Monday, January 18, 2010

A Dancing With My Father give-away


I believe it was late summer last year when Sally asked me if I'd mind reading the manuscript of her new book and sending a comment to her publisher.  Mind?  Of course, I would love to read the book.  It wasn't too long until the rather large envelope arrived and I spent many a pleasant evening perusing this new book and sending off e-mails to her such as... This is good... and then, This is very good, and then again... I think this is your best book ever!  :)

As I re-read Dancing With My Father this past weekend, I was reminded why I truly believe it is Sally's best book she has ever written (and she's written a couple of my favorite nonfiction books).  This is a book which all women (and a few men) can read to know "we are not alone"... especially as we are rather battered and beaten at times and find ourselves worn out physically... emotionally... and spiritually.

Sally shares more of her life that I often wondered about, those years ministering as a single woman behind the Iron Curtain, her engagement to Clay, and the journey of ministry as a speaker and author over the years.  It is in many ways, her most autobiographical work.  She allows the reader to walk beside her as she learns to live a joy filled life again in the midst of life's challenges.

A few chapter titles include:
  • The Search for Joy in a Less Than Perfect World
  • A Heart that Dances to Celebrate God's Presence
  • Dancing Through the Twists and Turns of Life
  • Hearing the Refrain of Heaven
  • Exchanging the Drudgery of Duty for the Dance of Delight
  • Listening For the Music of God's Voice

I loved this book and I know it will be one I will re-read many times through the years.  Each chapter includes questions for individuals and groups to use should they desire.  This would be an excellent book to use as part of a Bible study, Sunday School class, or simply a group of women meeting for tea once a week and sharing their heart.

I'll be writing more later this week about my quiet time basket.  This is the kind of book I keep in the basket as "devotional reading"... those books which help me stay focused and grow deeper in my relationship with the Lord... that are written in such a way I can read a little each day (or as I most often do, read the entire book and then re-read a little at a time over a few weeks).

For further information about Dancing With My Father, go to:

Whole Heart Online... here.  Just click on "Our Books".

Sally's Blog is... here.

Now... an announcement for YOU:

The publisher has provided two copies of Sally's new book to give to you!  Just leave a comment on this post and I will draw two names on Wednesday evening.  Yes, two winners will be drawn.  :)

121 comments:

bcsmithereens said...

Thank you for sharing about this book! I think I might look it up. I could use a dance with my Father, it would be refreshing.

Have a wonderful week Brenda!

Anonymous said...

I, too, am looking forward to the release of this book. I think it speaks to a need in my life right now. I don't want to just scrape by, making it through hard times, but rather I want to learn joy in the midst of them.
~Lisa

Renee said...

Oh, I can't wait to read this book! Sally's books are a huge encouragement to me, as a mom, a wife, and a daughter of the King.

Lauri said...

Oh I have heard about this book. Please put my name in the drawing.
God Bless you & your family.
Lauri

Anita said...

I love her chapter titles! It sounds like a very good book to read. Thanks for sharing this with me.

Anonymous said...

WOW! I would love to have this book! Sally's books really encouraged me throughout my home schooling years with her "realness!" Thank you for your wonderful blog- you encourage me with every post. Lovely to find another Goudge fan! Blessings, Dee

Bobbi said...

I was just introduced to Sally's books last year at a homeschool co-op. The 2 I have are wonderful. My favorite Is Seasons of a Mothers Heart. Wonderful giveaway!

Anonymous said...

thank you for your daily encouraging posts, and for the generosity of giving away one of Sally's books - I hope I will be lucky...
Giovanna

Lallee said...

Sally's book sounds wonderful. I would love to put my name in the hat!
♥Lallee

Raquel said...

Wow! Two winners! That is fantastic. This book sounds so good, would love to win. Much love - Raquel XO

Anonymous said...

I am reading The Mission of Motherhood right now. It has been VERY encouraging to me. I would love a copy of the new book! The Clarkson's website and Sally's blog are great!

