Welcome to the L.A.F. Bookstore! At the top we have the "Spence" bookshelf, which features all the fantastic books on feminism, society, and the church available from Spence Publishing. When you click on the book links, you'll be ordering from Spence, which will ship your order directly to you. All of the books in the second section are currently not linked, since Books on the Path changed hands, and we are working on updating all the links. Hope to have them back online shortly! Until then, you can just browse the titles at Books on the Path. Thanks!

A short note about our reviews: In addition to giving some basic information about each book, some will include a note about the intended audience. We here at LAF truly wish to promote maidenly innocence (which is not the same thing as ignorance), and, therefore, we list some books as "mature." Our "warning labels" are given as guidelines so that our younger audience doesn't read things which might shock. Most of these books are entirely appropriate for an older audience (especially married women), but we'd urge our younger readers to seek parental guidance. And please keep in mind that we do not think any book (besides the Bible) is perfect. Some of the books we have selected are not by Christian authors but do provide excellent food for thought and help build a solid worldview. As always, "toss the shells and treasure the pearls!"

The Spence Publishing Shelf

Spence Publishing is consistently producing some of the finest non-fiction works available today. Their reputation is as solid as they come, because their authors research deeply, think carefully, write cogently, and draw logical, well-spoken conclusions. We can recommend any of their titles without reservation, but we'd especially like to point you to the titles they have to offer which specifically address the ills of feminism. These are simply top-notch books and must-haves for your home bookshelf. Clicking on the title will take you directly to the ordering page on Spence's website.

~ Forced Labor: What's Wrong with Balancing Work and Family by Brian Robertson Robertson's cogent, careful analysis of our culture's obsession with work to the detriment of our families is timely and sobering. Be sure to read our in-depth review of the book, along with LAF's interview with the author. Available directly from Spence Publishing for $10.77 (40% off!)

~ Domestic Tranquility: A Brief Against Feminism by F. Carolyn Graglia This is, perhaps, the most thoroughly researched and incredibly enlightening book on the feminist movement ever written. Graglia shows that, in order for the movement to work, feminism has to totally marginalize the place of the stay-at-home wife and/or mother and degrade any work that isn't done for a salary. This is not light reading, by any means. It is a tome. Some of the chapters struck me as repetitive, but I think Graglia merely wanted to drive her point home as thoroughly as possible. This is a scholarly work and a deep one. [Note: This book is not recommended for unmarried or young women (under 25, I'd say), since it deals with some fairly delicate topics.] Available directly from Spence Publishing for $14.97 (50% off!)

~ The Church Impotent: The Feminization of Christianity by Leon J. Podles A look at the history of the Western Church's slide into effiminacy. Podles posits that the feminization of Western Christianity began with the Christian mystics of the 12th and 13th centuries. He critiques both Catholic and Protestant doctrines, and he also digs into sociology, anthropology and psychology in his study of what constitutes masculinity. Absolutely vital to the understanding of the ills of the modern Church. [Not recommended for young readers, since it deals with a few delicate topics.] [In-depth review coming soon!] Available directly from Spence Publishing for $10.77 (40% off!)

~ Feminist Fantasies by Phyllis Schlafly For over forty years, Mrs. Schlafly has exposed the political agenda of the feminist movement (which wins "victories" at the expense of women it does not represent). This book is a compilation of her best columns, highlighting Mrs. Schlafly's quick wit and her ability to reveal exactly what feminist activists have done and hope to do to culture, society, and the family. While we don't agree with every single thing that Mrs. Schlafly advocates herself, we feel is is one of the bravest and most articulate opponents of radical feminism today. [In-depth review coming soon!] Available directly from Spence Publishing for $13.97 (50% off!)

~ Love and Economics: Why the Laissez-Faire Family Doesn't Work by Jennifer Roback-Morse The author is an economist who takes a highly unique approach to the philosophy of the family. You might wonder what love could possibly have to do with economics, but Mrs. Roback-Morse uses economic and political philosophy to demonstrate that there is no replacement for a committed mother and father in a child's life. Going deeper than that, the author shows that the family cannot survive without self-sacrificial love--and that our modern-day society is too selfish to give that kind of love. We need family reformation, and Mrs. Roback-Morse's thorough examination of family life helps give us the keys to its restoration. [In-depth review coming soon!] Available directly from Spence Publishing for $13.97 (50% off!)

