Self Help

Christlike Parenting

Background

Published in 2002, “Christlike Parenting” by Glenn I. Latham, presents a approach to raising children emphasizing the importance of kindness, patience, positive reinforcement in parenting, and encouraging parents to model their behavior after Christ. By focusing on building positive relationships and avoiding punitive discipline, Latham shows how effective parenting can lead to happier, more respectful children. The techniques are explained and both scriptural references and psychological insights are cited, making the book a useful guide for Christian families and those looking for practical parenting advice rooted in love and understanding.

Christlike Parenting
Christlike Parenting

My Thoughts

While I felt some of Dr. Latham’s methods were a little too “Pollyanna” for the real world, I do agree with most of what he put in the book. Kids really don’t need you yelling at them and the world heaps plenty of problems on them without their parents adding to the load. As much as I believe all parents try to stay in control of the situation, they typically aren’t in an environment of stress. That said, I thought the majority of the book to be pretty well spot on.

What I believe was missing from the book is how to “repair” the damage after it occurs. Likely his response would be something along the lines of being consistent, forgiving, and being the role model for the children to emulate. However, I believe that would include owning our issues and apologizing to children when appropriate. That can be a hard pill to swallow by several families, but I believe it to be worth it.

Also, Dr. Latham quoted my Psychology Chair at Utah State, Dr. Carl Cheney on page 115. That really made my day! He is an incredible man and loved seeing his name in print.

Recommendation

Not bad. It was a quick read and a good reminder.

The Tech-Wise Family

Background

Published in 2017, “The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place,” by Andy Crouch, explores how families can navigate the influence of technology in modern life. Crouch provides advice and insights on creating an intentional approach to tech use, encouraging families to foster deeper relationships, creativity, and spiritual growth. By prioritizing human connections and setting thoughtful boundaries around digital devices, the book aims to help families reclaim their time and attention from the distractions of the digital age.

The Tech-Wise Family
The Tech-Wise Family

My Thoughts

Distractions by technology have certainly been on the rise. However, it also gives us access to information and communication on a scale never seen in recorded history. I emphatically agreed with Crouch’s assertion that this technology needs to be regulated. While I do agree with the broad strokes of the message, I disagree on exactly how to go about implementing his vision. I will also give him credit for his disclaimers that he and his family are not perfect in their execution of his espoused ideals.

One section of the book resonated with me in particular. The idea that we have unprecedented access to all the best music in the world and yet make the least music of any time in history. While this could be seen as just another sector of specialization, I’d not thought about so many people never making music themselves. I sincerely hope almost everyone at least has the experience of singing in the shower as making music strikes me a fundamentally human activity. Maybe other specialities are as rewarding from neurosurgery to parkour. (PARKOUR!!!)

I am an optimist when it comes to technology. I sincerely believe most people will figure out their own balance and are not in need of the rules Crouch tries to follow. However, I salute his attempt to address the situation. I strongly believe parents need to support their children and, in most cases, that will require them to place reasonable boundaries on their activities. In theory, we (as parents) have the benefit of experience to give perspective to these boundaries. Yet, these disruptions are so new, many of us are still reeling with the changes. It may feel like it is the blind leading the blind here, yet I believe it is the same struggle as before. We, as humans, need to be intentional about our lives. We crave attachments and are easily bored with the shallow and vapid things of this life. It may take time, but I believe we each have to learn our own way and those of us smart enough to learn from others will have a distinct advantage.

Recommendation

A little preachy, but a good book.

My Tech-Wise Life

Background

Published in November of 2020, “My Tech-Wise Life: Growing Up and Making Choices in a World of Devices,” is co-authored by Amy Crouch and her father, Andy Crouch. The book explores Amy’s experiences growing up in a household that prioritized intentional and controlled use of technology. Amy, a Cornell University student, reflects on how this tech-wise upbringing helped her avoid common digital pitfalls and cultivate meaningful real-world interactions. Supported by research from the Barna Group, the book examines the pervasive influence of technology on young people’s lives and offers practical advice for balancing digital engagement with offline experiences. Andy Crouch provides additional insights, creating a dialogue attempting to bridge generational perspectives on managing technology effectively.

