Literaryink

Review and News

2007-12-30T23:09:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone,
I know I promised we would post soon, but as we all know, that didn't happen. It seems that time just goes by way too fast. I just want to let you know that Literaryink will probably be down for quite some time as we all have a lot of stuff in our schedule. Sam, Ted, and I really believe in what this blog can accomplish and hope that we can revive it sometime soon. But right now, it has to make way for some other things in our lives. Thank you for your support, and I hope we can return soon.

Meanwhile, here's a guest review by Lauren Batchelor. The only girl who keeps this blog from rusting. ;)

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Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Everyone knows the basic story: Nice guy scientist makes potion and unleashes his pure evil side. Eventually he cannot control the change from good to evil, and kills himself to avoid becoming Mr. Hyde forever.

Not a super long book.

But why has it become a classic? Why didn’t it die with all the other “Penny Dreadfuls” of its day? Had it simply been a thriller, it would have faded into obscurity. However, it delves into areas not always thought about, things that most people preferred to glaze over. It goes into the psychological effects sin has on a person’s character, and with a chilling conclusion.

Dr. Jekyll grows tired of behaving like a good citizen, and decides to try and split his identity into two separate parts: a good, though imperfect, man and a man that is bent on pure evil. In the beginning, his evil counterpart Mr. Hyde is small and weak from disuse. After a while though, he grows stronger and soon Dr. Jekyll cannot control his evil persona. Does this theme sound at all familiar? Looking at this from a Christian perspective, we can draw several conclusions:

Sin is habit forming, and the more you do it, the harder it is to resist and control
Sin is a temporary, an of the moment joy. The after effects are disastrous (like a candy binge)
Sin has consequences; unpleasant consequences not discussed in the brochure.

Using the book as a metaphor for the effects that sin as a habit has over us, Robert Louis Stevenson ends with a dreadful consequence: death.

This book is not a light read book. Read it carefully, and think well on it and compare it to what the Bible says on sin: “Jesus replied, ‘Everyone who sins is a slave to sin”.

John 8:34

Guest Review: More Than a Carpenter

2007-09-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

Alright, alright, don't get mad. I know we haven't posted or awhile. The reason why is because we have all been busy with schoolwork, etc. Ted and Sam are both in debate which makes them extra busy, and I am in Apologetics. Anyway, we will try to post more often.
Here is a review from Lauren Batchelor:

When my mom first persuaded me to get the book, I was afraid it would be like one long lecture, full of super big words, small print and heavy theological thoughts. All in all, a very dull read. I was very wrong.

In 128 short pages, Josh McDowell answers the question, “Who Is Jesus”.

Using his personal story as an example, McDowell puts forth and answers questions and objections used to dispute the “Authenticity” of Jesus Christ.

More Than A Carpenter offers the reader proof given be lead historians, professors, lawyers and theologians, and numerous references from the Bible. A 101 crash course type book, it effectively incorporates the personal with the factual.

While some parts seemed a little too basic for a long-time Christian, the book lays a nice foundation for any who face questions like these regularly. McDowell establishes the Bibles’ authority and historical accuracy, shows how science cannot be used to prove or disprove Jesus, and what made Jesus so different from other religious leaders who preached peace, like Buddha and Confucius.

Although the book was written 25 years ago, the evidence still stands; strong proof that More Than A Carpenter is not just wishful thinking or hastily compiled quotes. McDowell brings together a case that Jesus is real, and after reading the book, I must agree.

Throughout the book, McDowell raises worthy thoughts and questions about our personal relationship with God, hitting you at just the right moment to make you say Aha! Or, if it’s thoughtful, "Ohh". Definitely worthy of numerous readings, the book is a keeper.

Buy More Than a Carpenter

The Arnold Pent Family

2007-08-21T15:13:00.001-07:00

In the history of the world, there may never be a more unusual family then that of Arnold Pent…

Meet the Pent’s. They are a hard working, God-glorifying family who travels around the country speaking anywhere that people will take them in. Trusting in God to provide, Mr. Pent set off with his family on a crusade across America. It is a daily battle to even find the money they need to buy food and gas. The entire family studies the bible 1 hour and 30 minutes every day, averaging 22,060 hours in a lifetime. I have only one word to say. Wow. This family is truly amazing.

So, by this time, you probably have realized this family is slightly different then ones you have seen. If you happen to live among these kinds of people, please email me and I will move immediately.

One thing that separates this book from other books like "Cheaper by the Dozen", "I Remember Mamma", and "Life with Father" is that the Pent’s are a strong Christian family with strong Christian morals. The author, Arnold Pent III, makes sure that every story told in the book, every small detail, points to God and his grace. But that alone doesn’t make the book good.

Arnold III is not the greatest author of all time. Many authors aren’t even close. Give this author a boring, ordinary subject, he most likely would not succeed with his writing. What makes his book so great is that he has a totally unique story. That’s what made “Cheaper by the Dozen”. Something that most people have not heard of. Traveling a million miles, and sawing off the back of their Pierce Arrow is not an everyday event in your neighborhood.

So why do I recommend this book? It’s a great book about an amazing family. That I have already established. As for huge benefits, They don’t really exist. But it is a good relaxing book to read after some harder books. My rating for this book is four (out of five) stars.

Buy Ten Peas in a Pod

Isaac Harris

Delay: Busy-ness

2007-08-02T15:05:00.000-07:00

There's been a gap between posts.
You are wondering.We are kind of wondering too.
Let us explain:
You all are probably trying to figure out what happened to us. Don't worry, we are all fine.
We have all been pretty busy with family stuff, summer work projects, etc. We are really sorry for the gap between posts. please rest assured that we will post as soon as we find time to do so.
Sam, who is next up to post, is re-reading the book he plans to review. If you are bored and looking for something to read we suggest The Rebelution for reading.
Right now, we are working on some small things that will make the blog look nicer.

