Books from the Banner Desk

A number of noteworthy books come our way that we don’t have time or space to review. The following titles come from writers who have a connection to the Christian Reformed Church.

A Baker’s Dozen by Nick Ringma
Addiction counselor Nick Ringma gives “glimpses of hope and rays of light for the road” in his book of reflections on the recovery journey. Writing in both prose and poetry, he offers wisdom, encouragement, and prayers for those who share that road. (Xlibris)

Minutes of the Christian Reformed Church edited by Janet Sjaarda Sheeres
Church history buffs may want to check out this massive collection of minutes—translated from the original Dutch—of the Classical Assembly (1857-1870), the General Assembly (1867-1879), and the Synodical Assembly of 1880. (Eerdmans)

A Place of Refugeby Renae B. Vander Schaaf
Thirteen-year-old Elsje is a Dutch farm girl who moves with her family from Pella, Iowa, to settle Orange City in the northwest part of the state. In this young adult novel, Vander Schaaf blends fact with fiction and adds hymns, recipes, and Scripture verses at the end of each chapter. (The Write Place)

The Temple Curtainby Ruth Moblard DeYoung
Retired teacher and Banner news correspondent DeYoung wrote this book for juvenile readers to explain the significance of the torn temple curtain at the time of Jesus’ death. The book tells the story of young Nathan, who witnesses a number of points in the biblical narrative, such as Jesus’ crucifixion, Pentecost, and beginning of the Christian church. (Westbow Press)

Up the Hill by James Schaap
This collection of prairie town tales is told from the perspective of the dead. Skilled storyteller (and Dordt professor emeritus) Schaap continues to create interesting characters and voices, telling stories of sadness and humor. Available in eBook format.