In my wanderings this week I found an article that showed what the best- selling books at Deseret Books were for the week of Feb.6 to Feb. 12, 1011.
1. To the Rescue: The Biography of Thomas S. Monson – Heidi S. Swinton
The much anticipated biography of the President of the LDS Church.
2. Our Best Bites: Mormon Moms in the Kitchen – Sara Wells and Kate Jones
Winners of the Better Homes & Garden Blogger Cook-off, and authors of the popular blog bring 150 new recipes together.
3. Divine Signatures – Gerald N. Lund
Filled with real-life stories which prove that God’s hand is evident in our lives.
4. Of Pigs, Pearls and Prodigals – John Bytheway
This book focuses specifically on the parables of the New Testament.
5. Shadows of Brierley: The Wanderer – Anita Stansfield
The first book in a new series from Anita Stansfield.
6. Midway to Heaven – Dean Hughes
Now a major motion picture (in theaters Feb. 4) this tender, light-hearted story by bestselling author Dean Hughes is the perfect blend of romance, comedy, poignancy, and just plain fun.
7. New Testament Made Easier – David J. Ridges
In-the-verse notes provide a unique teaching tool which allows you to read the complete text of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
8. Mark of Royalty – Jennifer K. Clark, Stephonie K. Williams
A new novel about a young princess hidden from her royal heritage.
9. 400 Questions and Answers About the Life and Times of Jesus Christ – Susan Easton Black
Organized chronologically from the Nativity to the Resurrection, the author’s skillful responses lend valuable insight into the childhood and adolescence of Jesus as well as His mortal ministry and atoning sacrifice.
10. When Times are Tough: 5 Scriptures That Will Help You Get Through Almost Anything – John Bytheway
In this uplifting book for all ages, the author shows how power, hope, and perspective are found in the scriptures.
I believe this list is quite telling.
“I suspect our universal failure to know doctrine today is because we do not live as we should. Understanding doctrine is tied to living it. The more you live it, the more you will comprehend it. (John 7: 16-17.) The less you live it, the more elusive it becomes to you. Until at last, you become like Deseret Book, incapable of offering anything other than romance novels, ‘inspirational’ mush, and historical fiction, all with a veneer of Mormon vocabulary. Kitsch and superficiality, more distracting to the reader than edifying to their soul. Making one think there is some good being accomplished by participating, all the while forfeiting the days which might have been better spent.”
Amen!