~ Goddess Unmasked by Philip G. Davis Many modern-day feminists are dipping into the religion of the "goddess," which they believe is a revival of the worship found in earth's original matriarchal societies. Mr. Davis demonstrates that not only is there no evidence for goddess-centered, matriarchal societies, but goddess worshipers know it and choose to overlook the lack of a foundation for their new faith. Further, Mr. Davis explores the implications of the philosophical bias embraced by goddess worshipers and demonstrates that their subjective religion can only lead to moral relativism (as many adherents fully admit). Expertly documented and superbly written, this book is a must for anyone hoping to understand the changes happening within the neo-feminist movement. [In-depth review coming soon!] Available directly from Spence Publishing for $10.77 (40% off!)

Top Recommended Titles

Books on Womanhood and Marriage

~Verses of Virtue Without a vision for femininity and virtue, Christian womanhood will not survive the twenty-first century. The time has come to sing the praises of motherhood, to extol the blessings of beautiful girlhood, and to cast a vision for hearth and home. Poetry and prose are a crucial component in this mission of vision communication. From the beginning, poetry and the beauty of language have always been a part of God's revealed program for instilling perspective and purpose in the minds and hearts of women. In fact, the first words of love communicated of woman by man were poetic words of appreciation and understanding. Drawing upon the beauty of parallelism in expression, Adam declared of Eve: "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh." And so it goes throughout all the scriptures. From the Psalms of David, to the poetry of Isaiah, to the verses of Deborah, to the songs of Solomon, and even the divinely inspired prose of John foretelling the return of the bridegroom, our Lord uses the beauty of language to motivate and to inspire. These are God's verses of virtue, and they served as the inspiration for untold hundreds of books and poems dedicated to a Christian vision for motherhood and home which once defined the landscape of American family life. Beall Phillips seeks to revive this vision. In Verses of Virtue she draws from some of the most heart-warming and inspirational verses from scripture, America's illustrious past, and even antiquity to provide women with a volume brimming with encouragement. Hardback: $20.00

~ Raising Maidens of Virtue Written by Stacy McDonald with a foreword by Jennie Chancey, this book is a study for mothers and daugthers. It is perfect for one-on-one study or groups of mothers and daughters! Paperback: $10.95

~ The Excellent Wife: A Biblical Perspective by Martha Peace Hands-down, this is the most-recommended and most well-written study on the role of the biblical wife. Martha Peace dives into Scripture with obvious enjoyment and presents a well-rounded picture of the wife as the Bible presents her. She also gives excellent counsel on how to deal with difficult home situations (non-Christian spouse, abusive spouse, etc.). A must-have for any woman's library (good for single women, too!). Paperback: $12.95

~ Becoming a Titus 2 Woman A companion volume to The Excellent Wife, this book is especially good for group study and focuses on the role of older women in the church as teachers. Paperback: $10.95

~ Reforming Marriage by Douglas Wilson If you choose to read only one book on Christian marriage, make this the book. Thoroughly Scriptural and full of challenging insights, Reforming Marriage outlines the often misunderstood roles of headship, authority and submission and does not let men off the hook! Both husbands and wives are urged to become more Christlike in their relations with each other, reflecting a servant's heart with joyful abandon. This book will challenge you to take a closer look at your own motives and give you an outstanding vision for marriage! Paperback: $10.00

~ Family Practice Edited by R.C. Sproul, Jr. This is an absolutely fantastic book if you want a short but thorough overview of what it means to be a part of a family. Covering the roles of men and women, grandparents, children, churches, and more, twelve contributors celebrate God's beautiful design for the family. Very highly recommended! Paperback: $9.99

~ The Fruit of Her Hands by Nancy Wilson Nancy Wilson broaches topics not often discussed in Christian circles today, including women criticizing each other (backbiting), women lacking respect for their husbands and women not loving their children. This book and Praise Her in the Gates (below) should be read together, since they really form a series. These books will prick your conscience and reveal the need for God's sanctifying grace in your daily life. They have challenged me and inspired me to go beyond the "duties" of homemaking, child-rearing and husband-helping and aspire to excellence and true love for my family. Paperback: $9.00

