Monday, March 30, 2009

Recommendations from Ellen

LDS books:

Infinite Atonement by Callister
Probably the best book I have read concerning the atonement. It is not an easy read, but it left me with a better understanding and a profound gratefulness for the Savior's atonement.

The Bonds That Make Us Free by Terry Warner
If you enjoyed The Peacemaker, you will enjoy this book that inspired it. This book deals with human relationships and how to become more Christlike.

Counting Blessings by Kerry Blair
My daughter, Melissa, read this book and enjoyed it. It is a short fun book with a good message for LDS women.

Other books:

The Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali
This book was written by a former Muslim that was raised in Somalia. It tells of a very difficult childhood and her experiences as a Muslim. She later immigrated to the Netherlands and became a member of Parliament. After leaving the Muslim faith, her life was threatened and she was forced into hiding. This book contains some true experiences that might be a little shocking such as the circumcision of little girls. I felt like this was a worthwhile book in spite of these descriptions.

Escape by Carolyn Jessop
I imagine that many of you have already read this book. I read it two times because it was so unbelievable! Jessop tells her story as a member of the FLDS church and as a wife of Merrill Jessop. Surprisingly, this book is available at Deseret Book! It is a detailed account of polygamous life in Southern Utah. This book would make for a great discussion!

Gifted Hands by Ben Carson
It is a biography about an African American boy that became a brain surgeon. It is an inspiring story about a boy raised in the ghetto by a mother that encouraged him to read and get an education.