An increasing apprehension concerning religion’s role in current events characterizes our times. How should we respond to this situation? Wouldn’t it be worthwhile for everyone to think through our Western religions one more time from the beginning? Wouldn’t it be helpful to seek an understanding of the situation that is inclusive, objective and fair-minded? 

Any study of Western religion’s various sacred works will uncover a number of scriptural passages that are open to criticism. In fact, some of these passages are still being used to rationalize criminal, political behavior. In the 21st century, how should we evaluate these problematical passages? Are there alternative ways of responding to the scriptures that are more appropriate for our troubled times? Can we promote ways of thinking that are less militant and more intelligent?  “Comparing and Evaluating the Scriptures” can help readers find their own answers to a number of worrisome religious/political issues..

About the Author:

Paul Fink is a retired philosophy professor who, for 33 years, taught college courses in logic, moral philosophy, and comparative religion. Early in his career he authored two textbooks: “The Challenge of Philosophy,” 1965, and ”Moral Philosophy: An Introduction,” 1977. Born in Illinois as the oldest son of a conservative Christian Minister, Fink was guided through an in-depth study of the Bible. In this book, he undertakes a broader study which includes all the main scriptures of Western religion. The sacred works of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Mormonism are opened to an orderly, even-handed comparison and assessment. Many questions are posed, and readers are encouraged to think for themselves in their efforts to attain an honest, mature overview of our religious heritage.

"Joyful Soul Cleaning" is the much-anticipated second book of the Soul at Home Trilogy.  In "Living the Soul Dolce Vita" the author showed readers how to clear out the clutter in their homes to make more room for their soul.  Now the author takes readers on a soul cleaning journey to gain a cleaner home and more soul awareness.  A clutter-free and clean home issues an invitation for huge soul participation.  Let your soul R.S.V.P. NOW!

"Davey and The GOM (Giant Oil Monster)" by James "Bud" Bottoms. The author of the "Kid Ethics" books now brings us a beautifully illustrated story about a young boy's efforts to overcome the fearful Giant Oil Monster and save the environment along with his animal and ocean friends. This book will be an inspiration to all young children who share a concern about keeping our world clean and fighting for what is right.

Bud Bottoms is a world renowned sculptor, and father to four actor sons.

“Promises Kept” by Rick Farren is the story of Garrett Burns, a young homeless man caught in the unrelenting grip of his addiction. The story profiles his struggle and sacrifices attempting to overcome his demons. Garrett’s life had spiraled out of control since becoming estranged with his father and leaving home during his teenage years causing him to bounce from back alleys, to rooming houses and shelters.

Although set in the 1970’s it is a contemporary story portraying the troubles of our society while demonstrating the resilience and resourcefulness of the individual soul. Inspired by an unlikely minister, the prospects of a steady paycheck, and an introspective young woman, Garrett perseveres to find himself and conquer his demons while at the same time attempting to mend his family relationships. Eventually, through a near tragic event he discovers the meaning of a salvaged soul.

"The Mountain Boy" is a wonderful children's story about a young boy and his love of nature. The first in a series of books by author Christina Pagés, this book has lovely illustrations painted by artist Jeannette Caruth which enrich the fascinating lessons learned by the main character, Joshua. His unique ability to interact with all forms of nature is both endearing and educational for young readers.

Christina Pagés, who teaches composition literature and poetry at a University, has been writing plays and poetry for years and has just begun to write children's books.

- Leon E. Panetta, Former Presidential Chief of Staff

I really like the unconventional, entertaining, educational approach taken. If all parents gave these books to their children, we would have a much more civilized society. Thank you for doing this for our species.

- Jean-Michel Cousteau, Ocean Futures Society

"Kid Ethics" brings together inspiring stories, great illustrations and thoughtful questions. The lessons in this book will help parents and educators integrate ethics education into daily activities. It's a workbook designed to assist children in decision-making skills and in taking steps toward becoming successful citizens in today's world.

- Congresswoman Lois Capps

"The Nature of Woman" by Deborah Lee Davis. This beautiful hardcover book of photography gives visual and poetic tribute to the spirit and earthiness of womankind. The author's choice of the deep and stirring subject matter, her keen eye for the subtleties of spirit revealing itself in every day moments, conveys her profound love and appreciation of humankind. Her selection of photos emerging from this appreciation of human beings and their plight is informed as well by the author's great respect for nature, animals, the mountains and the elements. This book celebrates woman, and womankind in general, in its beautiful choice of faces, stories, poetry and images. These photographs will speak for themselves, as they touch the reader in long forgotten places.

"We're learning that we no longer have to age as our mothers or our grandmothers did. We can take control of our health and remain vital until the last day. Joan Frentz has written a timely book that offers us new choices. All women will benefit from 'Life Begins@Sixty'. Get moving!"
          -Louise Hay, author of "You Can Heal Your Life" and "Empowering Women"

"Life Begins@Sixty" is a prescription for how to live long and well at any age -- but particularly after 60. Joan Frentz's advice is right on the mark!"
          -Christiane Northrup, MD, author of "Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom" and "The Wisdom of Menopause".

  "The strength of this book lies in relating to the kind of deep-down feelings and challenges we women face every day: taking up the treadmill yet another time or eating a decadent hunk of chocolate because there was no hope. It was comforting to know that I am not alone. "Life Begins@Sixty" is not just for women over sixty. It's for every woman who has bought new clothes because the old didn't fit any longer. It's for every woman who has been on every single diet on earth. It's for every woman who knows she has to get out there and start living better but just hasn't been able to." 
              -Magai Pitchai, Literary Editor

James C.  Boyce is an instrument maker and repairman who gives his personal advice on the purchase and care of a fiddle, and includes his observations on the mystique of the instrument. This book relates how he fell in love with the fiddle, learned to play it, and began to teach others to play it.  

