Editorial Review

John C. Maxwell offers lively stories about the foibles and successes of Lee Iacocca, Abraham Lincoln, Princess Diana, andElizabeth Dole in Read more

Reviews (173)

A good place to start reading about leadership
Leadership books remind me of cooking, there are a finite number of common ingredients that make up the majority of dishes, but there seems to be an infinite number of ways to combine and present these ingredients.
Not so innovative
Maxwell's concepts of what a leader is is quite accurate.However, I don't think he needed to spend over 200 pages to define what a leader is.That's what this book came to be: one long, repetitive, obvious definition for leadership.I didn't see these as laws so much as nuances of what he'd already said.
Begin Here
If you've never read anything by John Maxwell, then you should.And this is the best place to start.
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Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. Christianity - Christian Life - Business    5. Industrial management    6. Leadership    7. Business    8. Business & Economics / Leadership    9. Management & management techniques    10. Personal Growth   

Reviews (18)

first John Maxwell book I've read
As a middle manager, I found this book quite good. Not only is this book for managers, but I believe it ALL staff should read it.For those who have given negative reviews, keep in mind that there ARE people out there who've never read a book on leadership.This one is easy to read, the ideas are easy to understand.It's a great introductory book for those who think that leader is synonymous with manager. This book will help them understand the idea of leadership.

The 360 degree leader
I am disgusted with Maxwell's inability to actually write a book rather he takes quotes then compiles them in the last two thirds of his book after he puts something in earlier on. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME AND MONEY ON THIS ONE.

Great leadership book
Easy read. Great book to sharpen your leadership skill. Not just for CEOs. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. Executive ability    5. Leadership    6. Organization    7. Business & Economics / Leadership   

Editorial Review

Why do some people consistently inspire others to follow their lead? According to John C. Maxwell, author of 24 books and a regular speaker on the topic, it's the "character qualities" they possess. In Read more

Reviews (14)

I could've gained more insight from a nap.
........that "tag" is actually a bit harsh on my part........this really isn't a "bad" book (i.e. one that's full of errors).....it's simply a book filled with cute little truisms that basically anyone who reads the Wall Street Journal 4 times a year already knows.
Solid maxims on leadership
Leadership expert, former preacher and prolific author John C. Maxwell asks readers to savor his chapters on the essential qualities of a leader a little at a time. He suggests reading one chapter a day like you are taking a vitamin, to give the lessons time to sink in with practice. Each of the 21 traits he cites stems from a basic value leaders can use to guide their actions. This follow-up to Maxwell's useful 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership is a thinner book in every way, though still nicely thoughtful. We recommend it as a source of inspiration for self-growth and reflection.

A must have
This is my first John C. Maxwell book and I just love the way he writes. Simple, yet concise. This book is a must have for anyone trying to develope their leadership skills. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business/Economics    3. Leadership    4. Psychological aspects    5. Religion - Christian Life    6. Business & Economics / Corporate Finance    7. Management & management techniques   

Reviews (22)

A True Classic
I knew about this book, of course, because I'm an academic, but hadn't read in it since it's out of my field and I'm not religious.
SUPREME EXCELLENCE.
St.Thomas Aquinas has always been a very solid and firm foundation for the Church.I have always loved this Saint from the very first days of becoming a Roman Catholic.I am amazed at the excellence of this work and constantly refer to this work for any of my own personal questions I may have about God.This is an awesome set to own ! I highly recommend to purchase your own set of the Summa. Thanks to God for giving us this wonderful Saint ...........the Great St. Thomas Aquinas.

The foundation of modern Christendom
How can one over-emphasize the role St. Thomas Aquinas 'Summa Theologica' has played in the modern mind, let alone the Christian one?Whether you are Protestant, Catholic, or Orthodox, Thomas' masterwork is a must for anyone who is seriously interested in systematic or historical theology, the history of philosophy or philosophy generally, and anyone who would like to know what one of the most erudite minds in the history of Western Christendom has said on the nature of God, humankind, and everything in between.
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Subjects:  1. Catholic Church    2. Christianity - Catholicism    3. Christianity - History - Catholic    4. Christianity - Theology - Catholic    5. Doctrines    6. Early works to 1800    7. Religion    8. Religion - Classic Works    9. Spirituality - General    10. Theology, Doctrinal    11. Christian theology   

Reviews (7)

