Counting Candles

by Dustin W Bradshaw

[sstaley]

Anyone that reads my blog knows that I read A LOT of books! I read books that entertain me, books that enrich me and then there are books that are life-changing. Counting Candles is life changing. The message that readers will gain from reading this book, I can ensure you, will change the way that you view your own life. There is NO way that this book won't change your heart.

I know I needed to read this book right now. I have been going through some of what the main character, James Smith, has. James is turning 40 and wondering if his life has been meaningful. Has anything he's done made a difference at all? I think all of us wonder this at some point, regardless of what we have done with our life's work. This novel looks into the people that James loves, knows, doesn't know well and with whom he associates with. James is a good man, very average, married and a good father. As he looks around him,it seems like everyone else has been more successful and productive than him in life. This novel has an "It's a Wonderful Life" flavor to it; not exactly the same storyline, but the same idea. I don't want to give too much of the story away, because this is a book that you must experience on your own. Here are the best reasons why I think everyone should read this book:

-It will change your mind and heart.
-It will give you an attitude adjustment.
-It will bring you to tears several times as you read.
-There are fabulous characters in this story. This is one of the best things in the story...great characterization!!
- You will see how the small things in life, a smile, a thank you, a small deed of service, can mean the world to someone else.

I know that there is some controversy about how many books are getting 5 star reviews these days. But honestly, with all my heart, this books deserves 6 stars!! This book needs to be nominated for a Whitney Award and that is exactly what I'll be doing. I highly recommend Counting Candles for everyone!! Thank you Dustin for writing a book that I will read again and again. I needed this mind and attitude adjustment and I'll forever be grateful for this gift.