Birth Without Violence

by Frederick LeBoyer
Available from Amazon
***

Although the author draws heavily on Eastern philosophy and is rather dramatic for shock appeal, I appreciated many of the subjects he examined. It is obviously kinder not to mention more natural to have soft lighting, and gentle voices at a birth. I appreciated the anatomical details of why the cord should not be cut immediately after birth, as well as the comments on the handling of newborns. The photos of newborns are very precious.

This book is certainly appropriate for expectant parents, especially if they have had no exposure or information on natural childbirth. Just take all the drama and philosophy with a grain (or more!) of salt.

Mr. Pipes Comes to America

by Douglas Bond
Available from Amazon
*****

The third in the Mr. Pipes series can only improve upon the first two. Mr. Pipes travels to New England with Dr. Dudley to see a few historic sites with Drew and Annie before heading to the west coast to spend Christmas with their parents. The humor that amused the readers in the first two books hasn’t disappeared, nor has Dr. Dudley’s disdain for things not British or his overbearing concern for Mr. Pipes’ health. The storyline is just as charming, and children will read it for the mere pleasure of it.

However, the main ideas that are constantly reinforced are Godly behavior, understanding and sharing the Bible, contrasting good hymnody and shallow songs, appropriate music, poetry, great men of faith, and doctrine. Mr. Pipes teaches an excellent course on great Church hymnody effortlessly and very enjoyably to all readers. Highly to be recommended!

A Lantern In Her Hand

by Bess Streeter Aldrich
Available from Amazon
**
This is the story of a young girl who dreamed big dreams and had great hopes of her life. Instead of her life fulfilling her dreams, however, she spent her days baking bread, piecing quilts, and taking care of children. Her children eventually accomplished the great things Abbie had hoped to do, but they seemed to care little for the life Abbie herself had led. It was a disappointing book for me, but it aptly brought to life the hopes and dreams of a young girl, and how real life prevents her from living her dreams. It did inspire me to analyze my dreams, to see if they are realistic, and to consider whether God might have other plans. Good dreams may need to be exchanged for what is best for us.