Sorry again for the delay,

Isaac, Ted, and Sam

Oliver Twist ~ Charles Dickens

2007-07-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

This review was written by Sam's older sister Kelly Taylor. Thank you for the contribution Kelly!
~
“Child as he was, he was desperate with hunger, and reckless with misery. He rose from the table, and advancing to the master, basin and spoon in hand, said, somewhat alarmed at his own temerity: ‘Please, sir, I want some more.’” - Pg 25, Oliver Twist

The classic tale of Oliver Twist was originally penned by Charles Dickens in 1839, a social novel written to call attention to the revolting state of England’s lowlife, the wrongs of the welfare system, and other evils such as child labor and the recruitment of children as criminals.

Young Dickens experienced a fragment of this first hand when at the age of 12, his father was imprisoned for overspending and Charles was sent to the workhouses, working 10 hours a day at Warren’s Boot Blacking factory. The reader feels Dickens reflections of childhood and his passion for public awareness as he reads this classic story revolving around an innocent orphaned boy, Oliver Twist, born into a poor house outside of London.

As the tale takes its ups and downs, Oliver finds himself with the best and the worst of London society. He encounters various people from the detestable Fagin, and his unruly gang of pickpockets to the benevolent Mr. Brownlow, who kindly offers Oliver a home. The plot thickens with the beautiful Rose Maylie, a compassionate young woman with a strangely mysterious past and uncanny resemblance to Oliver.

The story reveals the nature of man in many ways, as some are destined to be evil (see Proverbs 16:4) and others destined for good and greatness. Characters like villainous Bill Sikes and Monks show how destructive acting rashly can be on ones life. Harry Maylie teaches the value of life, and love with poverty, over riches accompanied by loneliness. The haughty Mr. Bumble unwittingly educates us on the value of humility, while Mr. Brownlow demonstrates love even through difficulty. Through Nancy we learn faithfulness, and by Noah Claypool we see the folly of trying to gain wealth by thievery and falsehood, and the benefits of prosperity gained by labor and honest hard work. Along for the ride are memorable characters such as Mr. Grimwig, a funny old man, who distrusts Oliver, but comes to love him in the end after he finally stops offering to “eat his head.” (For the reason, you will have to read the book!).

This exciting tale is interwoven with innocence and iniquity, love and hatred, joy and sorrow. I myself am an avid Dickens fan, and this book didn’t let me down in the least! Recommended as a good introduction to Dickens works, Oliver Twist is well worth your time as it shows us more than the sorrows of London’s poor in the early 1800’s and how to guard against the mistakes of the past, but also many valuable life lessons from the brilliant mind of Charles Dickens

Written by Kelly Taylor, Vancouver WA

Buy Oliver Twist

Bruchko

2007-07-10T10:33:00.000-07:00

This book is not your everyday missionary biography. It’s not a story about a missionary who worked in Europe connecting with some exciting culture. That is good and it can still be hard and trying, but there is something awesome about reading the story of one person who did all God told them to do, even if it meant giving up their life.

I am around missionaries a lot through my family and church so I get to hear a lot of powerful stories. And, of course, I love missionary biographies. Some of them were really powerful. Stories of the lives of Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Cameron Townsend, and William Carey made me think twice about my life and how selfish I could be. But none of them affected me the same as reading Bruchko, the story of Bruce Olson, a guy who at 19, without funding or any experience went into the jungles of Columbia to share the Gospel with a stone age tribe known as the Motilones.

Bruce Olson was just another kid from Minnesota who probably wouldn't go anywhere big in life. He wore glasses, wasn't very athletic or strong, and he wasn't even that smart. His parents were Lutherans, he wasn't a Christian, though he thought he was. Then he began to go to a friends church were he learned about the true God. He accepted Jesus as his Lord and began to live his life for him. From the outset he faced difficulty. His parents didn't agree with him about his new found religion. His Dad would even lock him out of the house at nights when he came home late from church. He had been going to his new church for quite some time when one day during a week when his church had missionaries come and share their stories he felt God telling him to go to Columbia.

So, with no promises of support, no training, and only God's leading in his life, Bruce gets on a plane and flies to Columbia. His adventures in the jungles and cities of this country are frightening and powerful. Many times different people tried to kill him. He has almost died of a number of different diseases. His best friend is shot by outlaws, and his fiancee dies in a car wreck. Yet, amazingly, he trusts God.

What follows is an amazing display of Bruce’s faith in God and God’s power through Bruce. I won’t get into everything that happens because I want you to read it and gain something from it. Trust me when I say that it will make you stop and think about the way you are living your life. After reading this book I looked at my life and realized how selfish I really was and how much I needed God to change me. So be warned, it will affect you.

Bruchko is a story set in the jungles of South America, and consequently, there are many things that might frighten or disgust younger readers. Also, Mr. Olson is not the best writer, and his book is not exactly great reading in the purely physical sense, but the content is still very much worth it. For those 13 and up who read it, read all of it. Skip nothing. It is an awesome book that should be read and put on everyone’s reading list.

Bruce Olson's life wasn't and isn't easy. Nobody ever said it would be. But he chose to follow were God led him, and because of that hundreds if not thousands of people will stand with us in heaven. Right next to one more guy who did everything God told him to and persevered.

Ted Bradley

Buy Bruchko

Guest Review on The Valiant Seven

2007-06-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

I have been taking a summer unit on Oregon history. I thought I would read a book on this time period, so I looked on my dusty book shelf and that’s were I laid my eye on The Valiant Seven. The Valiant Seven, written by Netta Sheldon Phelps in 1941, tells the remarkable story of the Sager family traveling by covered wagons on the Oregon Trail from Missouri to Oregon. From what the title describes, there are 7 children in the family, 2 boys and 5 girls.

In their dreadful, long journey the children’s parents die, which leaves them orphans and in the care of a Dutch doctor who is part of their caravan. But not losing hope, each child stands firm and presses on to their destination. With attacks by buffalo, sightings of Indians, and breathtaking moments, this book is not boring in the least. Netta Sheldon Phelps does a fantastic job describing what it was like during that time on the Oregon Trail. I’m from Oregon, so I probably appreciate the book more than others who live out of state.