"The Practice of Prayer"
This book is one of, if not the, best contemporary books on prayer, well suited to the ordinary Christian like me.While most other great books on prayer teach you the kinds, disciple and practice of prayer, "Prayer" by Philip Yancey talks about what prayer IS.As part one of the book states, prayer is essentially "keeping company with God".
Balanced
I am a person who has greatly benefited from prayer after major injuries from an accident. Each day I live in the balance of acknowledging the miracles God did through the many prayers of my family and friends, yet living with the limitations/pain my injuries continue to force on me. I found this book to be nicely balanced between those two.
Tough topic
Mr. Yancey tackles one of the more difficult aspects of Christianity and deals with many of most common questions and concerns about prayer.He assures us, several times, that we simply don't have all the answers, but he bases his beliefs on what Christ did and said.All his discussions are supported by Biblical texts. The material is challenging, however, he breaks it up with stories and quotes from many people working through the same enormous issues: why was that prayer answered, and that one not? for example.The book is also organized and chapters titled such that you can reread sections as life situations warrant.In the end, it is simply encouraging.There's no formula, no perfect prayer, no checklist.At a recent talk, Mr. Yancey was asked how we know if we're doing it right.His answer will stick with me: if you're praying, you're doing it right.Combined with his encouragement to keep on keeping on, this book on prayer should be inspiring to all. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christianity    2. Christianity - Christian Life - General    3. Prayer    4. Religion    5. Religion - Christian Life    6. Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality    7. Worship    8. Christian Interest    9. Religion / Christian Life   

Editorial Review

The spiritual premise in Read more

Reviews (986)

Good Book
This was a good book for me, not great but definately good.
Great tool for deepening the appreciation of life and explaining how to knowand walk with God
This is a great book but should not replace the bible as a being the number one written source to refer to. I do not remember holiness being
Good. Helpful.
It's hard for me to understand the extreme reactions to this book. You don't have to agree with everything a book says to get at least some good out of it. I found it to be helpful. It did a good job of making me think about life. Are we just specks floating about on the wind, or are we indeed here for a purpose. The book doesn't delve into theological tedium, thankfully. Mostly, it's just practical stuff. I tell everyone to read a book called The Strongest Defense of Christianity after this one. The Strongest Defense of Christianity seems to be the book of our time in its field. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christian Life    2. Christianity - Christian Life - General    3. Religion    4. Religion - Christian Life    5. Spirituality - General    6. Christian Interest    7. Christian life & practice    8. Religion / Christian Life   

Reviews (27)

Engrossing, Frustrating
I have been nourished in my faith by Barbara Brown Taylor's writings and presentations over the years.This book is no different.Once I began reading it, I was engrossed in her images and descriptions and connections, as she described her spiritual and professional journey.In many passages, she writes moving descriptions of the grace that happens in congregational life.I highly recommend this as an example of intellectually honest and deeply rooted faith.I have been thinking about it a great deal in the months since I read it.
Cathartic, Even for Me
Barbara Brown Taylor never claims that her approach to the ministry was typical, nor does she advocate that other people follow her footsteps in leaving the church (although she does have some interesting suggestions for empowering churchgoers and the faithful in general).Her story of "finding, losing, and keeping," is merely one personal narrative that successfully avoids the pretense that everyone shares the same dramas and should therefore listen to her wisdom.She is not selling anything.Her book is rather an intimate, articulate self-revelation about her path in the world.
Missing a Sense of Call
I have enjoyed Barbara Brown Taylor's essays in The Christian Century and there is no question that she is a talented and descriptive writer. This book is a pleasant (and quick) read largely because her prose flows so beautifully.
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Subjects:  1. Anglican Communion    2. Biography    3. Biography & Autobiography    4. Biography / Autobiography    5. Biography/Autobiography    6. Christianity - Episcopalianism    7. Clergy    8. Episcopal Church    9. Episcopal Churches    10. Personal Memoirs    11. Religious    12. Taylor, Barbara Brown    13. United States    14. Women    15. Biography & Autobiography / Personal Memoirs   

Reviews (28)

Excellent With One Caveat
Wright has written a wonderful book that, while in no way coming close to replacing C.S. Lewis' classic Mere Christianity, does give us the fruit of his scholarly work, in a pastoral way that is open to many more readers. Wright here is the pastor giving us suggestions even on how to pray (I like especially his suggestion about praying with the actual words of Scripture). Wright's two main themes are really two sides of the same coin: how heaven and earth overlap in prayer, worship, and the Eucharist, and how life in the Holy Spirit means that God's future for us--which involves bodily resurrection and a new heaven and new earth-- is anticipated now on earth when we live in the Holy Spirit and experience heaven on earth in prayer and liturgy. Wright as a traditional Anglican values the Eucharist--that approach is refreshing for Catholic readers like myself, although I think he goes too far in trying to minimize the differences between Catholics and others on the Eucharist, a stance that Lewis was wise enough to avoid altogether. Catholics engage in Eucharistic Adoration. There in one singular, concrete practice is the Catholic difference that cannot be made to disappear with a wave of the hands. With that caveat in mind, I still highly recommend the book to all readers, including Catholics. For a more detailed review, see my blog above for October 11, 2006.

