New and Noteworthy, October 2014

“Smart Money, Smart Kids: Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money.”

Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze. Smart Money, Smart Kids: Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money. Brentwood, Tenn.: Lampo Press, 2014. 256 pages. $24.99. 

Financial guru Ramsey and his daughter, Cruze, teach a simplified version of his envelope system. They discuss working, spending, saving and giving before moving into issues such as avoiding debt, paying cash for college and battling discontentment. The book includes Cruze’s memories of growing up in the Ramsey household. 

“Hacker: The Outlaw Chronicles.”

Ted Dekker. Hacker: The Outlaw Chronicles. Brentwood, Tenn.: Worthy Publishing, 2014. 304 pages. $14.99. 

Dekker’s latest work follows bestsellers “Water Walker” and “Eyes Wide Open.” It’s part of a series of science-fantasy books that feature connected characters and settings, but not plot lines. 

As with all of “The Outlaw Chronicles,” the book conveys the message that life is more than this world, that humans are more than bodies and minds. This book is suitable for teens and adults. 

“Wasted Prayer: Know When God Wants You to Stop Praying and Start Doing.”

Greg Darley. Wasted Prayer: Know When God Wants You to Stop Praying and Start Doing. Nashville, Tenn.: Nelson Books, 2014. 208 pages. $15.99. 

Darley, a director for International Justice Mission, takes risks for a living. He shares how Christians in any vocation can do the same. 

He argues that prayer can enable Christians to procrastinate, isolate themselves from other Christians and develop pride. God answers prayers, he writes, but Christians must say yes to his commands and opportunities. 

“The Case for Christianity Answer Book.”

Lee Strobel. The Case for Christianity Answer Book. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2014. 224 pages. $14.99. 

This small book uses a question-and-answer format to help Christians new and seasoned defend their faith. Questions include, “Did God use evolution when he created the world?” and “Why does he allow suffering?” 

This book could be a perfect gift for young Christians. It also may serve as a guide for those who need ready answers for those skeptical about the Christian faith.