Book Review: In a Pit With a Lion On a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson

In a Pit With a Lion On a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars
by Mark Batterson

Multnomah Books, 2006

Submitted by Diane Busch

This book is on my list of all-time favorite books! I underlined so many great nuggets. It is based on a scripture passage in 2 Samuel 23:30-21 which is about Benaiah who instead of running away from a lion, chases it into a pit and kills it.

You will be challenged to chase your fears instead of running away from them. You learn more about who God is, about yourself, about spiritual maturity, and about the "big picture".

Mark Batterson discusses regret. He says we will have more regrets over what we haven't done or tried in life, than we will have over things we tried that failed. He adds a good section on prayer as well.

I recommend this book to anyone in any stage of life.

Book Review: The Starbucks Experience by Joseph A. Michelli

The Starbucks Experience : 5 Principles for Turning Ordinary Into Extraordinary
by Joseph A. Michelli

McGraw-Hill, 2006

Submitted by Diane Busch

An excellent book for leadership. This book is challenging for the entrepreneur and "feel good" for the Starbucks customer.

Starbucks is an exemplary company in so many ways. It is such an inspiration. Starbucks attempts to treat customers with fantastic customer service. They give to their communities in innovative and generous ways.

This book includes discussion questions and "food for thought" prompts throughout, plus five pages of discussion starters in the back.

Book Review: A Day With a Perfect Stranger by David Gregory

A Day With a Perfect Stranger
by David Gregory

WaterBrook Press, 2006

Submitted by Diane Busch

A short novel written in first person by a woman who meets a man one day on two of her airplane flights. He is kind and gentle and helps her think through her life and problems--to be able to open her mind to the possibility of Jesus and his love, forgiveness and salvation. The man turns out to be Jesus himself in modern day. This may be a good book to give to an unbelieving friend.

Book Review: Dear God, They Say It's Cancer by Janet Thompson

Dear God, They Say It's Cancer
by Janet Thompson

Howard Books, 2006

Submitted by Diane Busch

Any woman on a breast cancer journey would benefit from this book. It is full of information, prayers, scripture verses, and other women's stories. It includes places to journal your thoughts, places to record your journey and your questions. This book helps you feel like you are not alone on this journey.

Book Review: You Don't Need a Title to Be a Leader by Mark Sanborn

You Don't Need a Title To Be a Leader : How Anyone, Anywhere, Can Make a Positive Difference
by Mark Sanborn

WaterBrook Press, 2006

Submitted by Diane Busch

A wonderfully inspirational book, not just for leaders, but for any of us who want to improve the world around us by being a blessing to others. The book is broken up into three parts: Part I: A Leader is...; Part II: The Six Principles of Leadership; and Part III: Making a Positive Difference. The Leadership Action Points at the end of each chapter in Part II are especially helpful and motivational.