Home Run for N.T.!
It seems many times I'm only reading material that reinforces what I already know. This book went beyond that educational rut. It gave fresh language to what I really believe and then took me places where I could see my faith from totally new perspectives. I grew deeper in knowledge and more passionate in love with God through it. Thanks.
Simply Very Good Writing
N.T. Wright gets it right.He writes with a style that is both lucid and lyrical -- clearly explained and well-written.In fact the thing I liked most about this particular work is that the author delivers exactly what the title promises -- a short exploration of the major themes of the Christian faith that simply makes sense.
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Subjects:  1. Apologetics    2. Christianity    3. Christianity - General    4. Christianity - Theology - Apologetics    5. Religion    6. Religion - Theology    7. Christian Interest    8. Religion / Christian Life    9. Religion / General   

Editorial Review

In this splendid retelling of the biblical story of Hosea, bestselling author Francine Rivers pens a heartbreaking romance between a prostitute and the upright and kind farmer who marries her; the story also functions as a reminder of God's unconditional love for his people. Read more

Reviews (370)

simply the best
This book is simply one of the best books I have ever read!!Echoing the reviews of so many others for this book, I could not put it down and read it through the night.Francine Rivers has been blessed with the ability to create characters we can connect to immediately and cry with throughout the book.She includes topics that so many are embarrased by or ashamed of; she not only makes them interesting but she teaches compassion through them.I would not recommend this book to the young due to the sexual implications but those same implications are part of the hook that connects you with the characters so I would recommend it to everyone else.

audiobook
I had listened to this book on audiotape a few years ago, and it touched
Eye opening
A wonderful book, it brought me to tears numerous times. I highly recomend it to anyone in search of a good book to read. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Fiction    2. Fiction - Romance    3. Popular American Fiction    4. Religious - General    5. Romance - General    6. Romance: Modern    7. FICTION / GENERAL / ROMANCE    8. Fiction / Romance / General   

Subjects:  1. 1937-    2. American - General    3. Fiction - General    4. Handbooks, manuals, etc    5. Humorous    6. Karon, Jan,    7. Literary    8. Literary Collections    9. Literature: Classics    10. Mitford (N.C. : Imaginary place)    11. Mitford years    12. Sagas    13. Fiction / Literary   

Reviews (14)

Read About the Power of Print to Change Lives
Books change lives and the stories in this title bear repeated witness of this fact. In each chapter, a well-known author talks about the power of the printed page to transform life.Each story is different and unique to the individual. I love this book and discovered new insights into several authors who I appreciate.

YOU'VE GOT TO READ THIS BOOK!55 PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF THE BOOK THAT CHANGED THEIR LIFE
This book is one of the best I have ever read, I too could not put it down and finished it in 3 days!I was sad when I finished it.The stories were all so exciting.I couldn't wait to read some of their recommended books!I do hope there will be more editions of this book to follow.

An Interesting Look At What People Read And Why
I've read a number of books and articles about reading. I love to read and find it fascinating to see what others read and how the books have influenced their lives. More often than not, the list includes the same titles. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD and THE CATCHER IN THE RYE are usual favorites. GREAT EXPECTATIONS and THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV are often mentioned by more adventurous readers and of course, a work of Shakespeare has to be included on such a list. I planned on passing by YOU'VE GOT TO READ THIS BOOK since I figured I already know what's going to be in it, but when I looked in the back of the book, glanced at the titles, I was impressed by the variety of contributors, the wide array of books selected, and the stories that followed. Each contributor selects a book, tells a personal story and the way the book impacted their life.
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Subjects:  1. Books & Reading    2. Books And Reading    3. Inspiration & Personal Growth    4. Inspirational    5. Life change events    6. Literary Criticism    7. Motivational & Inspirational    8. Personal Growth - General    9. Self-Help / Motivational   

Editorial Review

Few of us are natural-born leaders, according to John C.Maxwell, author of Read more

Reviews (53)

It Works
Been studying this book with my Network Marketing team.Was so good I had to read ahead!In my current job I've been applying this and the results have been absolutely noticable even by my boss!
An excellent tool for leadership development
As a university student, I initially purchased this book to review for an assignment in a Leadership Theory course, but the value I received from this text was greater than expected. Maxwell's reputation as a leadership expert is one of the reasons I chose this book, but another reason was that this book focuses not only on the concepts of leadership in general but mainly on personal leadership development. Overall, I enjoyed this book, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in the study of leadership or developing their own leadership abilities. I found John C. Maxwell's work to be very inspirational and very applicable to real-world applications. After having contemplated what leadership truly means and how it affects us on a daily basis, it is easier to see that its impact is all around us in some form or to some degree. As Maxwell puts it, "everything rises and falls on leadership," and anyone with the desire to do so can become a better leader. This book explains how to do it effectively.

