Moving, inspiring, exciting
580309
This was my introduction to The Idan Raichel Project.  I found the various pieces on this album to be wonderful.  These songs have diverse cultural roots and are presented in emotionally moving creations.  Some are haunting and moving, others inspiring, and others are simply fun.  Because I don't speak the languages the lyrics are sung in, I don't understand them cognitively, but can appreciate their meanings intuitively.  On an emotional and spiritual level, they speak volumes.
3312812
This is one of the most moving, inspiring DVDs I've seen. I watched it twice straight through. I was absolutely riveted by his devotion to helping unfortunate people in the world, the story of his own incarceration and torture, his continued determination to help women and children in Afghanistan help themselves. He challenges me to do so much more with my life than I had even thought to do, and I thought I WAS doing a lot to help others. Watch this! It will change your perspective and your life.
3296348
I enjoyed this moving book on many levels, as a wife, as an English teacher, as a feminist, and as an American citizen post 9/11.  Ms. Trooboff weaves together the human experience of loss with a national experience of loss in a plot that also introduces a little-known historical figure of the early 17th century who advocates for the education of girls.  The use of email to tell the story adds an element that maintains the momentum of the plot.  I liked it so much that I sent copies to several friends.
3973523
This review was originally posted on the blog www.writingdownlife.com. You can view the original post there.

I had no idea what to expect upon opening the virtual cover of Four Given by Malo Bel. What I found, from the first paragraph, compelled me forth until the very last syllable.  In fact when I read the last line, I kept trying to scroll the page to find more text! But alas, every good book concludes and most good authors, know where and how to end it.  Mr. Bel, did this well. I read Four Given in one sitting, despite having a few qualms with it, which were probably (hopefully) ebook, formatting issues such as missing or forgotten quotes, omitted words and the lack of page numbers. But otherwise, I was hooked! (I would have rated it with 5 stars if not for the errors.)

Mr. Bel's ability to spin this tale was astonishing.  I am going to say this out loud because I have experienced it and because I believe a lot of my audience consists of fellow Christians: this work was an anointing. The story resonates something very special on a spiritual level. I found that prospect, exciting!

Vibrant isn't a strong enough word to describe the illustrations depicted of the main character's experiences of meeting and walking with Yesh (who is actually...well, Yesh is a good clue as to who...).  His descriptive allusions of place, whether real or in Bel's mind, were vivid yet tranquil; joyful yet full of parables, as Yesh put Bel to the test, so to speak, in order to teach him the important lessons needed, in order to further his scope and walk toward a God centered life.

At first, I was unable to decipher if this work is fiction or non-fiction and perhaps it is meant to be as such. No matter the genre, the plot twists and outcomes are cryptic, gripping and the ending, unexpected yet realistic. There is a truth in the emotional portrayals playing out, from betrayal to forgiveness to understanding, hence all roads leading to God. The book reads so well, so quickly that it was like a film reel for me, with the action leading from scene to scene.