~ Praise Her in the Gates by Nancy Wilson A wonderful follow-up to The Fruit of Her Hands, this book gives excellent counsel on living as gracious women in our homes, the church and broader society. Mrs. Wilson shows the importance of the woman's role and reveals just how multi-facted and beautiful it is. Paperback: $9.00

~Feminine to the Glory of God by Mrs. Stacy McDonald This is a fantastic two-cassette audio tape set which addresses modesty, femininity and the delights of being a woman. Highly recommended for all ages! $12.50

Books and Tapes for Single Women

~ Beautiful Girlhood by Mable Hale Full of virtue, timeless advice, and common sense, this classic volume is a primer on developing godly character. Offering biblical wisdom on the issues preteen girls face every day---friendship, modesty, honesty, ideals, purity, becoming a Christian---this original unabridged version will help your young ladies reach "the perfection of womanhood." $5.95

~ "What's a Girl to Do?" Audio tape by Douglas Phillips This is one of the most outstanding lectures I've ever heard on the role of the single woman in the family, home, church and society. If you are wondering what you are supposed to do as a young woman, or if you are a parent with daughters, this tape is a must-have! $7

~ Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss Written as a daily journal, Stepping Heavenward follows its 19th-century heroine from girlhood to adulthood, recording her struggles and joys in between. Based loosely upon the author's life, the book is realistic in its portrayal of the trials and triumphs we all go through as women and gives us hope in the midst of frustration. One of my all-time favorites! Paperback: $5.95

~ Her Hand in Marriage by Douglas Wilson This is one of the better books on the whole topic of preparation for marriage and courtship. It goes into the foundational principles of God's purpose for marriage and the godly vision we should have as we approach marriage. The final chapter, with its word picture of the woman as a walled garden is worth the price of the book. I wish every teenaged girl could cement that picture into her mind and see what a priceless treasure she is--especially when she keeps her choice fruits and pure streams unpolluted. Paperback: $8

~ Daughters of Destiny Edited by Noelle Wheeler With the skill of a woman who herself was nurtured in the garden of beautiful womanhood by loving Christian parents, Noelle Wheeler reveals to the reader the many character qualities of the woman of God: her love of home; her servant-like spirit; her confidence in Christ; her fervor in defense of family and freedom. The reader will meet frontier wives, patriot daughters, and faithful ladies who labored in the cause of Christ. This book is a compilation of true stories, some harrowing, and each more thrilling than the last, of those past women of faith and fortitude who comprise that great cloud of witnesses which God Almighty has given as a holy testimony of courage to those daughters of destiny who will stand in the 21st century. Hardcover: $18.00

Books on Homemaking, Manners and Womanly Arts

~ Face to Face: Meditations on Friendship and Hospitality by Rev. Steve Wilkins The Christian faith presents friendship and hospitality not as luxuries but necessities. God does not save us in isolation but in community with other people. There is no possibility of living to the glory of God apart from godly companions. In this book, Steve Wilkins seeks to call us back to the joyous obligations of friendship and hospitality. He spells out the biblical virtues that nurture both, as well as the stumblingblocks that will hinder us. $10.00

~ Bless This Food by Pitkin, Grant and Grant Four Seasons of Menus, Recipes and Table Graces. Bless This Food is a unique cookbook that combines wonderful menus and recipes with table prayers, food customs, and religious and cultural traditions. The menus are for many varied occasions--traditional national holidays, family gatherings, religious celebrations, ethnic festivals, life passages, and get-togethers with friends. Hardcover: $18.95

~ The Naturally Healthy Woman by Shonda Parker As women move through the phases of life their health needs change. Shonda Parker shares with women how they can deal with female health issues from a natural, botanical medicinal approach. With the growing interest in natural medicine and its gentler ways on a women's physiology, this book is sure to be a tremendous blessing to women in any phase of life. Shonda is the author of Mommy Diagnostics and The Naturally Healthy Pregnancy. [Note from Mrs. Chancey: I have never read a more balanced and scriptural approach to family health than Mrs. Parker's book. Her "ladder" approach to health is sensible and wise. Highly recommended!] $14.99