I learned that nothing can break a real family apart, even when it means losing a family member. These children never lost hope or ever gave up, except for a moment of wishing they would have stayed in Missouri fighting malaria instead of losing their parents on the Oregon Trail.

I would recommend this book for educational and casual reading. The Valiant Seven is definitely a classic. I now know a lot about the Oregon Trail and how much sacrifice it was to take it. When I read this book it made me appreciate my family members more. The chapters are considerably short and easy to read. The book is based on a true story but Phelps adds a little more story line to make it interesting. The Valiant Seven is a must read.

Buy The Valiant Seven

Written by Ben Edmonds from Gresham, Oregon

The Archives of Anthropos

2007-06-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

Good and Evil… Great battles… Epic love stories…
A good fantasy story excites something from within all of us. Fantasy stories are made to be that way. They try to draw you in, make you feel part of it.

I am a big fan of books such as The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. I love the fact that the authors, who were both Christians, instilled Christian morals into the books. Many times I have heard non-christians say how they, “Love Aslan because he is perfect.” I want to shout, “Can’t you see? This isn’t a mythical creature! He exists in real-life!”

I would like to introduce to you, a series of books that may not be widely recognized, but they are still one of the top books on my list. May introduce to you, The Archives of Anthropos…

I was recommended this series of books by my brother and sister. They said it was a great series, and that I would like it. "Yeah right", I thought. They were wrong. I loved it. These were some of the coolest books I had read. I finished the whole series, eight books and all, in three days. Needless to say, I really enjoyed them and ordered my own private collection of them.
Anthropos (like all other magical lands), exists in a different universe. The creatures, are, of course, different from any you might see on earth. Matmon(dwarves), Dragons, Goblins, Talking animals, and Regents roam the wild land.

In the story, there is an all-powerful being, called the Changer, who created this world and all worlds. His enemy, the Abomination, seeks to destroy all influence the Changer might have in the land. On such occasions, the Changer magically pulls people from our own world into Anthropos to assist him in carrying out his plan. I don't wish to ruin the books for you so I won't say anymore. With a cool twist of Chronicles of Narnia, and his own distinct flavor, John White makes the book understandable to young and old alike. I love how clearly White presents the gospel message in the books. One of my favorite parts in the book is when some creatures are asking questions to a man who had seen the Changer:

…"What is he, sire?"
“He is the Unmade Maker, the Beginner without Beginning, the Changer who cannot be changed. What more can I say?”…
“Is he an animal, sire?” Oso asked curiously.
“Animal—no, he is not an animal.”
“A Matmon?” Bjornsluv asked.
“No, not a Matmon either.”
“Is he then a man?” King Bjorn asked.
“Can a man make man? No, the Changer is not a man. He is a maker, the maker of everything that ever was made, a maker made by nobody.”

The quality with which White wrote this series amazes me. He, and his books have not received the attention they so well deserve. Not only does the Changer have a major role in the story, but the Changer’s son, Gaal, dies so that he might have the ultimate victory in the end, a clear depiction of Jesus Christ.

I found these books to be an amazing read. They are sound in doctrine and exciting in content. I give this series five stars!

Buy Archives of Anthropos

Isaac Harris

Guest Review on The Hiding Place

2007-06-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

As part of my history class for school, I read The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom, along with several other books about World War II. I had heard a lot about this book, but never bothered to pick it up and read it, perhaps subconsciously thinking that it was just another sad story about the atrocities that the Jews suffered during that time. After reading it, however, I noticed that there was something radically different about it in comparison to all the other books I read on the subject of World War II.

The first part of the book introduces the ten Booms. They are a closely-knit family. Corrie and Betsie still live at home with their father, while their siblings Willem and Nollie have families of their own. The ten Booms watch in horror at the rising power of Germany and the persecution of the Jews there. Eventually Holland, their home country, is invaded. Jews start showing up on the doorstep of the ten Boom’s watch shop to seek protection, and so the ten Booms get involved in the underground. For a while, they contribute greatly to the cause of protecting the Jews. But then they are betrayed.

The second part of the book tells of Corrie’s experiences in the German concentration camps. She and Betsie have the support of each other, but they must primarily rely on God to carry them through. Corrie relates with saddening clarity the humiliation and trials they must endure. Yet while they have an abundance of hardships, they also experience many instances of God’s blessing. In one incident, Corrie receives a bottle of vitamins. Although she feels like hoarding them exclusively for Betsie, instead, she shares them with the inmates around her. Like the woman in the Bible whose oil jar had no end, Corrie’s vitamin bottle never runs out. That is, until she receives another bottle. Then she can’t get one more drop from the old bottle. God miraculously provided.

So what was the difference between The Hiding Place and all the other books I had read? The answer is that it was the only book that mentioned the possibility of actually forgiving the very people who had perpetrated the brutal imprisonment and death of so many innocent people. While many of the other books I read detailed the self-sacrifice of the people who had helped to hide the Jews during that time, no other book even hinted that the Germans were in need of forgiveness. The prevailing attitude seemed to be that the Nazis deserved to be hated. And perhaps that is what they deserved. But the Christ-like love of the ten Boom family was so great, that they showed mercy even to the ones who had caused them so much suffering.
If that had been all, I may have walked away from the book inspired by Corrie ten Boom’s example, but thinking, “That’s just because she has some sort of special superiority that I don’t. I could never do that.” That isn’t the case. Corrie ten Boom makes it perfectly clear that she is no superwoman. At the beginning of the book she gives this rather unromantic description of herself: “forty-five years old, unmarried, waistline long since vanished.” Not exactly a picture of a heroine. Throughout the book, she is very open about the emotions she experiences—fear, temporary hate for her captors, and discontentedness with her circumstances. It is only because she clings to God that she is able to ultimately have the attitudes that she does. And because she is not perfect, her example challenges me.

Because of the subject matter of this book, I wouldn’t recommend it for everyone. Readers younger than thirteen should probably have one of their parents evaluate the book to see if it is appropriate for them to read. But I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that everyone should read this sometime in his or her life. It really is a powerful, life-changing book.