To not give away much more, I shall stop with this statement: Malo Bel, whomever you are, I pray you're anointed fingers keep tapping away at the keyboard and that God keeps moving stories through you, for years to come. You have gained a fan...and I'm probably not alone!  Kudos, sir!
1725906
This was a truly remarkable book. Yiscah's story is beautiful and moving, and written in a way that will touch readers from all walks of life. Her journey is remarkable, and she shows how one can use faith as a source of strength for all people, and not as a way to shun those who are different. I think this book will resonate with all audiences, Jewish and non Jewish, religious and secular.
3634157
A loving and moving testimony to the strength of one stubborn family facing a powerful enemy.
  Heather Cariou deftly draws you into her family's world of intense determination and close-knit ties with wonderful writing and a clear brave eye. I was so transported while reading, I could feel the cold Canadian wind whipping by. And the writing has such precision and real-ness to it, that I could also feel my face turn hot and red, recalling my own family memories and our continued struggles and rivalries.
  The story is both romantic and tough and overall fiercely hopeful.
An enlightening and inspiring read for all of us on our own hero's journey, no matter what we are up against.
4058034
I read this book in 2 days.  I could hardly put it down.  This is a moving book and one that will inspire you to turn to God more and to live your life in a more prayful manner.  Donna-Marie's is a gifted writer and her story will move your heart.
4749479
Beautifully written novel.  Staggering at times the depth of Cooper's attention to detail in explaining the history, architecture, prophecy, apologetics, the politics and social mores of this not-so-distant future tale of Biblical end times.  The characters were all so well developed, round and rich with emotion and drama.  It is a very touching novel that moved me greatly.  Irrespective of your faith (or lack thereof), the action and storytelling keep the pages turning lightning fast. Cooper is a rising talent.
2737193
I would give this book 10 stars if I could. I did a search on Amazon recently hoping to find a novel that was both inspiring and funny, and this book came up. It's all that and more.  It is an inspiring story of three women who go on a kind of inner sojourn to transform their lives. They step out of their comfort zones and trust that the life they were meant to live is on the other side of it. Oh, how we need more novels like this!  I did not want it to end and cannot wait to see more from this author. The message is so wonderful and inspiring. Truly inspiring. I am not sure how she did it, but I felt that there was a part of me that could relate to all three women, even though they are all so different. I honestly could not have loved this book more. I am still sad that it is over. but even though it's over, I feel like it has left an imprint on my life.
2791075
WHERE THE WIND LEADS is the most profoundly moving and inspirational book I've read in several years.  The combination of Dr Vinh Chun and Tim Downs has resulted in a tragedy-turned triumph epic story that not only has you on the edge of your seat and close to tears most of the time, but also, somehow, has an ingenious ability to add an astounding touch of Asian humor right in the midst of the most traumatic and life-threatening situations anyone could imagine.  More than anything, it is a testimony of the incredible ability of God Almighty to intervene in the most absoutely devastating of situations, over and over again, and ultimately not only bring an entire family out of certain death on the open sea after countless betrayals in two countries, but also is the heroic story of the persistence and unbelievable faith of a man, Stan Mooneyham, who would not let the plight of the Vietnamese Boat People go without some kind of intervention, and how they miraculously came together.  And that's only the first half of the story!  You have to read the book to find out how the second half ends, and to realize that there still is the reality of fulfilling the American Dream, even in the face of unbelievable setbacks and challenges.  Truly Uplifting and inspirational!
1678129
I was moved by this inspiring story of a mother's love for a daughter in trouble. The spiritual journey undertaken by Freeman is fascinating reading for those of us who believe in the spiritual. Highly recommended.
2271929
This story manages to fit neatly into four genre categories and does it amazingly well!  While reading, my imagination portrayed the story in black and white form with dashes of color, mostly red, which is significant to the gay character. This is not due to a lack of development, but rather should be taken as a compliment to the author's talent to imprint emotions into the scene without directly stating or over dramatizing. I felt a connection to each character and grew to care about them all, even the `bad' guys because their humanity coupled with history sparked a touch of sympathy. The lead character is an inspirational female, not for her overtly heroic antics, but for her ability to cope and face challenging situations. Thematically, the story builds on many levels, and for me the most convincing is the sense of bravery. Every character at some point and to some degree shows bravery and compassion, which makes this a moving and deeply human historical tale worth exploring.

I don't want to give anything away, but the ending was a bit too easy of an escape especially given the power of the foe the lead character faces. However, I am eager to read A Night of Long Knives (sequel,#2) to see where it picks up.  Perhaps my questions or reservations will be answered. Please take into consideration I'm really picking to find one small flaw. I almost hate to mention it because the book was craftily constructed and I do not wish to tarnish this jewel!
3329329
There is a motorcycle in this story. It's really not a key element; but it does start up fast. Just a couple pushes on the gas and it roars to life. Takes a little longer for this plot to get moving. But when it does, hang on tight! The excitement won't allow you to let go of the book until you've finished the ride. Filled with anger, repentance, tears,laughter and lots of joy; you will love the plot. Wonderful characters who live a real life with myriad issues to overcome. Their reliance on Christ and belief that He hears every prayer is an inspiration. Miracles are sought and prayers are answered. An outstanding ride around their mountains! An outstanding read. Enjoy,
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254743
This autobiographical collection of tales reads like a novel. It is exciting, inspirational and a fascinating view into what it was like growing up in South Africa under apartheid. His mother is such an amazing character. And it is so refreshing to see that people can thrive and grow despite the attempts of the world to impose terrible limitations. It is a triumph of spirit to read.
1463210
Powerful, moving,loving,interesting characters and situations
1207704
When I began reading Justice I could not anticipate how immensely I would enjoy it, and how profoundly it would speak to me.  I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the power, beauty, and poetry of this novel, which moved me deeply.  It was hard to recall that I was reading a newly published work, and not yet the revered classic which it must inevitably become, if there is any judgement or wisdom in the world.  Similarly, it was at times difficult to recall that I was reading a work of fiction, as the truth of the characters, and the extraordinary vividness of description, powerfully narrated and exquisitely written, compellingly conveyed lived experience.  A work of profound compassion and humanity.

I shared the novel with a friend who well knew the beautiful Italian locales where the novel is set (which were, I believe, a part of the author's own childhood).  My friend was so moved by Justice, that she read it twice through.  My friend had visited Italy at the period the author  describes, on tour with an ENSA troupe (the British U.S.O.) during the war, and in Naples she met the G.I. she would marry.  Carey Harrison's evocation of time and place rang true for her and brought back haunting memories.  She, too, was deeply moved by the novel.

Since reading Justice, I find that I think of it often. While reading it, I couldn't put it down (and my friend found the same); to read it felt like an exhilarating and significant event, as it always does to experience a classic. Justice continues to move and inspire me.
737041
I found Zane's story enlightening, inspiring and gripping. His tenacity to become who he feels himself to be is amazing. The great lengths he was willing to go through in pursuing his dreams is truly moving. I am in awe of how he so clearly depicts the feelings and struggles he went through. What a testimony to the strength of the human spirit.