~ The Naturally Healthy Pregnancy by Shonda Parker Shonda Parker, Professional Family Herbalist and Certified Childbirth Educator, combines her previous medical assistant experience with years of practice in the Parker Home Health Unit. [Again--highly recommended reading!] $14.99

~ The Art of Tea and Friendship by Sandy Lynam Clough Beloved artist Sandy Clough delightfully guides readers on the fine art of blending tea and friendship. Along with her beautiful antique teaware paintings,Sandy offers a creative variety of ways for friends to gather and savor the fragrance of time spent together, sharing a part of their lives. Friends, old and new, close and far away, will enjoy ideas on how to: - have a telephone tea party with long–distance friends - host a homeschool lesson on the art of tea - make a teacup friendship topiary Laced with wonderful quotes, poems, and Scriptures that celebrate the blessings of friendship, this visually stunning treasure is perfect for rekindling past friendships, nurturing current friendships, and encouraging the growth of new friendships. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, and special celebrations. Hardcover: $15.99

~ A Little Book of Manners: Etiquette for Young Ladies by Emilie Barnes Beautifully illustrated and easy to read, this book offers hundreds of helpful tips for young ladies. It includes advice on phone etiquette, introductions, table setting and more. A great gift for your favorite young lady! Hardcover: $14.99

~ A Little Book of Manners for Boys by Bob and Emilie Barnes This is the companion volume for boys and is chock-full of manly advice for all situations (eating at table, conversing with others, etc.). Great illustrations! Hardcover: $14.99

~ The Little Book of Christian Character & Manners by William and Colleen Dedrick Have you ever felt like your kids were beyond your control? Would you like a little peace and quiet restored to your home? Are you fed up with trying to raise your children according to the latest psychological "findings" and theories, only ot discover they don't work? Well, then this "little book" is for you! The authors reach back to a time befroe the advent of child experts and uncover tried and true ways, rooted in the timeless wisdom of the Bible, of raising children. Handed down from generations past, these godly ways of building character and teaching manners - unlike the latest fads - have passed the test of time. This much-needed "little book" is intended not to be exhaustive child-training manual, but to provide a framework upon which to build practical standards for discipline and manners in your home. Softcover: $8.99

Books to Help You Teach Your Children Well

~ The Covenant Household by Doug Wilson 8 Tape Audio Series - Wilson discusses the meaning and implications of biblical federalism or covenantal representation in the family and includes discussions of common sins of marriage and household and sketches of a godly husband, wife, and parents. $20

~ Standing on the Promises by Douglas Wilson One of the finest books on childrearing in print, this book shows why Christian parents can train their children in hope, knowing that God honors His promises. Paperback: $10.00

~ Shepherding a Child's Heart by Ted Tripp It is not enough to teach our children to obey us so that their behavior isn't embarrassing to us. That is actually a selfish motivation that isn't found in Scripture. Tripp shows that the goal of child-training is to reach your child's heart and teach it to obey out of love, ultimately creating a pattern for the child's relationship with God. Paperback: $13.95

~ Instructions in Righteousness A wealth of material for parents, personal Bible study, family worship, character training, unit studies, and Bible study projects for older children. This book is a wonderful reference tool to insure the use of Scripture when disciplining and training your child. It includes hundreds of verses on over 50 areas of sin. $27

~ Polished Cornerstones This is a great choice for homeschoolers to use in teaching bible and character to their daughters! Polished Cornerstones offers hundreds of different ideas for Bible study projects, reading material, and practical, everyday activities to help prepare your daughters for godly womanhood (and to help them live godly lives as young women). Reproducible forms mean that one copy of this book will serve for all your daughters (and maybe even a few granddaughters!). $43

~ Plants Grown Up This is a great choice for homeschoolers to use in teaching bible and character to their sons! This 500-page, spiral-bound book offers hundreds of ideas for Bible study projects, reading material, and practical, everyday activities to help train your sons for godly manhood. One copy of this book can be used with all your sons from the time they can memorize simple Bible verses until the day they each get married. (And then they can save it to use with your grandsons!) $43