Have a good Monday
- Kathi

Anonymous said...

I love Sally's books. Thanks for entering my name in the giveaway. (I love your blog too and check everyday for a new post. God bless you!)

deb

Veronica said...

When I first started homeschooling one of the first books I read was Educating the Whole Hearted Child. I've also read and passed on a couple of her other books. I would love to read this one! Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Lovely sounding book! I went to her blog and linked in an article there was the wonderful choir from Cambridge in England singing a song of this nature!

January is a hard month, especially this one, as my kin await the passing of my dad which is imminent. A situation not easy with the mixed feelings we have from a lifetime with him. We do trust our FATHER to make ALL things right!! Perhaps these recent days have provided time for this as he slowly passes.

Lisa said...

I have several of Sally's books and would love to read this one. It has been on my wish list since I heard about it. Thank you!
~Lisa

Debbie S said...

Thank you for all your work on this wonderful blog. I'd love to read Sally's book - you make it sound so good!

Blessings,
Debbie

Joyce Ackley said...

Dancing with my Father sounds like a wonderful book. The cover is so neat.

Please put me in for the drawing.

Thanks and have a great week.

dawn said...

Mission of Motherhood is one of my favorite books! I'd love to read some more of hers :)

Thickethouse.wordpress said...

Brenda, thank you for writing about this book. I look forward to reading it. I'm especially interested in what was meant by "ministering as a single woman behind the Iron Curtain" since I was there (in Hungary) many times in the 70s and nine months in 1984.

Deanna Rabe - Creekside Cottage Blog said...

I love Sally Clarkson's books...this one would be a treat to share with my homeschool co-op ladies!

Nana Trish is Living the Dream said...

This sounds like an excellent book. Please sign me up for the drawing. Her life sounds so interesting just from these tidbits. Great review! trish

Bonnie said...

I would love to read this book. I have heard you refer to her work many times and, I must confess, I have never read any of her books. If I do not win a copy, I will buy one. Bonnie

Vee said...

Very exciting! How cool that you were able to get a preview with the ability to comment. Obviously, you are highly thought of as well you should be. I'm off to see Sally's blog, though I do believe I've been there before a time or two.

Anonymous said...

Sally's new book sounds wonderful! I could use the encouragement from a sister in Christ as our family walks through a time of testing. Thank you, Brenda, for this giveaway! God bless you! Lisa T.

Anonymous said...

I have never read any of her books. In fact, I only learned of Sally through reading your blog. I love the title of this book and would love the chance to read it - the chance to read a new (to me) author.

Laura

Lori said...

I love the title of this book! It brings back precious childhood memories. Thank you for being willing to share it. Please enter me in the contest.
Thank you,
Lori

Little Penpen said...

Yay, a give away! This sounds like a beautiful book... I would love to read it.

Dyana said...

I just love Sally Clarkson and have been awaiting eagerly the arrival of her new book! She is such an encouragement to young mothers... and a voice of wisdom.

Living in Joy is passion :)

Thanks for sharing it on your site.
Dyana

Dyana said...

Thanks for sharing about Sally's latest book! She is a wonderful author and, a great encouragement to young mothers.

Dyana

Jackie said...

This book sounds just like something I have been needing to read! Thanks so much for posting about this and also the possibility of winning one. I enjoy reading your blog...thanks!

Anonymous said...

Yesterday at church we sang a new song which the Lord had recently given to my pastor and it was about 'dancing with God'! Would love to read this book! I read your posts daily and am sooooo blessed.

Dale Ann said...

Reading is my passion. I have to admit I've never read Sally's writings before but would love this to be the first one, especially since you think it is so special. Thanks to Sally for offering these 2 books.

Carina said...

Brenda, it was through this blog that I was first first introduced to Sally Clarkson and her wonderful books to me! (And in a few weeks, I will be attending her conference--so excited!) Thank you!