Written by Joanna DiFonzo from Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Buy The Hiding Place

Humility: True Greatness ~ C.J. Mahaney

2007-06-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

Our culture and media constantly present to us a distorted view of what greatness looks like. They exalt the proud, and are quick to praise those who praise themselves. But God has a different idea of what greatness truly means. He says that he both hates and is opposed to pride, but gives grace to those who clothe themselves with humility (James 4:6, Prov. 6:16-17).

In Humility: True Greatness, C.J. Mahaney gives us a helpful reminder on this important subject and provides us with effective strategies for weakening the pride and strengthening the humility in our hearts daily. This book transformed the way I think about this these two opposites in my life and gave me a fresh perspective on what Jesus taught and exemplified about true greatness. Following are the three most prominent things I learned from this book.

Firstly, I learned that pride is deeply rooted in our hearts and it’s very deceptive in the way it molds our thinking with its lies. C.J. Mahaney points out that when we demonstrate pride in our hearts and actions what we’re really doing is contending with God for supremacy. Pride is always established in a desire for self-glorification. And when we desire self-glorification instead of God-glorification, we are competing for equality with our Creator.

Secondly, I learned about the wonderful blessings of humility and what God promises for the lowly in heart. In Isaiah 66:2 God states “…this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.” From this verse we can conclude that God’s eyes are specifically drawn to those who are humble! He also promises that He will bestow His merciful grace on them. It’s amazing to think the humble attract God’s gaze and receive His grace in a unique and special way.

Thirdly, I learned that no sanctification happens without the power of the cross of Christ. We as humans can never seek true greatness apart from our Savior’s sacrifice. He is source of the grace that we so desperately need in order to serve others efficiently. Mahaney says that without Christ “You would be self-sufficient, seeking to cultivate self-confidence for the purpose of self-glorification.” Needless to say we are hopeless apart from God’s mercy, but because He was willing to give Himself up we are free to follow His example of genuine humility.

I would highly recommend this book and the suggestions its author gives to help you cultivate true greatness in your heart. It’s been a helpful guide to me in my pursuit of this important quality, and I’m sure it will be the same to you.

Samuel Taylor

Buy Humility: True Greatness

Want to Write for Us?

2007-05-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce a change in this blog. From now on, you can write the reviews on great books that you want posted on this blog and we will publish them. Here's how it works:

You decide that you want everyone to know about a book that you think we all can't live without reading. So you write a review as best as you can. Then you send us the review at literaryinkbooks@gmail.com, and we look it over. If we think it needs to be a little more polished we will send it back to you with some thoughts and then you re-write it and send it to us. When we like your review we will publish it with your name on the bottom, and voila! You're famous! Well, okay not really, but a lot of cool stuff could happen.

First, you get to practise your writing skills. Second, if we like your style of writing, we will ask you to keep sending us reviews. So when we get big you can say that you have written articles for us and people will want to hire you like crazy.

This doesn't mean that Isaac, Sam, and I will stop writing. We will still write about half of the articles, we just want to write better and still write the same amount of articles. It also doesn't mean that you get to be part of our team. You will kind of be guest authors.

So you may be wondering about the picture at the top. If you write good reviews as a guest writer, if you can write them fast, and we like your personality, we might invite you to help coauthor Literaryink!

So get writing!

Ted for the Team

The Message Within Watership Down

2007-05-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

When my mom handed me Watership Down for school reading I looked at the cover with slight disgust. Rabbits. Why in the world, I asked myself, would I want or need to read a book about some rabbits with weird names? But, trusting that my mom is wise enough to pick good books for me, I lifted the cover of Richard Adam’s fiction work on a group of rabbits who are searching for a safe home.

I was hooked. Here was a tale of rabbits who knew how to love, and hate. They fought to defend each other; they lived and died with faith in each other. They were true to the end; here was the kind of reading I longed for. Bravery and loyalty were praised and evil was confronted. It was everything I wanted in a good fiction novel; with rabbits. Contained in this story is a message that loyalty to one’s beliefs is right. Even when one is confronted with threats larger than they can overcome.

Watership Down follows a small group of rabbits who leave their home, convinced it is going to be destroyed, and search for a new home at a place called Watership Down. After overcoming hardships on their travels they reach their destination and build a new home. The three rabbits who are main characters (Fiver, Hazel-Rah, and Bigwig) all struggle with anger, doubts, and fear. But they overcome with faith in their “god” and each other. Not in their own strength. This book is not politically correct, which is one reason I loved it.

There is adventure, suspense, danger, love, and loyalty. At the end, after a siege and a final battle between a group of tyrannical rabbits and our heroes, the reader will feel as if they have traveled along with these brave rabbits and accomplished something.

Thankfully, Mr. Adams does not use language, with the exception of a bird who could use a little soap in the mouth once or twice. I strongly recommend this book (like all others I review) for people of all ages as a must read. Watership Down is a classic.

Buy Watership Down

Ted Bradley

Literaryink Buddymap

2007-05-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

We've just launched the Literaryink readership map!

If you are a read of this blog, add yourself to the map. The more the merrier!

Isaac, Ted, and Sam

Welcoming our newest member

2007-05-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

Ted and I are very happy to announce that our good friend Samuel Taylor, will be coauthoring Literaryink with us. Sam is a strong Christian who loves books and writing. He will be a valuable asset to our team. His first post will be published (Hopefully) in the next two weeks. We recruited him because we felt that we needed more writers so that our book reviews didn't have to be so rushed. We hope you will enjoy his reviews as much as we enjoy having him on the team. Thanks!

John Adams, Founding Father

2007-05-01T21:38:00.000-07:00

John Adams, by David McCullough, is one of my favorite books. Within its pages is an exhaustive account of the life of a man who seemed to be always in the background of early American politics. In this book Mr. McCullough does a wonderful job of bringing John Adams into the light he deserves. I will attempt to give an overview of John Adam’s life that I wrote a couple of months ago, then I will talk more about the book itself. As you read remember that each area I speak of is so much more defined and expanded on in John Adams. I merely scratch the surface.

