Non-fiction books have changed my life as a Christian, a wife, and a homeschooling mom.

I can look back at my life at times when I’ve made big decisions and big changes, and the cool thing is that I often can connect a self-help book to those transformations. I’ve learned about being a praying wife, a godly servant, a better teacher, and a bold witness to the gospel . . . through the pages of books.

Finding the Helpful in Non-fiction

• Not all self-help books are helpful, but if you find one that speaks truth to your heart here is how to get the most out of that book:
• Begin in prayer. Ask God to guide you to the truth.
• Skim the book. Do a quick flip through and note the diagrams and chapter titles. This will help you get an overview (and an excitement!) for the journey ahead.
• Read each chapter and underline key thoughts. Yes, it’s OK to write in your books, I promise. Underline the things that jump off the page. “Aha!”
• Take time to pause and reflect. Consider how this applies to YOU (not your spouse, your child, or your friend).
• Write your “Aha!” ideas and reflections in a separate notebook. Jot down action steps or ideas that will help your day-to-day life.
• Chat with a friend about what you’ve learned. Ask your spouse’s thoughts and share yours. Talk about your “Aha!” ideas with friends. Blog about them if you like! The more you communicate and teach others, the better you’ll learn yourself.

Read the rest of my tips and get some non-fiction recommendations HERE!

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A Christmas Gift for Rose just released! Rose turned her back on the man she loves after he assisted the Englisch during World War II—only to discover she’s an Englischer herself. Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But she is overwhelmed by self-doubt when she learns that she was born Englisch and abandoned when her family moved West in search of work. Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind—Englischers? When the man she loves leaves her behind, Rose is certain he left for good. Yet Rose discovers sometimes our greatest gifts are the ones we fear.