~ Little Children and the Worship of God by Randy Booth Pastor Booth lays out a solid, biblical argument supporting the practice of the family-integrated church. $2

~ Uniting Church and Home by Eric Wallace In a day when the church is following the lead of the culture by splitting up the family, this book offers solutions for helping churches put families back together…and consequently, the church as a family back together, too. A very down-to-earth vision for how church leaders and families can begin to unite church and home is presented along with practical examples of how churches are adopting this Biblically unique approach. Paperback: $15.99

~ The Role of Children in the Meeting of the Church by Doug Phillips The biblical example is that entire families are present for corporate worship. Age-segregated worship is rooted in evolutionary humanism, not biblical Christianity. "The biblical example is that entire families are present for corporate worship. Age-segregated worship is rooted in evolutionary humanism, not biblical Christianity. "Suffer the little children" to be in the presence of God and begin to experience the true blessing of family-centered worship. $7

The Heart of Homeschooling by Christopher Klicka This book is a shot in the arm for homeschooling parents who need their vision renewed. Longtime homeschooling father Chris Klicka reminds us that we are aiming for our children's hearts and souls--not just trying to create intellectual giants. Mrs. Klicka also supplies a chapter for moms that will have veteran homeschoolers nodding their heads and smiling--and feeling like they have found a friend! Paperback: $12.99

Books on Living (and Thinking!) the Faith

~ Persuasions: A Dream of Reason Meeting Unbelief by From the publisher: This has long been one of our most popular books, and it's now published in a new format. This collection of easy-to-read dialogues between Christians and non-Christians is a helpful introductions to the defense of Christian faith against a host of common objections from atheism, agnosticism, pantheism, hypocrisy, feminism, and more. Great for family reading or to give to a non-Christian friend. Paperback: $9.00

~ The Quest for Meekness and Quietness of Spirit by Matthew Henry Known as the famed Puritan commentator, Matthew Henry (1662-1714) sets out in this book to define what meekness is, to show what excellence there is in it, and to make numerous applications. This is a wonderful treatment of 1 Peter 3:4, "Even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." Hardback: $18.95

~ Always Ready By Dr. Greg Bahnsen One of the premier books on apologetics available! Dr. Greg Bahnsen's logical brilliance shines no less than his gracious concern for the lost. A great resource for those wanting to sharpen their swords and defend the faith! $18.00

Books on Responsible Manhood

~ Federal Husband Federal thinking is foreign to the modern mind. Federal has come to mean nothing more than centralized or big. But federal thinking is the backbone of historic Protestant theology, and the Church needs to recover the covenantal understanding of federal headship. Husbands are to lead their families, taking responsibility for them as covenant heads - as federal husbands. $9

~ Building a Family That Will Stand by Lancaster, Phillips and Thompson 8 Tape Audio Series - God is touching the hearts of a growing number of Christian fathers with a hunger to learn more about biblical manhood. This quiet revival is taking place in homes where teary-eyed fathers are standing before their wives and children, repenting for their lack of vision and leadership, and recommitting themselves to God's priorities for men. The goal of these conference tapes is to encourage men to see "the big picture" of biblical manhood. Topics include the meaning of patriarchy, developing a multi-generational vision, busy fathers as family shepherds, preparing sons for marriage and life purpose, biblical discipline, family worship, and much more! $30

~ Fidelity by Doug Wilson Addressed to men, Fidelity hits hard, using clear language, focusing on specific sins with specific solutions: adultery, divorce, polygamy, celibacy, pornography, and more. But in the end, the antidote to all sexual temptation is simple-the godly honoring of the marriage bed: "Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." (Heb. 13:4). A must read in today's perverse society. $11

~ The Exemplary Husband by Dr. Stuart Scott Who's your model of an ideal husband? Your father? Your pastor? How about Jesus! Scott takes an in-depth and biblical look at God's expectations for husbands---their walk, Christ-like character, responsibilities, and more. This companion to The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace features many helpful appendixes. A must-read for all husbands! $21.95