My Tech-Wise Life
My Tech-Wise Life

My Thoughts

My wife was reading, “The Tech-Wise Family”, which was written by Andy Crouch and really enjoyed it. I tried to reserve it and put it on hold. However, this one was available so I grabbed it and got started.

I enjoyed and agree with most of the things presented in the subject, yet I found the back and forth with the father distracting and unnecessary. Amy seemed to be genuine and was engaged with the topic. I believe she is likely to be able to connect with the younger audience. Her dad on the other hand came off as a little preachy. I understand that I am not the target demographic for this book, but even I didn’t like the guy. I will still read his book when it comes available though.

Recommendation

It was ok. I likely would have felt a bit better about it if I had read Andy’s book first.

Body Confidence

Background

Published in 2011, “Body Confidence” by Mark Macdonald offers a comprehensive guide to achieving optimal health and fitness through a balanced approach to nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits. The book introduces the “Venice Nutrition Program,” which emphasizes stabilizing blood sugar levels to maintain energy, burn fat, and build lean muscle. Macdonald provides practical advice, meal plans, and workout routines, aiming to empower readers to take control of their bodies and develop lasting confidence. The focus is on creating sustainable habits rather than quick fixes, promoting a holistic and personalized path to wellness.

Body Confidence
Body Confidence

My Thoughts

I’ve been looking for a good motivational book for a while and this one was not what I wanted. However, his idea does have some appeal in that the usual-body-technobabble made some sense. I liked his whole life approach and emphasis on not shaming. I liked that he supports an incremental build and understands it takes time to change. I didn’t like the idea of eating several times a day, but it’s the foundation of everything he is trying to preach. It is what it is.

For my personal journey, I’ve found as I’ve read these books that my opinions are fairly well solidified when it comes to health and nutrition. (I’m just looking for the motivation to do it.) By that measurement this book would only receive partial credit.

Recommendation

If you are looking to join another diet, this one may be right for you. If not, skip it.

Skinny Bastard

Background

Published in 2009, “Skinny Bastard,” challenges conventional dietary norms and advocates for a plant-based lifestyle to achieve optimal health and vitality. Through a combination of hard-hitting facts, humor, and practical advice, the book sheds light on the detrimental effects of meat and dairy consumption on health, the environment, and animal welfare. With a straightforward and no-nonsense approach, it empowers readers to take control of their health by adopting a plant-based diet, offering a wealth of information and resources to support this lifestyle change.

Skinny Bastard
Skinny Bastard

My Thoughts

I enjoyed how the book is written and after several attempts at reading some dietary books, which ended up written for women, I was hoping to find something a little more geared to men. This seemed to be a good alternative.

However, the book turned out to be just another attempt to push people into a fad diet with some tired slander and cherry picked research. (Much of which has been discredited in the last decade and even retracted by one of the doctors they cite.)

Recommendation

It started well but quick spiraled. Skip this one.

Fight Fat After Forty

Background

Published in 2000, “Fight Fat After Forty” is a health and wellness book by Pamela Peeke, M.D. It addresses the unique challenges women face in managing their weight after the age of forty. The book delves into the physiological changes such as hormonal fluctuations that can impact metabolism, mood, and energy levels. Dr. Peeke combines scientific research with practical advice, proposing a comprehensive plan that includes diet modifications, stress management techniques, and an exercise regimen tailored to enhance metabolic efficiency. The core message is that understanding and adapting to these bodily changes can empower women to maintain fitness and health.

Fight Fat After Forty
Fight Fat After Forty

My Thoughts

I am feeling a little larger than I’d prefer and I wanted to listen to something motivational while I had some time on my hands. I was shooting my son’s track meet when I picked out this book and didn’t quite look at it close enough. This book is all about the female side of health, but I figured, why not? Maybe I’ll learn something…

I found the book to be pretty well balanced as it didn’t advocate extreme versions of dieting. Dr. Peeke attempts to get to the reasons why women feel hungry and what to expect as they reach their forties. She gives practical advise and doesn’t go for the all-or-nothing or shaming approaches to weight loss.

On another note, I brought down two titles to listen to. The other looked like a clinical overview. It turned out it was all about women as well. It’s rare I send anything back, but I made an exception in this case. Sorry, Sara Gottfried M.D. I didn’t read “The Brain Body Diet” but the cover successfully reeled in a download.