John Adams was possibly the most influential man in early American politics, and one of its hardest workers. Born in Braintree, Massachusetts in 1735 to a family of farmers, John was encouraged by his father to go to school and rise above his humble beginnings. So he studied law. When he finished his study in law at Harvard he moved to Boston were he became one of the capital’s greatest lawyers. But it wasn’t an easy time to work or live in Boston. John’s cousin, Sam Adams, was a member of the Sons of Liberty, which was a group dedicated to the freedom of America. Fighting between the British and the Sons of Liberty was rare, but there were many riots and protests. When one such protest led to the deaths of five of Boston’s citizens, the patriots were outraged. John Adams, although he was opposed to the British taxation and mistreatment, boldly chose to defend the British soldiers in court, and with the famous saying, “facts are stubborn things,” he was able to save all the soldiers from hanging, but two were branded. After that famous case he bought a house in Boston and moved in with his new wife Abigail and continued to pursue law and a little farming. Wanting to do more to help his country he was quite excited when he was asked to be a representative of Massachusetts at the first Congress of the American people. This Congress, which was a direct defiance to England, would gather men from all thirteen states to discuss and debate what to do about British tyranny. Quickly rising in the eyes of his fellow representatives, John Adams was notorious for his quick wit and his keen ideas. While at this congress Adams wrote Thoughts on Government, which was an important piece of literature and was examined by most of the representatives in Congress. After months of debate the representatives finally agreed that independence was needed so Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and two others were chosen to write out the Declaration of Independence. In the summer of 1776, America declared its independence from Britain. Was there anyone who fought as hard for independence as Adams? I can think of two. Only Sam Adams and George Washington had or would work as hard for the American cause as John Adams.

After the war with England began, America required strong allies to assist them in their struggle. Since France was sworn enemies with England, to France they went. In 1779, John Adams sailed to France. Swiftly the committee, which included Adams as well as John Jay and Ben Franklin, signed a treaty with the French and began to search for more allies in Europe. But then everything changed. The war for American independence was over. Signing a peace treaty, the commander of the English forces, General Cornwallis, had surrendered and ended the war. Although the combat was suddenly over, peace with England did not come until 1782 at the Treaty of Paris. Adams was then chosen to be an emissary to the Netherlands since he was one of the few American citizens with diplomatic experience. America needed money. The war had not been cheap. So they borrowed from allies. Actually, John Adam’s house in the Netherlands was the first American embassy on foreign soil. After a few years he was replaced and returned to France were he was involved with the embassy there. Although he enjoyed working on politics he felt like he was unneeded in France and wrote a letter to Congress asking if he could go home. Instead of getting to return home like he had intended, Adams was chosen to be the ambassador to England, a position he did not look forward to with enthusiasm. One benefit was that Abigail had arrived in France to be with him and provided great comfort to his restless life as a diplomat. While in England he was introduced to King George, and like most of the English, the King showed Adams hostility and little kindness. Finally, John Adams, sailed back over the sea to America, it was his fourth and last voyage across the ocean. Arriving in Massachusetts, John and Abigail were given a hero’s welcome. Something Adams greatly deserved and appreciated. They returned to their farm and John Adams settled into the life of a farmer once more. But American history was not done with John Adams.

America was deciding who should be the first President of the United States. Besides George Washington, Adams was the only valid candidate who had a chance of getting elected. As anticipated, George Washington was elected, and Adams became the first Vice President. Actually, the role of Vice President was probably better for Adams. Why? He started debating again. Discussing what the President’s title should be was one of the defining debates during Adams role as President of the Senate. Then, in 1797, John Adams was elected as the second President of the United States of America. After him by less than ten points, was Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson, who was not friends with Adams, was quite disappointed by this turn of events, since he would be under Adams. During Adams tenure as President he chose to keep all the secretaries that Washington had appointed which included Alexander Hamilton, a man who later betrayed Adams. He also appointed John Marshal to Supreme Court Justice, an intelligent choice as John Marshal was a huge figure throughout the early American political 1900’s. When the French began an undeclared war with American vessels it was the Navy that Adams had insisted on creating that helped them fight the French, who soon decided to end the undeclared war. After his successful four years as President he tried for a second term but did not succeed. He then returned to his farm with his wife Abigail and settled down in Massachusetts. John Adams, farmer, lawyer, statesman, writer, ambassador, Vice President and President, was arguably the most influential man in the history of the early United States of America.

John Adams was an excellent book not only for it’s well written content, but also because of the excellent picture the author paints of a man who has weaknesses, believes in God, and works hard. A note, the author is totally on the side on John Adams and down plays his faults. From my reading of different works by other biographers and Adams himself, he (Adams) was a Christian, yet, like us all, a man with faults. He was known to be stubborn and speak his mind loudly. But he was loyal and served his family and country well. Mr. McCullough said in an interview that it takes him four, five, or even ten years to write each book that he works on. It shows in his writing; each of his books (he has many, I will be doing reviews on Truman and 1776 in the future) are exhaustive, but there is warmth to them. The reader will feel about half way through the book like he is there, experiencing what is going on. It's not an exaggeration to say that Mr. McCullough is the greatest living American historian. I heartily recommend this book to people who would like a good read or a good role model. Enjoy.

Buy John Adams

Ted Bradley

Statesman and Saint

2007-04-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

"When I look to the man at the head of the French monarchy (Napoleon), surrounded as he is with all the pomp of power and all the pride of victory, distributing kingdoms to his family and principalities to his followers, seeming when he sits upon his throne to have reached the summit of human ambition and the pinnacle of earthly happiness—and when I follow that man into his closet or to his bed, and consider the pangs with which his solitude must be tortured and his repose banished, by the recollection of the blood he has spilled and the oppressions he has committed—and when I compare with those pangs of remorse the feelings which must accompany my honourable friend from this House (Wilberforce) to his home, after the vote of this night shall have confirmed the object of his humane and unceasing labours; when he retires into the bosom of his happy and delighted family, when he lays himself down on his bed, reflecting on the innumerable voices that will be raised in every quarter of the world to bless him, how much for pure and perfect felicity must he enjoy, having preserved so many millions of his fellow creatures."—
Sir Samuel Romilly on Wilberforce and Napoleon

Some of you may think I am slightly obsessed with William Wilberforce. The rest of you may think that I am majorly obsessed with William Wilberforce. You are both wrong. After the movie Amazing Grace came out, Brett, my older brother suggested that I read this book: a bio on Mr. Wilberforce.