~ Future Men by Douglas Wilson Every parent of sons needs a copy of this book! Wilson shows the heart of the boy and gives advice for bringing up chivalrous defenders and manly men. This is another must-have. Paperback: $12.00

~ Women and Children First by Doug Phillips Part of raising a Godly son is teaching him to honor women. Listen to the inspiring true story of the Titanic, where countless men sacrificially laid down their lives in chivalrous courage and honor. $10.00

~ Defending the Fatherless by Doug Phillips The most neglected group in the Church is children of single-mother homes. It is a biblical obligation to help such mothers stay off welfare and out of the workforce, and to enable them to home educate their children. This is true religion. CD: $10.00

~ The Princess and the Kiss by Jennie Bishop A loving King and Queen, on the day she is born, present their daughter with a gift from God — her first kiss — to keep or to give away. The wise princess waits for the man who is worthy of her precious gift. She struggles with moments of frustration wondering if there is truly a husband out there for her. Her mother counsels her with godly advice and loving comfort. This book is perfect for the family who is looking for alternatives to the dangerous world of dating. Read this story to your young daughters (and sons) and introduce them to a beautiful story of trusting and waiting for God’s best. $9.95

Further Recommended Reading

(The list below contains titles we are not able to get through Books on the Path, but they are books we'd like to recommend to you. Please check with your local bookstore or see if you can find used copies on Half.com or Addall.com.)

Books on Feminism:

~ What Our Mothers Didn't Tell Us: Why Happiness Eludes the Modern Woman by Danielle Crittenden Thoughtfully written and containing many excellent questions, this book asks why women should give up home and family for a career. Crittenden discusses the myth that a "career" is more fulfilling than staying at home and talks about why children need their own mothers. She also has a very interesting take on the 19th amendment. The only unfortunate thing about this book is its conclusion, which lacks real authority. After the great build-up, the ending is a complete let-down. But this is still a thought-provoking book to keep as a reference. [Note: Recommended for older readers.]

~ The War Against Boys by Christina Hoff Sommers Sommers's scrupulous research reveals that all the recent feminism propaganda about girls being "left behind" in school is nonsense. Boys are the ones being pushed down and held back as girls are elevated at their expense. Fascinating reading!

~ A Return to Modesty : Discovering the Lost Virtue
by Wendy Shalit
Shalit accuses people on both the left and the right of harming young women, so this isn't really a refutation of feminism. What is it, then? A brilliant, thorough and witty denunciation of immodesty and our sensually driven culture. Shalit shows that immodesty robs women of their dignity, self-worth and true "power." Her insights into the modern dating culture are shocking and disturbing (especially to those of us who had the joy of experiencing courtship). If "freeing" women of their clothes and moral restraint is feminism's gift to the world, we say, "Take it back!" [Note: Recommended for older readers.]

~ The Feminization of American Culture by Ann Douglas Now back in print, this a scholarly work I happened to stumble across on eBay a few years ago. It looked interesting, so I bid on it and got it for three dollars. This has become one of the best investments in book-buying I have ever made. Ann Douglas is a feminist and doesn't understand the Christian faith well enough to articulate it thoughtfully (her treatment of the faith of the Reformers is, in particular, clumsy at times and done with broad strokes). But the main theme of the book strikes home with a razor-sharp point. Douglas's argument is that, when theology lost its masculinity in the early 19th century, our culture began its downhill descent into materialism (ultimately leading to our "pop" consumer-oriented culture). Douglas demonstrates very effectively that the elevation of the "ornamental" female in 19th-century literature (particularly religious literature in New England) brought about a radical shift in the Church and in American culture. Sentimental female pietism did not lead to great intellectual jumps in the faith, but, rather, the reverse. The Church became the second domecile of women and children, and preachers began to water down their message (and the gospel) to cater to this audience. Naturally, Douglas's lament is not that men became emasculated, but that women failed to take proper intellectual leadership and stop the spiral into consumerism. As Christians, we know that God did not design women for Church leadership in the first place, so the downward trend is inevitable with women at the helm. Without a strong, sturdy, manly faith practicing servant leadership (as Christ does), the Church (and the culture) can only fizzle into a limp, frilly "women's club." If you can find this book, get it. It will really challenge you to think about the effiminate Church in a new light (particularly since you get to see it through the eyes of a non-Christian).

