Ilene Cooper

How God Became Jesus

Apologetics

“This book, while putting forth arguments well worth examining, is weakened by the fact it contains five voices, and dry, scholarly ones at that. Ehrman has mastered the art of writing in a style suitable for general audiences, making his book more accessible.”

The Door Within

Fiction

“The first in a projected trilogy begins in Aidan Thomas' new home; his family has moved to help his ailing grandfather. Aidan is unhappy about almost everything, but life really turns upside down when he discovers several ancient scrolls in his grandfather's basement. In short order, he finds himself opening "the door within"; on the opposite side is a world of noble kings and treacherous knights, and the inevitable struggle between good and evil. In the frame story about sacrifice and redemption, Batson has borrowed from C. S. Lewis, but the book's Christian overtones are not nearly as well woven as those in Lewis' work. There's plenty of fantastical adventure tethered to right and wrong here, and Aidan is a likable enough hero, though he seems more like a boy of 11 or 12 than the high-school kid he is. The writing is often workmanlike, but many readers will want the book for its religious core.”

Undaunted Student Edition

Children & Youth

“In this student edition of Caine’s 2012 adult book of the same title, the author brings her professions and expressions of faith to a younger audience. Starting with shocking incidents of human trafficking (she and her husband started the antitrafficking organization A21 Campaign), she moves on to the hardships in her own life. Abused during her childhood, Caine ties together her own fears and disappointments with the larger idea that God is near enough to protect, guide, and love, no matter what the circumstances. Throughout, biblical verses bolster Caine’s points, and each chapter concludes with a Thoughts section, which invites readers to think about themselves and their issues in new ways. The book finishes up with a powerful idea that may shake more than a few readers: teens should listen to God’s voice within and find ways to change the world around them. (In cases where stepping up would disrupt one’s life, she does suggest that individuals should seek counsel.) A religious call that will intrigue many. Grades 9-12.”