I would love to win a copy of this book as it sounds as lovely as the others I have read by her!

Sandy M. said...

I love Sally's books and I feel a kinship with you and respect your opinions on books. I'd love to win this!

Blessings to you in this coming week.

Rain said...

I too love Sally. Her words have encouraged me in our homeschooling journey. So glad she has a new book!

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your blog. I am encouraged reading it, and also through you I have been encouraged reading Sally's blog as well as Laine's Letters. I would love to read Sally's new book because I hate to feel like I'm just slogging through.

Angela

Susan Humeston said...

That sounds like a great book - and one I would enjoy a great deal.

Terra said...

Thanks for telling us about this book, it sounds like one I will enjoy reading.
You have a great idea with your "quiet time basket."
A basket with a book like this in it, plus some tea bags, candles, etc. would be a fun gift to put together. Maybe I will do that some day.

Amy said...

This author is new to me and the subject of this book would really speak to my heart at this time. Thanks for the recommendation!

Anonymous said...

I discovered Sally through your blog, and have ordered a couple of her books for myself and my daughters....I would love to have an opportunity to read this book too!

I don't have a blog but if I should be so fortunate to receive a copy you can reach me through email...jcbaumgardner@aol.com

Cathy

Sherry said...

My watchword for this year is JOY, so either I win this book or I buy it. Either way I need to read what Ms. Calrkson has to say.

Sharon said...

Oh this sounds like just what I need to read Brenda!Thanks so much for sharing it with us and please enter me in your drawing!Love and Blessings~Sharon :-)

Dawn E said...

I have never heard of this author, but she sounds very interesting. Thanks for sharing the info about her book.

Sallie @ a quiet simple life said...

Thanks for doing the giveaway!

Scrappy quilter said...

What a wonderful giveaway. Sounds like a awesome book. Hugs

becka said...

I have not read any of Sally's books yet, but would love to after your recommendations. I think everyone could use some encouragement now with all the rather discouraging news in the world lately.

Sarah said...

This book sounds great! Please add me to the drawing.

Blessings,
Sarah

Beth said...

Wow, Brenda. You are so generous to share this book. I would love to be in the drawing for this. Sounds like a good fit for my sort of reading. Thanks

Nell said...

Oh my Brenda. You have no idea what an inspirition you have been to me. I began reading your words about 3 months ago and couldn't wait for the next day then I read all the older words of wisdom. I am quite a bit older than you but my husband and I are going through a very trying time for the past year and there doesn't seem to be a let up but reading some of your thoughts, ideas and really love mesages to your readers kept me going. You probably don't realize what an impact you make on those who seek you out each day. God bless you. Nell

jeanie@mageditor.blogspot.com said...

Sounds like a wonderful book!! I love reading your blog although I don't often comment. I don't have a lot to say but we share a lot of common interests in books and movies. It's fun to see someone else love the things that I do!

Emily said...

Dear Brenda,
I'm currently re-reading Educating the Wholehearted Child, one of the books that was my life saver during our earliest days of homeschooling. Fast forward several years, and many life transitions, and I am ready for Sally's current words of wisdom during this season of my life when I am struggling physically but still homeschooling and mothering and helping my husband. Anything that ministers to me and my walk with the Lord is welcome. Thank you for this! Have a blessed day in the Lord!

Joslyn said...

I'd love a chance to read this book!Sally and her writings are so inspiring and helpful to me.I've really enjoyed your blog,too,Brenda!Thanks for writing it!

Connie said...

I have not read Sally's books but they sound inviting. Please include me in your list to pick a winner from. God bless.

terricheney said...

Hello,

I've just been awarded the Happy 101 Blog award and part of that entails naming 10 blogs that make me happy. I've included you in my lineup. Please go visit my blog:
www. xanga.com/pennyannpoundwise to copy and paste the award to your blog or sidebars. I've really enjoyed reading your blog over the last few months and I'm happy to share your blog with my readers.