Books on Beautiful Womanhood

~ Let Me Be a Woman by Elisabeth Elliot Written as a series of letters to her daughter, this book presents the beauties of real womanhood, refutes many feministic arguments and spells out the joys of serving God as a woman. Inspiring, challenging and refreshing!

~ Fascinating Womanhood by Helen Andelin This is a book the feminists have loved to hate for years. Helen Andelin has often been the target of their spite for her "quaint" views on femininity, womanly dress and behavior. FW is a fun read and offers many practical suggestions for how to be "fascinating" (i.e. feminine in a very distinctive way). I don't agree with all of Mrs. Andelin's perspectives (particularly in relation to Proverbs 31: , I Cor. 7:3-5 and I Cor. 13:11), but her successful life as a loving wife, mother of eight and supporter of true women speaks volumes. Mrs. Andelin is a Mormon, but all of her teachings on womanhood come from the Bible and reflect her desire to see women follow God's outlines for beautiful womanhood.

Books on Homemaking, Manners and Womanly Arts

~ Invitation to Tea by Emilie Barnes A lovely book about the custom of serving tea, including helpful how-to's and suggestions for tea menus.

~ Kitchen Science: A Guide to Knowing the Hows and Whys for Fun and Success in the Kitchen by Howard Hillman This book comes highly recommended by several women who find it indispensible in their kitchens. It covers "why freezing ruins the texture of meat, why new potatoes are best for salad, why onions make you cry, why baking powder leavens, and how to make perfect sauces, custards, souffles and much, much more!"

~ Home Comforts: The Art and Science of Keeping House by Cheryl Mendelson This is the ultimate encyclopedia of homemaking, covering everything from how to clean and store linens to where to put leftovers in the refrigerator and everything in between. The next time someone tells you homemaking is for "dummies" or is "boring," drop this five-pound book on their lap with a smile!

~ Beautiful Home on a Budget by Emilie Barnes This lovely little volume is packed with inspiring watercolor illustrations to get you in the mood to make your home more inviting--without going to great expense. Emilie Barnes shows how to use what you have to advantage and as a reflection of your family's style. Handy-dandy!

~ The Spirit of Loveliness by Emilie Barnes This book goes into greater depth on the creation of a Christ-centered home filled with loving touches for those who live there or visit. Uplifting and inspiring!

~ The Benevolence of Manners by Linda Lichter This is a fascinating look at life in Victorian times. Lichter explodes many myths about Victorian "prudery" and demonstrates that their adherence to rules of etiquette and deportment actually made them happier and more at ease than we often are in our confused, genderless culture. Lichter is not writing from a Christian perspective, but her insights are thought-provoking. [Note: For older readers.]

~ Is A Job Really Worth It?
by Sue Hill Boggs
This book was published in 1979 and has not gotten nearly the exposure it should. It could save an entire generation from the pitfalls of feminism and start women on the right course providing the comforts of home to husbands, children, friends and strangers. It is hard to describe this wonderful book without quoting the entire text. It shows the many reasons mother should remain at home with her children and answers objections such as: we need the money; I need the fulfillment, I'm bored and lonely at home. Throughout the study she asks the question, "What about faith?" and encourages the reader to put her trust in God for His provision for her family while she stays at home. She warns that children will be gone so quickly they will having nothing but blurred memories of their lives, and urges mothers to slow down and care for their children. ~ Lady Lydia

~ Creating a SenseSational Home by Terry Willits From Ingram's book review: "This book will encourage, equip, and enthuse women about their homes and help them recognize the incredible impact they can have simply by stimulating and celebrating their five God-given senses. Terry Willits shares basic yet beautiful decorating tips, easy ways to fragrance your home, simple ideas to tempt your taste buds, encouraging hints to fill your home with pleasant sounds, and practical tips to bring touches of comfort to where you live."

~ Simply SenseSational Decorating by Terry Willits Book Description: From the initial step of dreaming about your decorating style, to selecting that first fabric, to placing the final touches of accessories, this book gives simple, inexpensive ideas to transform your home one step at a time.