 “Falling in Love With the Fiddle” is designed for people who never learned to read music, and also for those who do read music but want to get “off the page” and play music by ear.

This book contains an aural learning program for the beginning fiddler, teaching how to hold the fiddle and bow, and to play the sounds that you  hear.  The AudioTab CD will help you learn how to tune the fiddle, and how to play three simple tunes on it.  Ultimately, the book and CD will help you learn to play the “sounds” of the fiddle.

“Hoover’s Summer Tale” is a delightful children’s story. Hoover is a special guest who brings joy to the mother and daughter whose lovely garden he visits every day.  Parents and grandparents alike will have just as much fun reading this story as the children will have while listening to this little fellow’s everyday adventures.

        The first of many new Nancy Lee books, “Hoover’s Summer Tale” is sure to bring a smile to every child’s face.  A terrific bedtime story!

“Eliza’s Wish” is the third book in the Dickey Denton series. It’s the story of Dickey Denton and the mystery he and his friends uncover at Rocky Neck Lighthouse and the Josiah Wheeler mansion. Spurned on by his vivid imagination and his need to discover the truth about the woman who walks the widow’s walk, he seeks guidance from his grandfather.

Reluctant at first to give in to Dickey’s wishes, Grandpa eventually relents and suggests he seek advice from the spirit of his great-great-grandmother, Eliza Tuffett. Unsure of what to expect, he summons up his courage and decides to risk it.

With the help of his friends, they embark on the adventure and their curiosity takes them back to Rocky Neck Lighthouse and to the haunted Josiah Wheeler mansion on a mysterious journey they’ll never forget.

If you and your children enjoyed reading about Hoover’s adventures on Cape Cod two years ago ("Hoover's Summer Tale"), you will certainly enjoy reading about all of the comical adventures that “Hoover’s Funny Little Kids" had this past year.  They are quite the little characters to watch.  There is never a dull moment when they are scurrying about.

“Hoover’s Funny little Kids” is a continuation of Hoover’s visits to the lovely backyard garden where he grew up.  It’s another terrific bedtime story that will make you proud you live on Cape Cod.  We hope our visitors will enjoy their vacation in our quaint town.

"The Secret of the Lighthouse" by Rick Farren (a sequel to "Grandpa and the Pirate") is the tale of 11-year-old Dickey Denton and the secret he uncovers at Rocky Neck Lighthouse. From his Grandpa, Dickey learns the story of a brave and mysterious young woman whose spirit inhabits the lighthouse and the meaning of the bright light in the window. Grandpa produces the woman's journals that relate her fascinating adventures as she traveled the world, and about the man she married who changed her life. Inspired by these stories, Dickey and his friend decide to investigate the lighthouse to see if her spirit really does exist. They eventually muster up their courage, only to be frightened beyond belief by their discovery. Dickey eventually learns the startling truth from his parents regarding the impact the young woman had on their family.

Nancy Lee, the author of "Hoover's Summer Tale" and "Hoover's Funny Little Kids" now brings you "Baby Chipmunks and Backyard Friends."  After introducing us to Hoover, a chipmunk who reminded the author of a tiny vacuum cleaner as he devoured the seed she left out for him, Nancy gave us a wonderful second story about Hoover's funny kids. 

In this third story, Nancy and her Mom relate stories about Hoover, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren!  In addition, many wonderful other backyard friends are interwoven into the story, making "Baby Chipmunks and Backyard Friends" a delightful story to read with your young child.

"Grandpa and the Pirate" is a captivating story about a boy and his grandfather who are stranded on a deserted island.  The young boy learns valuable lessons about life and survival, and at the same time is fascinated with his grandfather's tale about a pirate whose spirit still stalks the island at night.  Wide-eyed awestruck listeners and adventure-seeking readers, alike, will quickly become engaged in the experiences of Dickey and his grandfather.  "Grandpa and the Pirate" will capture children's imaginations, while reinforcing positive values and skills development.

        Enjoy the latest adventures of the chipmunks in this fourth book in a series by Nancy Lee! The stories are purposely told in a light-hearted, funny manner.  As adults, we all know that a lot of “bad things happen to good people.”  If children are exposed to more good things than bad, Nancy believes they have a better chance to become adults who are capable of caring, protecting and respecting themselves, their friends and most important, their families. 

NOTE: 100% of sales from this book are donated to a fund for Dylan Hartung, a young boy suffering from Neuroblastoma (for more information, see http://www.dylanhartung.net/). Thank you for your support!

"Discovering the Miracles and Mysteries Within You: A 30-Day Workbook", by Lori Crawford

Just as we have physical excess baggage, we also carry extra emotional baggage. The goal of this Workbook is to assist you in letting go of your emotional baggage. Many times our physical weight is related to our emotional state of being. For example, a person who is frustrated and angry will eat to relieve stress, thus adding more weight to the physical body. There is no reason to carry around all that extra emotional baggage. We get stuck in our day-to-day lives, accepting the “way it is” without ever questioning “what am I doing?” or asking ourselves “is this how I want to be?”

You will learn how to open up your emotions and, with the assistance of God, release and let them go. This process allows you to be the person you were intended to be, and hopefully, to live a life full of peace, happiness and joy.