Terri Cheney aka Penny Ann Poundwise

Rita said...

I have heard of this book. Please put my name in the drawing. Thank you!

Anonymous said...

I'd love to have a copy. Thank you for offering two!
Mama Martin

Anonymous said...

That sounds like a really good book.I have never read any of Sally's books.But I have them on my to be read list.Thank you for the giveaway.
Monica

Anonymous said...

How wonderful!
I would love to be included in your giveaway!
Blessings
Have a wonderful evening

Heather Anne said...

Wonderful - and so timely! I'll be compiling my birthday wish list soon and books are always at the top - especially great books that inspire or comfort! I hope you are feeling better this week and that you have time to just rest and feel better. the dampness is also getting to me - I just came in from a walk with my boy and desperately need a hot cup of tea!

Unknown said...

The cover on this new book looks so inviting!

Thanks for sharing your review of it.

I, too, love Sally's books.
Deb

CindyR said...

Thank you so much for sharing with all of us the tools we need to make our lives better each day. Your blog is inspirational! I just received an email from one friend and two calls from two separate friends and all three are facing challenging times right now. This book sounds like it might be very helpful to all of us. Thank you!
Cindy

CindyR said...

Thank you so much for sharing with all of us the tools we need to make our lives better each day. Your blog is inspirational! I just received an email from one friend and two calls from two separate friends and all three are facing challenging times right now. This book sounds like it might be very helpful to all of us. Thank you!
Cindy

Anonymous said...

Oh how I love Sally's books! They have been so encouraging to me in my walk as a wife and mother. I have been looking forward to reading this new book since I heard about it!

Thank you so much,
Stephanie

Sharon Lovejoy said...

This sounds lovely and very, very personal. I so love people's stories and this will be intriguing AND inspirational to boot.

You shouldn't have mentioned how you so kindly read her manuscript! You never know, I might work up the courage to ask you to read the middle grade novel I'm working on...

Love,

Sharon Lovejoy Writes from Sunflower House and a Little Green island

Anonymous said...

This is such a timely post...I would love a copy of this book. It's good to be reminded that none of us are ever truly Fatherless who belong to the heavenly Father. My Father has been in heaven for the past seven years. I miss him every day and could sure use a chat with him! Thank you for doing this give-away.
Jen cupoftea@charter.net

Samantha said...

This book has been on my wish list since I first saw Sally mention it on her blog. It seems so very needed, in my life and others!

Sunshine said...

I read your blog daily - I do not think I ever comment - but I LOVE your posts! I am a homeschool Momma of three little ones - well they are quickly becoming not so little anymore :(. I could not pass up the opportunity to possibly win a book from Sally Clarkson! Thanks for doing this - Sunshine

gail said...

Good morning Brenda,
I'd love to enter this draw. Is it OK to enter if you don't live in the US. Thanks for drawing it to our attention. If I'm not lucky enough to win one, I'll check out our Christian bookstore to see if they have it.

Blessings Gail

Unknown said...

I look forward to reading this book -- I love the title! Thanks for sharing about this.

Catherine

Anonymous said...

this book looks lovely, I would love it if you would enter me.
Janet R.

BB said...

Please include me in the drawing for this book. Just the chapter titles are enough to make it sound like a great read. Thank you--- B-)

aleahy said...

That book looks wonderful!

Amy said...

Oh I would LOVE to read a copy of this book!! I haven't read any of Sally's books yet, but after reading your glowing recommendations I have added her to my "wish list".

Amy

Sally Clarkson said...

Wow, Brenda! What an amazing review and what a great response. I feel so honored and yes, I did pick you to review this book because I so respect you and am always encouraged by you, as so many of these other women are. Blessings, blessings to you, my sweet friend, of His joy and grace and goodness!
Sally

Huskerbabe said...

It sounds like a great book, I'll add it to my must read list. That way if I don't win, I won't forget to look for it. :)

Kim said...