~ The Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Schaeffer The well-loved classic on how to make a house a home. Not just about decorating, this book covers the atmosphere of home that each woman can help create, making home a pleasant, engaging place for family, friends and strangers. A must-have.

Books on Courtship

~ Passion and Purity by Elisabeth Elliot This is the classic work on emotional and physical purity before marriage. Realistic and warmly written, this book has inspired thousands of men and women to trust God's timing in their relationships as they work to build godly marriages.

~ I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris This book has been a phenomenal bestseller since it came out, and with good reason: Harris doesn't focus solely on "how to find your mate God's way," but talks about the importance of having a focus upon serving God while single. Instead of "waiting around" for Mr. or Mrs. Right, Harris urges singles to concentrate on what they can do while single and on treating fellow singles as brothers and sisters rather than "potentialities."

~ Boy Meets Girl: Say Hello to Courtship by Joshua and Shannon Harris The long-anticipated follow-up to I Kissed Dating Goodbye, this book tells the story of how Josh Harris met and courted his wife and gives further insights into godly marriage building.

~ Of Knights and Fair Maidens: A Radical New Way to Develop Old-fashioned Relationships
by Jeff and Danielle Myers
This lovely little book demonstrates that God's way of creating marriages is truly Romantic and beautiful. A good book to pass along to friends, since it succinctly summarizes the Biblical teachings on relationships and marriage.

Books on Child Training, Education and "Entertainment"

~ The Heart of Anger by Lou Priolo Hands-down, this is the best book on what causes anger in children and how to deal with it Scripturally and lovingly. Priolo lays the blame right where it belongs: on the parents, who--intentionally or unknowingly--provoke their children to anger. Practical suggestions for dealing with anger and teaching the child to examine his heart are included.

~ Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman This book will profoundly alter the way you perceive television and its effects on individuals and society. An eye-opening look at where "attention defecit disorders" really come from and a challenge to "tame the box" or throw it out altogether. This topic is vitally important for all families to think about and decide upon. Television will shape your children's minds whether you like it or not. Will your family become slaves to the "idiot box," or will they make it the servant it can be? Provacative reading.

~ The Plug-in Drug by Marie Winn Another hard-hitting analysis of television and its adverse effects on children, families and culture.

~ For the Children's Sake by Susan S. MacAuley Mrs. MacAuley is the daughter of Francis and Edith Schaeffer. She presents a beautiful vision of home education as a way of living -- not just an educational alternative. Her suggestions for making homelife central for children are helpful and inspiring.

Inspiring Fiction

~ The Complete Illustrated Novels of Jane Austen Austen is an author no home should be without. Her witty insights into human nature provoke laughter and understanding. This is a beautiful volume containing the charming illustrations from the 1890s editions.

~ Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Quite possibly the most beloved novel of the 19th century. This is certainly one of our family favorites. Jane's steady Christian character and her firm adherence to her beliefs in the face of great temptation make for a wonderful story.

~ The Maiden's Bequest/ The Minister's Restoration/ The Laird's Inheritance (Three Novels in One Volume) by George MacDonald The works of Scottish writer George MacDonald belong in every home's library. MacDonald's stories inspired C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, among others, and his stories deliver Truth with a sweet savor.

~ The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald A family favorite in our house, this story will thrill children and adults alike.

~ The Light Princess by George MacDonald The fact that George MacDonald--a scholar as well as a preacher and writer--once read this fairy tale to his students instead of giving them a lecture says volumes about the man and his beliefs. It also says much about his faith in the power of stories. The Light Princess is a simple enough tale, clearly written for children--a princess at her christening is cursed by a wicked witch with lightness (she floats blissfully about the castle all day long, and gets into all sorts of adventures, as one can easily imagine)--yet it holds a powerful spiritual truth. Gravity, weight, sorrow, suffering--all of this the princess misses, but with all of these she misses love, for what is love without weight, without body? What is love without falling? She discovers this truth, of course, only at the last minute when a faithful prince loves her enough to die for her. Sometimes it's not a ponderous lecture--or sermon--that we need in order to experience what incarnation is about. --review by Doug Thorpe.

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