiness in our own unique circumstances: these simple truths are sure to yield profound results if we will accept and apply them!

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson publishers through the Book Sneeze review program, and was not required to write a positive review.

Book Review: Surprised by Laughter - The Comic World of C.S.Lewis

I have long been a CS Lewis fan, and was drawn to this book when the publisher offered it (free) for review for that reason. “Surprised by Laughter” sure surprised me, but my initial reaction was not laughter! I really struggled to get into it: if it hadn’t been for the need to write a review, I likely would have quit. However, with perseverance came the reward. The more I read, the more it caught my interest.

The author, Terry Lindvall PhD, gives an indepth look at Lewis’ writings, dividing his “dissertation” into 6 sections: The Idea and the Legacy, Joy, Fun, The Joke Proper, Satire and Flippancy, and Conclusion: the Laughter of Love. Lindvall draws from books, letters, conversations, and shorter works of C.S. Lewis, revealing his ability to find joy and laughter in his surroundings. He also introduces us to other authors who had an effect on Lewis: Chesterton, Milton, and Tolkien, among others.

Although I ended up enjoying this book a lot more than I thought I would, I would not recommend it very highly. There is a lot of repetition; reducing the book by about half would have been a good idea. The author is a PhD, and the pedantic language in some sections would be a deterrent to many. If you’re looking for a light read, don’t pick this book! If, on the other hand, you love C.S.Lewis, and want to learn more about those who influenced him, as well as his satirical sense of humour, you will enjoy “Surprised by Laughter”.

I received this book free of charge from Thomas Nelson Publishers, and was not required to write a positive review.