For your understanding, before the movie came out, I knew virtually nothing about William Wilberforce besides that he abolished slavery in the British Empire. This book explains more of the life of this British Parlimentarian.

The author, David J. Vaughan, has been accused of only writing about Wilberforce’s good side. I don’t believe so. David Vaughan writes in response “I displays William’s faults as much as his strengths, but as Wilberforce’s triumph is so great, his faults dim in comparison.”

Vaughan begins by giving a short, eighty-page summary of Wilberforce’s life. He explains how William grew up, his college life, his political life, his love life, and of course, his struggle against slavery.

After the summary, David then talks about the Character of William Wilberforce. Things such as Providence, Religion, and Integrity are talked about. He also talks about Faults for as they say, “Faults he has, as who is free from them?”.

Through this book I learned about his personality, his social life, his struggles, his family, his devotion to God, and many more things. William Wilberforce was used by God to accomplish something great. He is a man who should be emulated by all.

Buy Statesman and Saint

Isaac Harris

A Tale of Adventure and Self-Sacrifice

2007-04-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

In 1904 Sir Henry Rider Haggard, known for his book King Solomon’s Mines, wrote The Brethren, an adventure story set in the months before the Third Crusade. The reader follows two brothers, Godwin and Wulf, as they fight for the life and love of their cousin, Rosamund.

Before Godwin, Wulf, and Rosamund were born Rosamund’s father, Sir Andrew D’Arcy, married Saladin’s sister and took her to England, far away from Saladin, were she gave birth to Rosamund.

Sir Andrew had a brother who died in the Crusade, leaving his two young sons alone with their mother. In time, these three grew up together and were each special in their own way. Godwin and Wulf were both skilled swordsmen, Wulf being the stronger of the two, but Godwin the wiser. Rosamund was a beautiful Saracen princess, the niece of Saladin.

Their lives might have been wonderful and full of happiness if it had not been for two things. One, both Godwin and Wulf loved Rosamund and had asked her to decide between them in a year. The other was that Saladin had sent a letter to Sir Andrew demanding Rosamund be sent to him in Damascus.

Because Rosamund does not want to go to Saladin’s court, he sends some of his men to capture her. After drugging Godwin and Wulf and killing Sir Andrew the treacherous Saracens sail for the sands of Israel.

Godwin and Wulf set sail after the pirates, chasing them to Israel. What follows is an edge-of-your-seat tale that takes the knights through the Middle East in search of the woman they both love. I choose not to reveal the rest of this tale to create suspense and not ruin the plot twists. But I will say that the reader will feel a sense of accomplishment after reading this book.

If you do not appreciate loyalty, justice, and chivalry then this book is not for you. Godwin and Wulf fight together for Rosamund and never betray the other. They remain loyal to Rosamund and protect her from rogue nights and evil chieftains. The author does go into detail when some of the less fortunate characters meet the wrong end of Wulf and Godwin’s blades.

I recommend this classic story to people 12 and up because of some of the incidents Godwin, Wulf, and Rosamund end up in. Overall The Brethren is a must read for it’s excellent portrayal of courage, love, and selflessness.

Buy The Brethren

Ted Bradley

Spread Literaryink

2007-03-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

If you are a reader of Literaryink, and you want to help people find it, then read on. Here are a few ways you can help.

Word of mouth. God gave us mouths for a reason. For eating and talking. There are other reasons, but those are the general ones. Though new technologies like the telephone, IM, email, and more have tried to replace talking, we must admit that talking is the easiest way to communicate. So tell people by talking to them. Family, Friends, Co-workers, Business people, etc. This is the most effective way of spreading the word.

Email. When Ted and I started Literaryink, we sent out an email blast to all our friends. We told them to check out our blog. Quite a few of them still read this blog. Try sending out an email to all your contacts, or at least the ones you feel comfortable with.

Blogosphere. Blogging has become very big over the past years. There are over 60 million blogs wordwide. If you have a blog, website, or Myspace, you can post about us there. Be sure to include a link. This angle is highly effective.

These are just a few ways you can spread Literaryink. We will post about more ways as they become available. Thank you for your support!

Ted, Isaac, and Sam

The First World War

2007-03-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Concord… Bunker Hill… Long Island… Trenton… Cowpens… Yorktown…

For those of us who enjoy studying history these names are more than locations on a map. They are places were our freedom was fought for; places were men gave up their lives so we might live ours in freedom. The American Revolution is packed full of tales about daring fights, last stands, amazing providence, and brave heroes. It’s just the kind of material that would be great historical fiction in the hands of a good author. That’s exactly what Rise to Rebellion and The Glorious Cause, two of Jeff Shaara's books, are.

Mr. Shaara is a renowned writer whose books are full of edge-of-your-seat tension that is heavily rooted in historical accuracy. The 1200 page series begins in the bustling town of Boston, where a young sentry is on patrol in front of the Customs House. Suddenly a group of young men appear out of the hazy winter fog. What follows is commonly known as “The Boston Massacre,” but in reality only five men were killed. Those few shots, fired by a group of soldiers into the angry mob, were the first in a war that would send tremors throughout the world. Some historians call The American Revolution, “the first World War,” as there were battles in Europe and the Caribbean between England and France. Those conflicts are known as the Seven Years War. But, for the most part, the war and conflicts before it was fought in the thirteen colonies over a period of 12 years.

Mr. Shaara uses third-person writing to portray the different people involved in the revolution. Rise to Rebellion covers the Boston Massacre in 1770 to the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The book follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington along with the British General, Thomas Gage. The author does a wonderful job portraying the drama as the members of the first Continental Congress debate over the subject of revolution and liberty. Every few chapters the author will portray the events through the eyes of some lesser known character, including a sentry at the Boston Massacre and a man at The Boston Tea Party. This book covers more of the decisions and debate leading up to the Declaration and declared war. But there are battles, and they come with a startling frequency. To quote the back of the book, “it (the book) reveals how philosophers became fighters, and how ideas became their ammunition.”