Brenda:

I am so anxious to read Sally's new book - especially after reading your wonderful review. Thank you for entering my name in your drawing. Have a blessed day!

Kim

Deb said...

Hi Brenda ~ Thank you for the review and giveaway. I've love to read the book and then pass it on to others. I've never read any of Sally's books.

The Farmer said...

I heard about this book. I love Sally Clarkson. Her books are part of the reason we started homeschooling.

Heather L. said...

I am so excited!!! I can't wait to see this book -- either via winning :) or by hoping that our library obtains it soon. Sally's books have been so encouraging and I've been wanting to read another recently. Thanks again for first introducing me to her work.

Dolores Lynn said...

Sounds like a great book, I would love to read it. I love your blog too! Dolores

Sue said...

Love Sally Clarkson! I have many of her books, and actually got the privlidge of spending an evening with her years ago when I first started homeschooling and she was visiting Pittsburgh. Looking forward to reading this book....it has been a time of refining for me, and a little focus and refreshing would be lovely! God bless!

Lisa Richards said...

Getting in on the drawing! =0)

Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Thank you for bring this book to my/our attention -- I would love to read it --

Dena

Anonymous said...

Hi Brenda,
I too, would love to win Sally's book. Please place my name in the drawing too!
Janet N.

Anonymous said...

I am new to Sally Clarkson and her work. You have mentioned her quite a bit in your blog. It would be interesting to read one of her books.

Thanks--
stephanie

Anonymous said...

I have never read a Sally Clarkson book-but am curious now;)
Love your blog!
~mamabeanof4~

Anonymous said...

Ooooo! How exciting! I would love a copy of this book!

Nicole in MD

Unknown said...

I would love to be inspired and encouraged by Sally's book!

Kellylynn said...

Looks like such a good book!
Would love to read it. Please add me in the drawing. Thank you :o)

God bless,
Kelly Lynn in TX

Lori said...

I can't wait to read this new book of Sally's. I have been so encouraged through the years through her beautifully put words!

Amy @ Amy's FMQ Adventures said...

i've been looking forward to reading this book. please add me to the drawing. love their books!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a great read! I love checking in on your recommendations! This is the time of year that I have a little extra time to read!

holt.jackielou @lockney.isd.tenet.edu

Amy said...

God Bless you and Sally. I am a homeschooling mom and a woman trying to be an "excellent wife" as the Bible calls me to be. Thank you both for all your guidance in blog and book form.

Ridgely said...

Thanks so much for this great review. Even if I don't win the give-away, I'll be latching on to a copy of this book. It sounds like a great addition to my devotionals.

meda said...

I have soooo enjoyed Sally's books; The mission of Motherhood and Season's of a Mother's heart! As a younger mother (at least when I discovered Sally's books -8 or 9 yrs ago) of 3 children, she seemed to write just to me and what I was going through. If you and so many others think this is her BEST book, I have got to get it! So please enter me in the drawing :) ! Thank you so much! and once again.., you have become MY FAV daily blog visit!

Anonymous said...

I have found your web site to be such a wealth of encouragement and godly wisdom. It is wonderful to read the thoughts of someone like-minded. I have especially enjoyed all of the comments about good books. I have added some of these books to my library. Finding new sources like Abebooks.com to add quality reading at reasonable prices has been a great blessing. That you for being a source of information and inspiration.

Blessings,
PAM

Anonymous said...

I'll give this book a try if I win a copy. I am not doing any "dancing" in my walk with God lately and haven't in a very long time. I've actually lost hope that this will ever change. :(
joanna

Steph said...

