Unsung Hero (The Inspired By Soundtrack)
By for King + Country
Reviewed by Paul Delger
Brothers Luke and Joel Smallbone of the duo for King + Country place their signature stamp on some Christian contemporary classics and include some new songs on Unsung Hero (The Inspired By Soundtrack), the companion to the popular movie with the same name. Listeners will hear favorites such as “You’re the Voice,” “Place in This World,” “To Hell With the Devil,” and “Lead Me On.” New songs include “Checking In,” “Crazy,” and a stunning ballad titled “You Make Everything Beautiful,” sung by the Smallbones’ sister, Rebecca St. James. The album features an impressive guest artist list besides St. James: Michael W. Smith, Lee Brice, Lecrae, Stryper, Amy Grant, Sleeping at Last, and Hillary Scott. This recording has an irresistible sound and the bonus of good memories of retro Christian contemporary music. (Curb Records)
Scamanda
Reviewed by Kristin Parker
I enjoy listening to true crime podcasts, but sometimes I need something that leaves me fascinated by an individual’s actions.
Cue Scamanda, which uncovers the story of Amanda C. Riley, a Christian mom and blogger whose cancer journey captured the hearts (and wallets) of her community. The podcast, hosted by journalist Charlie Webster, shares Riley’s story of living with cancer, which quickly takes a turn when investigator Nancy Moscatiello gets an anonymous tip that Riley is faking her diagnosis. The eight episodes take you through the investigation from start to finish as the IRS investigates Riley and uncovers a web of lies.
With impressive production quality and a well-balanced mix of interviews, readings, and sound effects, the podcast creates a dynamic listening experience.
A Plate of Hope: The Inspiring Story of Chef José Andrés and World Central Kitchen
By Erin Frankel, illustrated by Paola Escobar
Reviewed by Sonya VanderVeen Feddema
Chef José Andrés knows that food is never just food. It is always connected to memory and home. When Andrés moved to America, he took to heart the first words of the preamble to the U.S. Constitution: “We the people.” “Not ME,” Andrés thought; “WE. Everyone deserved a hot meal. Not just the few, ... but the many.”
When Andrés became involved in food preparation for people affected by natural disasters, his vision expanded. “No one should ever go hungry,” he says. “I want to help feed the world.” The name he gave this dream? World Central Kitchen.
Illustrator Paola Escobar’s cheerful, hopeful illustrations complete Erin Frankel’s narrative by capturing the nourishing outcome of Andrés’ magnificent vision. Christian readers will find an example of the fulfillment of Jesus’ command to feed the hungry. (Random House Studio)
The Lowdown
Nourish and Flourish with Bookish Stars: From The Banner’s Mixed Media editor Lorilee Craker and co-author Jenny Williams, Eat Like a Heroine asks (and answers), “What can our favorite classic book characters and authors teach us about relishing the food we eat, cook, and serve?” Available online in the U.S. through Amazon or select retailers and in Canada through Endgamepress.com.
Faithful Politics: Miranda Zapor Cruz argues that Christians who share very similar faith convictions can arrive at different political conclusions. There are, however, principles from Scripture and theology that should inform our thinking and remind us that our ultimate citizenship is in the kingdom of God. (IVP Academic)
Highly Anticipated Season 2: In Tracker, starring Justin Hartley, lone-wolf survivalist Colter Shaw roams the country as a reward seeker who uses his expert tracking skills to help private citizens and law enforcement solve all manner of mysteries while contending with his own fractured family. (CBS, Oct. 13)