The second segment in the series, The Glorious Cause, is completely devoted to the war. Mr. Shaara does an excellent job revealing the greatness of Washington as he fights more with wise decisions and strategy than in full confrontations that would have surely led to disaster. There are moments of excitement, as in the battle of Cowpens, and moments of great peril during Washington’s evacuation from Long Island. During the continuous battles up and down the United States the reader will get a glimpse of what it was like for the men in our first army. At the final battle, Yorktown, an exhausted General Cornwallis is finally forced to give up his sword, and the American forces become victorious.

During this book the reader gets a glimpse of the frustrations of Cornwallis over the, at times, stupidity of his superiors, along with Washington’s own frustration concerning his men’s provision, or lack thereof. Mr. Shaara shows how one of the main reasons that the American cause succeeded was because of the people who were all united with a single cause. Freedom.

I recommend this book to history veterans for its accuracy, as well as to novices looking for an exciting read. A note of caution, as in most military accounts, there is some swearing. Also, General Howe has a mistress, and all of his staff (and the reader) are aware of it. But there is nothing explicit. As you read this book remember that we might not be free Americans if it were not for the men and women who laid down their lives for us and our rights.

Buy The Glorious Cause
Buy Rise to Rebellion

Ted Bradley

Be the Change

2007-03-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

Many of you may have heard of the new movie called Amazing Grace, the story of the man William Wilberforce. Wilberforce was a member of the Parliament of the British Empire, and his goal, was to abolish slavery. I went and watched it with my family on opening day. The movie was an excellent portrayal of a great man.

My brothers (Alex and Brett), authors of The Rebelution, reviewed the movie on their blog. One of the people involved with the movie was a boy named Zach Hunter. After a bit of research, we found out he was a fifteen year-old teen, and he has a message for his generation. Abolish the modern slave trade.

To those who may not know, slavery is still a major practice today and it is just as ugly. It is estimated that there are still 27 million slaves today. There is still secret slavery in the United States.

But back to Zach Hunter.

He started his amazing campaign when he was just twelve. He told his Mom after reading about people like Frederick Douglass, “Man, if I had lived back then I would have done something!” His mother, who was already involved in abolition to some extent, informed him that there still was slavery all around the globe, and he realized that he “couldn’t just do nothing, as if I agreed with it.”

He seemed interesting. Using a trusty search engine (called Google), we found out that Zach had written a book titled Be the Change, so as soon as it came out, we bought it. I got the book and read it in one night (something I would not suggest you do). I was shocked. I was amazed at the fact that someone who was only fifteen wrote such a powerful book. I thought for a little while. That means that he is just as old as Ted. Think of Ted writing a book. Okay I had better stop or I'll scare myself.

After I finished the book, I had to admit that Zach did an amazing job with the book. The design and format was great but it was the simple way that he wrote that made me be able read it so easily and quickly. At the beginning of each chapter, he has some empty space where you write notes and complete the assignment at the end of each chapter.

To start off each chapter, Hunter tells a story about an abolitionist, or a slave, a story that ties in with the message of the chapter. It is ad powerful and interest-grabbing way of keeping the readers into the book. As he writes, he uncovers the horrors and the real life picture of what modern slavery looks like. It will really wake up readers to what is going on outside of their little neighborhood, county, or city stun readers.

He also asks thoughtful, good question that really make you think. Things about confidence, comfort, and how to use influence are on of the many topics he covers.

In closing, he writes that he is not trying to force everyone to become and abolitionist, but to find what their passion is. "If your passion is abolition, good for you. If it's not, that is okay."
We need to find what that is.

He is trying to get the message across to teens that we have a lot more influence then most people think. We can make a difference. It ties in a lot with The Rebelution's message.

As you probably already guessed, I am giving Be the Change two thumbs up. Zach has a powerful message for his generation and to others as well. To learn more about Zach, and what you can do to end slavery, visit http://amazingchange.com/.

Buy Be the Change

Isaac Harris

Eragon: A Book Written by a Teen

2007-03-07T14:19:00.000-08:00

Please don’t get us wrong. We aren’t against fiction. In fact, Ted and I love fiction books. Reading fictional stories is a good diversion from some of the more “useful” materials you read. Fiction is fine as long as you don’t over-read it. Over-reading it is like stuffing yourself on cake and candy and leaving no room for the meat and vegetables. The “cake and candy” should be eaten for dessert. When used that way it provides a sweet treat that you may look forward to.

The book Eragon By Christopher Paolini has been labeled as plagerizing Star Wars (you know, that he is the first of the new line of “Jedi”), and copying Lord of the Rings (Elves, Dwarves, Urgals). The fact is that the basic fiction story includes the “first of some noble race”. As for copying Lord of the Rings, Lord of the Rings covers such a broad area of fiction that it is almost impossible not to “copy” it.

Standing alone without comparing it to any other books you must admit Eragon is an amazing book. Christopher Paolini was only fifteen when he wrote the book.

Eragon… a book of Dragons, Riders, Magic, Good and Evil, Elves, Dwarves, and packed with fast-action fights and slow training.
The story is about a young boy who finds what appears to be a blue stone. Soon it hatches revealing that it isn’t a stone at all but a dragon egg. Chased by an evil king’s followers he must escape with his Dragon and a story-teller called Brom. As they travel across the country they meet many adventures that require the special powers that come with being a Dragon Rider.

I read Eragon when I was 11 years old. I loved it. Actually, I had gotten it for Christmas a year before from my brother but, intimidated by its bulk, I put off reading it till we could match in size. When I did, I was finished in two days. I was shocked and amazed that someone who was only four years older than I could have written such an amazing piece of literature. Definitely a “Do Hard Things” sort of person (and homeschooled too!).

Christopher captured well the struggles of a young boy who had been thrust into a position he had not chosen, but must learn to embrace. A position of danger.