This is my first time to check in and actually say what a blessing your blog is becoming in my life. It is one of the few that I follow. Having been a lover of good books all my life; I appreciate your insights and heart. They encourage and broaden me. This book which you have just reviewed sounds wonderful. I am currently living overseas and in the midst of a many year (lifelong) journey of learning about love, grace, and joy. Unfortunately I am one of those slow learners, but thankful for Father's patience and timing for me. I am adding this book to my list of ones to look for next time I'm in the states. I am not that familiar with Sally Clarkson, having not homeschooled my children or been in the states that much during their earlier years. Thank you for highlighting this book. Looking forward to your next blog entry.

Kathy said...

I can't wait to read this book! I need more joy in my day to day life! Please add me to the drawing!

Cindi said...

This sounds like a wonderful book. I would love to be included in the drawing.
Thank you for your wonderful postings!
~Cindi

~Bren~ said...

Oooo I would love this book right now. You know how everything seems to crash in at once? That is happening here. One more thing and I am not sure if I can stand up under it! Time for an attitude check!

Courtney said...

Brenda, you and Sally are my two very most favorite bloggers! I enjoyed reading about you reviewing and celebrating her new book, sounds like a very encouraging read. Please put my name in the drawing. Thank you so much!

Marlene Depler said...

This sounds like a fabulous book. It really perks my interest. Thanks for sharing your comments. And put my name in for the drawing!

Irina Guthrie said...

What a wonderful review of Sally's book, Brenda! I wanted to buy this book back in October when I met Sally (and you ;) at Iron Sharpens Iron women, but she said this book wouldn't come out until January. I am so excited about it - I loved Sally's other books that I bought!

Unknown said...

Thank you for sharing your thoughts about this book.
At this time in my life, it sounds very much like a book I would like to read and reflect.
Thanks,
*Becky

Brenda@CoffeeTeaBooks said...

Jackie Mersch - e-mail

The Journey said...

I would love to have a copy.

Queen Bee said...

Hello, I have a bone spur in my heel and a sciatica nerve pain in my leg. I'm in a lot of pain, but the Lord keeps me going. Right now to be very honest I would love to DANCE especially with my Father in Heaven.
Debbie
~*~*~*

Anonymous said...

This book sounds wonderful!

Anonymous said...

Sally is an amazing author and I would love to win this book. Hope you are feeling better, BTW!

GrammaGrits said...

What a wonderful title and chapter titles! Having broken my ankle two weeks ago, I would love to have a new book. This is a time to learn - lots of alone time and listening for His voice. God bless!

GrammaGrits said...

What a wonderful title and chapter titles! Having broken my ankle two weeks ago, I would love to have a new book. This is a time to learn - lots of alone time and listening for His voice. God bless!

Remembrances said...

What a generous offer! This sounds like a wonderful book - one that I would love to read and also share with my ladies at church. Karin
Phi. 4:13

Windy Willows said...

I attended a homeschool conference where she spoke, she was truly amazing! Looks like a wonderful book.
Kim

Anonymous said...

I actually learned about your blog through Sally's blog. I am looking forward to attending her Dallas conference next month and was planning to buy her book then, along with Sarah's new one. And how exciting to see Sharon Lovejoy's comment on here. I love her books, too. Love your blog!!
- Juli

Rachel and Family said...

I would love a copy of the book! I love dancing ;)

Anonymous said...

I love Sally!!! I think she is an inspiration!! What a great tea time book!!I would love to be entered in the drawing. Thank you and God Bless.

Mrs. H said...

Sounds like a great read! I would love to be entered.

Mrs. H

borgerfam said...

I am new to this blog. I have been reading for just a few months. I found "you" when I clicked on a link at Sally Clarkson's blog site. It has been a blessing reading, an encouragement, and I feel like you could be a friend!
I love Sally's books and ministry and would love a copy of this book.
Blessings
Rebecca

Lynn Bartlett said...

I would definitely be interested in reading this book. Sally Clarkson is a neat lady.

Lisa in Texas = ) said...

I would love to be entered into your drawing. This looks like a great book that I would love to read. I think it would be just the book I need on my journey.
Thanks so much,
Lisa in Texas :o)