Favorite short read on leadership
I have studied the subject of leadership for several years and continue to return to this book as the best short-read on the subject ever written. I read it at least once a year just to refresh myself. The stories are well chosen and the principals are sound. It is not an in-depth treatise but provides an excellent foundation for understanding the difference between leadership and management - which is greatly lacking today. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Applied Psychology    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Christian Life    4. Christianity - Christian Life - Business    5. Inspirational - General    6. Leadership    7. Motivational & Inspirational    8. Psychology    9. Business & Economics / Leadership    10. Management & management techniques   

Reviews (3)

Attitude does make the difference
This book was very informative and easy to read.John Maxwell wrote in a language that is very to easy to understand and kept it very interesting and to the point.I recommend this book to everyone that would like to succeed in their personal and professional life.

makes you and breaks you
there is not need to get a rocket science degree to understand the magic of your attitude, keeps it high under all the circumstances no matter what and build necessary skills for the development of your own career, attitude alone cannot help you to reach the top step of a ladder but it would be plus if you have it with other skills, skills are important to take you the place you are dream about. It is a good book if you can pick up one or two good things out of it and implement them in your life, you will see the big difference between the Difference Maker and the Difference Taker. The rest is history.

Your Attitude Determines Your Altitude
This is a concise and straightforward read on how your attitude -- when blended with competence and other key qualities -- can be a "game breaker" in your favor in life.Maxwell is a motivational caffeine pill and this book reinforces what we sense is true anyway. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Attitude (Psychology)    2. Business & Economics    3. Business / Economics / Finance    4. Business Life - General    5. Business Life - Inspirational    6. Business/Economics    7. Leadership    8. Leadership In Business    9. Personal Growth - Success    10. Success    11. Business & Economics / Leadership   

Reviews (13)

As always from Blanchard, a great book
I have been a (raving) fan of Ken Blanchard's for many years now, ever since I first read the One Minute Manager. As always, this book presents effective leadership lessons in small, bite-size chunks through story-telling.
Secret Revealed
This book is a very easy and enjoyable read.It delivers everything promised including the SECRET. I would recomend it whether you own or manage a business or just belong to a local civic organization.

Enjoyable Story Filled With Solid Leadership Lessons
In "The Secret" Ken Blanchard and Mark Miller provide readers with a simplistic and enjoyable story that explains valuable lessons in leadership.This is not a gripping novel nor is it an in-depth explanation of leadership theory and practices.It is a palatable, memorable, and practical explanation of a serving model of leadership.
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Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. Leadership    5. Leadership In Business    6. Management    7. Management - General    8. Management & management techniques   

Reviews (5)

At the Heart
Dave and Clarice Johnson have been married for twelve years.In that time they have drifted apart, but they share the same house and same bed.Yet their dreams and goals are so different.
Heartwarming and Real!
T.D. Jakes' book is timely and engaging!Each page will have you yearning for more.Not Easily Broken book proves how, no matter how earth shattering the struggle, God is still a God of healing and restoration within marriages.I highly recommend it; excellent read!
The plot keeps you moving!
I can count on one hand the number of fiction books I've read in the last 10 years, but I couldn't put this one down! It captured my attention from the very first page, and I could relate to the characters immediately. I read it in two evenings. You'll want to keep going to see what happens, especially after the book takes a surprise turn. The other reviewer is correct...it's real without being preachy. And it should speak to the hearts of married women, esp. those of us with good men that we sometimes take for granted. Grab the book, light up the fire, get a cup of coffee, get the kids to bed, and have at it! A great book!!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. African American Novel And Short Story    2. Christian fiction    3. Fiction    4. Fiction - General    5. Fiction - Religious    6. General    7. Marriages    8. Religious - General    9. Fiction / General   

Editorial Review

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Reviews (517)