Some people might have a problem with the magic in the books. If so, I can’t really argue but I must say that I don’t. Paolini presents a clear distinction between good and evil magic.

I would give Eragon five stars if it were not for the use of the “B” word several times throughout the book. Paolini makes his characters people who you can really relate to because they aren’t perfect. Nobody is. I really respect the way Christopher took so much advice from his parents and other older and wiser men and woman while writing the book. Note: We do not support the Eragon movie. Ted and I are still wishing and praying that a competent Director will step up and make a good version of the movie.

Buy Eragon

Isaac Harris

Commenting

2007-03-07T14:18:00.000-08:00

The comment section on all the posts is for discussion about the books we review. We would ask that all critiquing and suggestions would be done over email. Please email us at: literaryinkbooks@gmail.com. We do appreciate your suggestions though. Thank you!

Portrait of Dynasty

2007-03-07T14:05:00.001-08:00

Throughout American history there have been few families quite like the Bushes.

So begins the book entitled, The Bushes; Portrait of a Dynasty. Written by Peter and Rochelle Schweizer, it is an exhaustive biography that looks into the lives of the Bush family, beginning in 1880 with Samuel P. Bush. Throughout its 547 pages the authors take us on a journey through the lives and times of the Bush family, ending in 2004 with the reelection of George W. as President of the United States.

From the beginning of the book the reader will learn about the Bush way of living, their hard working ways, and their stand for what they believe in. Since the beginning of their rise to fame in the government and in business they have chosen to put family and faith above their jobs. This book follows not only each famous Bush family member, but also lesser known Bushes like Marvin and Neil Bush, our President's two younger brothers. It looks into the more hidden aspects of this, at times, reclusive family with "over 100 hours of interviews with family and friends."

The authors explain how S.P. Bush made his millions working for Buckeye Steel with the support of the Rockefellers, another powerful family in the early 1900's. George H.W. Bush's grandfather, George Walker, was another wealthy man in the Bush line who made his money through a little luck and a lot of hard work. This book continues to follow in the wake of these extraordinary men as Prescott Bush makes his fortune again through hard work, and some nice connections. He then runs for the U.S. Senate a couple times, finally succeeding in 1952. His son, the 40th President of the United States, George H.W. goes to Yale, becomes a member of Skull and Bones, a secret elite society that has included George W. and John Kerry, to name two. He then, like his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, sets out from under his fathers shadow and in time becomes ambassador to the U.N., Vice President to Ronald Reagan, and, ultimately, President in 1988. His sons in turn forge their own path, Jeb Bush rises to become governor of Florida, and George Bush becomes Governor of Texas and then President.

Throughout their lives at the center of the political and financial world it seems that nothing will make the Bushes place work above family, or faith. I heartily recommend this book not only to people wanting a more in depth account of the Bush family as a whole, but also to readers looking for an enjoyable story of one family's rise to power. A word of caution, there are numerous times where a character will swear; I don't remember the words used because I read the book three months ago but they are there. Also, the authors of the book have an uncanny ability to turn every fault of the Bush family into something that is acceptable. The Bush family is human and, consequently, they make mistakes.

Overall I found The Bushes to be an accurate, descriptive account of our President's many powerful relatives, living and dead. At the end of this book you will most likely wonder, as I did, if the Bush family is done playing their part at the center of American politics.

Buy Portrait of Dynasty

Ted Bradley

#1 Best Seller of all Time

2007-03-07T14:02:00.000-08:00

I searched high and low, at home and on the Internet, for the perfect book to start off the blog with. I was lost. Nothing seemed quite right. I didn't want something political, or fictional. I couldn't stand the thought of writing about a school book, but then I found it. Of course! There it was, sitting with all my favorites, the Bible.

What other book, I thought, has so much impact on what I do each day? The book was inspired by God, and some of the people who wrote it had seen him face to face. It is packed with action, intrigue, justice, and mercy. The ultimate battle between good and evil, and at the climax, the greatest sacrifice for love when Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world (John 3:16). So I decided to start off our list of great books with the greatest book, the Word of God.

Needless to say, this book is a huge aspect of my life. It has shaped everything I stand for. In an age where school teachers and philosophers teach about the "modern" man and tell us there is no difference between right and wrong, the Bible is a rock to cling to. It is, and will remain, at the top of our list.

Note: In the future I will be more descriptive in our book reviews but I personally didn't think I should summarize the Bible in a single post. We would probably need to create a separate blog for that purpose!

Buy the Holy Bible

Ted Bradley

Dipping our Pens in the Inkwell

2007-03-07T13:56:00.000-08:00

"He is inspired, and yet he wants books! He has seen the Lord, and yet he wants books! He has wider experience than most men, and yet he wants books! He had been caught up in the third heaven, and heard things unlawful for a man to utter, and yet he wants books! He has written and major part of the New Testament, and yet he wants books! The apostle says to Timothy and so he says to every Christian, "Give thyself to reading." The man who never reads will never be read; He who never quotes will never be quoted. He who does not use the thoughts of other men's brains proves he has no brains of his own--- Charles Spurgeon

This quote describes the kind of readers Ted and I are. We love books. This blog, we hope, will be a place for you who love to read to be able to come and find edifying, God-glorifying books. If any of you have suggestions of great books please email us at: literaryinkbooks@gmail.com. The reason we say "great" books is because, as a wise friend advised, "there are too many "good" books out there". We want to shine light on the very best material so that you can make the most of your reading.

Literaryink

2007-03-07T13:35:00.000-08:00

You may be wondering, "Why in the world did you make Literaryink?" Good question. One that has a good answer.
Literaryink was created because we were interested in writing about encouraging books we had read and wanted to share them with our friends. Our purpose is to reveal "great" books that help people in some way. The reason why we say "great" is because there are too many "good" books out there. We want to bring you the very best. We won't be writing about the automobile encyclopedia, but we will talk about the books of famous men and women who influenced us. While you read our posts we want you to know that we are all Christians and that will heavily influence the choice of books we write about.

Interested? Click Here!