The Noticer

The title and the cover of this book drew me in right away. I knew it was something I wanted to read. And I am glad I read it. Andy Andrews' book The Noticer is a very easy read, and as I was reading, I wanted nothing more than Jones, the main character, to be my best friend.

The book is about the people of a small town and a man who comes in to this town and changes all of their lives, simply by noticing them and caring about them. He teaches them how perspective is everything and shows them that by changing their perspective, they can overcome their problems and become the people that they want to be.

I finished this book in an evening, but it's not because I was dying to know what happened next. The story jumped around a lot, and unlike some stories that do this, it never really came together in the end. And by the way it is written, I am not sure if the main character is supposed to be Andy or Jones. I love short allegorical stories. This one wasn't bad, but I am sure it's not one I will ever read again. Overall, the character of Jones is one the reader immediately identifies and loves. It’s just too bad the rest of the book didn’t follow as well.

Take Your Best Shot

I just finished reading the book Take Your Best Shot by Austin Gutwein and Todd Hillard. I was initially drawn to this story after learning that it was written by a 14-year-old boy who decided to do something to make a difference. The story is written to teens but should be read by everyone. It's a very easy read about a boy who followed his heart and used his passion to allow God to work through him to touch the lives of tens of thousands of people.

I was immediately drawn in to the story and wanted to know how Austin was able to start something so big. (However, in the first chapter, the cynic in me came out when I read that he was a member of Rick Warren's - of Purpose Driven Life - church. I thought, "well there ya go, he has connections and that's how he was able to do this and get a book published about what he's done. But I kept reading anyway and I am glad I did. Although I am certain that knowing Rick Warren didn't hurt, especially in his book publishing endeavors, it seems that knowing God was what brought this boy true success.)

Anyway, I enjoyed reading of the inspiration and the work and the joy that came from Hoops of Hope. As a homeschool mom, I plan to use the book as curriculum for my 13-year-old son. I love the short, easy chapters and the questions at the end of each chapter, which also incorporate verses from the Bible. I know that this book got me to thinking about things I can do to change my corner of the world, even if that's just by changing my relationships with the people I am in direct contact with. I can do my part and support those around me in doing theirs. Overall, I give this one a thumbs up, especially for teenagers who might need a little encouragement and reminding of how much they matter and what a difference they can make if they let God use them.