BOOK REVIEW: My return to reading Max Lucado wasn’t disappointing …

I consider pastor and famed author, Max Lucado, to be a master story-teller. He has a great gift for illustrating biblical truth, coupled with keen biblical insight.

That usually makes for good reading.

But …

,,, yes, for me personally, there was a “but” that came with that. After reading many of Lucado’s book, I actually found myself tiring of the same style of writing, even though it was routinely high quality.

I think for myself, I had just reached a certain “fill” of what the author had to offer. And he has a LOT to offer! The inside back sleeve of his books trumpet the amazing fact that Lucado has more than “130 million products in print”! With such a vast array of material, it can be understandable that a person could reach their “fill” of such a prolific author.

With that said, after a long sabbatical from Max Lucado books, a new release from the author captured my attention, so I waded back into Lucado Land, and I wasn’t disappointed.

“Trade Your Cares for Calm” (published by Thomas Nelson) was my re-entry into Lucado’s writings, and it was a good reminder why the author’s works are referred to as “products.” This small book is beautifully designed, easily valuable as either a gift book or coffee table decoration. With its glossy pages flowing with photos of beautiful landscapes and thematic artwork, it is as much a “product” as it is a small, square-shaped book.

All of that doesn’t diminish the written content that fills the pages. Lucado spreads the interior of the book with effective illustrations of biblical truths and sharp biblical insights on a very timely topic – how to trade our cares — stress, anxiety, worries — for the calm God offers us. His teaching is followed-through with introspective questions and guidance for personal journaling; including this activity engages the reader in seriously digging into this topic to gain some personal and positive outcomes.

Don’t let the pretty square book that looks like it should be room decor fool you. If you’ve been struggling with a lot of anxiety and a lack of peace, “Trade Your Cares for Calm” is worth your time to engage in. Then, when you’re done, it will look nice on your coffee table!

Scotty

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”