Okay for what it is, but disappointing nevertheless
Strobel does a good job of presenting the case for Christ. By interviewing various scholars ("expert witnesses"), he builds that case in the same way he would build a legal case to take to court. He anticipates each objection, each piece of countering evidence, that the opposing side might introduce, and he deals with these one by one. So far, so good.
Hate to lodge dissent
I hate to be a naysayer but as a former agnostic myself I had heard so much good about this book I was anxious to get my hands on a copy. Perhaps it was the buildup that raised my expectations too high. It is not bad for a book of its kind but nothing different from those who have gone before him down this road of apologetics.Many have disagreed with me on this but I do not think it would work well on the serious agnostic or atheist. Many, I think, would consider it an insult to their intelligence. So from the perspective of this Christian reviewer, you might want to look elsewhere for a book to share with friends. This one is helpful as a faith-booster but not a very good faith-inducer in my opinion; fair but no silver bullet of apologetics.

Good for new Christians and athiests
If you believe in God but have doubts that Jesus existed, this is a good book for you.If you don't believe in God this is a good book for you....if you go into it with an open mind.If you are dead set that God doesn't exist and don't want to find out other wise then don't read this book.I like this book because it gives many different scholar's views on various subjects.
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Subjects:  1. Apologetics    2. Bible - Biography - New Testament    3. Christianity - Theology - Apologetics    4. Christianity - Theology - Christology    5. Christianity - Theology - General    6. Jesus Christ    7. Person and offices    8. Religion    9. Theology - Christology    10. Christian Interest    11. Religion / Christian Life    12. The historical Jesus   

Reviews (14)

Extremely good read....!
This was even more resourceful than Attitude 101 which I thoroughly enjoyed. I like the references to the past & present leaders, the real subtleties that he makes mention of, and also the quotes he uses. The book has real substance, it's a good read, and well worth the time. Highly recommend it, whether you are a leader, or just an aspiring one.

I'm a Leader....Now What?
By:Jeffrey W. Bennett, Founder of LayMentor and author of Under the Lontar Palm...
You people talk too much.
This is a good book that is well worth it's cost. It lives up to it's title, and I benifited from reading it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business/Economics    3. Christianity - Christian Life - Business    4. Leadership    5. Religion - Christian Life    6. Business    7. Business & Economics / Leadership    8. Christianity   

Reviews (14)

Feast for the Soul...and your business
Dr Cloud serves up a delish and varied plate in his most recent offering toward healthy living. This book is highly readable, yet worthy of slow savoring as opposed to a quick snack.
Integrity: The Courage to Meet the Demands of Relity
For those in business, ministry, and anyone with a relationship, this book is a must read. The principles that are learned will change your life, I just thought I knew what integrity was, now I see the areas I need to improve in my life so that my relationships will be so much better. An excellent book!

Generalized overview with little new insight
I agree completely with the Becksted review (I also noted that it was helpful, but I meant it would have been helpful had I read it before I bought the CD).
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Subjects:  1. Applied Ethics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business Life - Inspirational    4. Character    5. Ethics & Moral Philosophy    6. Integrity    7. Leadership    8. Personal Growth - Success    9. Personal Guidance    10. Self-Help    11. Business & Economics / Management    12. Christian Interest    13. Christian life & practice    14. Religion / Christian Life   

Reviews (28)

One of my favorite books of all time!
This book delves deeply into the heart issues behind many of our actions. In reading this book, I was most convicted about allowing my circumstances to dictate my behavior. Nancy speaks heavily on the responsiblity we each have to find our joy in Christ and not in our circumstances, which is something that's good for every women to be reminded of.

Outstanding book for all women
This is one of the most succint and direct books I've ever read for a woman who wants to live a Godly life.I loved it so much that I bought one for my mom and best friend.She is direct and clear with her writings and I felt that it applied to all Christian women who desire to truly walk the walk.Life applicable.
Lies Women Believe
This book had a lot of extreme views.Demoss generalizes constantly.I felt she twisted scripture to explain her point of view.I did gleam some good out of the book.I am a fairly new Christian and I felt it was more harmful then good.I felt it could give a Christain women a feeling there are only absolutes to God's way, that we are not individuals.I felt it weighed me down more than lifted me up.I had to go back to God's word and study because at times I felt the study was toxic.I think Demoss is very biased and narrow minded.I would especially not recommend it if you are a new Christian.I also about group study I would only recommend it if you are with seasoned Christians who are willing to be objective about this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christian Life    2. Christian women    3. Christianity    4. Christianity - Christian Life - General    5. Christianity - Christian Life - Women's Issues    6. Religion    7. Religion - Christian Life    8. Religious aspects    9. Religious life    10. Truthfulness and falsehood    11. Women's Studies - General    12. Religion / Christian Life