Recommendation

I good balanced book on healthy eating. I highly recommend two X chromosomes.

The Algebra of Happiness

Background

Published in 2019, “The Algebra of Happiness” is a book by Scott Galloway that offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional advice, and insights into achieving success, happiness, and life fulfillment. The book draws from Galloway’s experiences as an entrepreneur, professor, and public speaker, providing guidance on relationships, career choices, and personal growth.

The Algebra of Happiness
The Algebra of Happiness

My Thoughts

I enjoyed this book. In particular, the fact that his sons brought so much joy into his life. (I don’t know that kissing them on the mouth is needed, but still.) It’s amazing how much he gets wrong at the same time of getting so much right.

Recommendation

It was still worth the read.

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

Background

Published in 2009, “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” explores the concept of motivation and challenges traditional notions of what drives human behavior. Daniel H. Pink argues that conventional carrot-and-stick approaches to motivation, such as rewards and punishments, are often ineffective in fostering long-term engagement and creativity. Pink introduces the concept of intrinsic motivation suggesting individuals are most motivated when they have the freedom to pursue tasks that align with their interests and values, opportunities to develop their skills, and a clear sense of meaning in their work.

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

My Thoughts

Reading this book 16 years after the publication does taint the excitement generated by the subject matter. I remember the rise of the open office in the tech world and the ideas of empowerment that were prevalent during that time. Some offices have continued along that path but have learned there are times employees needed time to themselves to do deep work. Of course, the COVID pandemic threw a monkey wrench into the idea of a fixed office provided by the company. Oddly enough, this plays directly into Pink’s point of autonomy. Are we more productive now? We are still sorting that out, but early reports like this one say we are much better off.

Recommendation

A good read but getting dated.

Leaders Eat Last

Background

Published in 2014, “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t,” by Simon Sinek, explores the foundational elements of great leadership and successful teams. Sinek delves into the biology of leadership, explaining how leaders can create environments where people feel safe, cooperate, and dedicate themselves to collective success. Drawing on real-life stories and scientific research, he illustrates why leaders who prioritize the well-being of their teams foster trust and collaboration, leading to more resilient and innovative organizations. The book underscores the importance of empathy and self-sacrifice in leadership, arguing that when leaders put their team’s needs first, they unlock the potential for extraordinary achievements. Sinek’s work offers a compelling roadmap for anyone looking to inspire loyalty, build stronger teams, and lead with a sense of purpose.

Leaders Eat Last
Leaders Eat Last

My Thoughts

Unlike “The Four”, this book seems to have withstood the test of time a little bit better. The forward was from Marine General Flinn, who gained some notoriety back in those days. No wonder this book was suggested to me by a Marine officer…

Recommendation

Good book with some solid ideas about inspiring others.

Between Husband and Wife: Gospel Perspectives on Marital Intimacy

Background

Published in 2000, “Between Husband and Wife: Gospel Perspectives on Marital Intimacy,” by Stephen E. Lamb and Douglas E. Brinley, provides a thoughtful exploration of the physical and emotional aspects of marital intimacy through the lens of gospel teachings. The authors delve into how couples can enhance their marital relationship by aligning their intimate lives with their spiritual beliefs, emphasizing communication, mutual respect, and love. The book addresses common challenges and questions couples may have, offering guidance and insights based on scriptural doctrines and the teachings of modern-day church leaders. It aims to help couples build a stronger, more fulfilling marriage by integrating their faith with their personal relationship, particularly in the context of intimacy, which is often considered a taboo subject in religious discussions. Through practical advice and spiritual encouragement, the book seeks to empower couples to nurture a deep, lasting connection that harmonizes their physical and spiritual union.

Between Husband and Wife: Gospel Perspectives on Marital Intimacy
Between Husband and Wife: Gospel Perspectives on Marital Intimacy

My Thoughts

Sex is one of the most taboo things that seems to be in everyone’s face. Pornographic images and videos are all over the place and none of them help a married couple because it isn’t real. Suspending for a second that the whole point of porn is to debase people in order to make money, even the most realistic depictions of sexual acts does not help married couples grow closer together. They need to walk that road themselves and discover themselves and each other in the process.

Recommendation

Certainly not the definitive source but it was a good book.