The Brave by Hayley and Michael DiMarco

A book written for teens on how to conquer fears that hold you back. Are there fears that don't hold you back?

The DiMarco's are very up front with the struggles they both have gone through. This is refreshing in a society of fake perfection people.

Inside you will read five chapters that describe characteristics of someone who's brave. These chapters touch on:

Having faith
Fearing the right thing
Knowing the truth
Knowing pain
Conquering your fear

They dish out the prerequisite amount of biblical examples and verses but, in the end, I felt like most of the arguments stemmed from the idea of, "just tough it out kiddo and you'll see that everything is a-ok"

While this is accurate for many fears (such as fear of flying or public speaking) there are some fears that no amount of "toughing out" will conquer. This mentality from the DiMarco's was disappointing.

I don't want to get into an argument about this post-modern, "victim" mentality but there are some honest-to-goodness fears where it would only make things worse to tell the person to knuckle down and grin and bear it.

This book was provided for review, at no cost, by Baker Publishing Group

UnStuff by Hayley & Michael DiMarco

Does it feel like you have so much stuff? Could it be that you value the wrong things?

The DiMarcos try to help us UnStuff in their new book about making room for what really matters.

This book is 6 sections full of ideas and personal stories from the authors as to how they experienced a releasing of their stuff. These sections include:

"Wallet Stuff" which includes work, paying bills, shopping, and all things financial.
"Mind Stuff" talks about instant gratification, depression, drama, worrying about what others think.
"Body Stuff" is all about eating and weight issues and fatigue.
"Love Stuff" delves into sexual addiction, being selfish or lonely, and how giving can replace love.
"Worship Stuff" includes wanting to be comfortable, not praying, reading the Word or just being lazy.
"Future Stuff" talks about avoiding certain triggers, living within your means and learning to rest.

There is so much writing that takes place on the pages that if feels like you have ADD. It shouldn't take you very long to read, and the rewards will unclutter your life.



This book was provided for review, at no cost, by Tyndale Publishing.