Michael D. Young

This is a collection of 24 short histories on popular Christmas carols. Each day contains the lyrics to the song and a QR code to a performance of the song. I found this collection to be highly informative and I learned a lot about some of America’s favorite songs that originated all around the world over the past centuries. I believe that this would be a great read-aloud advent calendar for families with children of all ages and those who just want to learn more about the history of carols.

5 Stars

Content: no issues

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.… (meer)

I’d like to highlight a book that helps to keep you focused on Jesus during Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter, or could be used as additional reflection afterward. That is what we will be doing in my family, because just like Christmas, I’m always sad when it’s over.
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Sacred Days, Sacred Songs by Michael D. Young @mdybyu is the perfect, quick addition to your Easter celebration. Whether you already have full traditions, or you are seeking additional ways to mindfully celebrate, this little book will add to your celebrations in meaningful ways.
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Each day for eight days, this book has a new song suggestion, which helps you to focus more fully on the Savior. Each devotional includes a scripture, the song lyrics, a brief history of the song and composer, as well as meaning of the piece, and a QR code so you can look up the song and enjoy listening to it.
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I love everything about this book. Some of the pieces are familiar, while others are newer to me. Each devotional is brief, lending just the right amount of focus without taking hours to complete.
It’s meticulously researched and well-thought-out. I loved how it was set up.
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Music always provides the ideal backdrop for opening our hearts to understanding deeper spiritual truths, and knowing that makes me love this book all the more. If you’re looking for just the right touch to add to your Easter traditions, I would highly recommend this book.… (meer)

“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.”
- Victor Hugo

I was so excited for this amazing book. I loved Michael D. Young’s Christmas compilation, so when I heard he was writing a similar book for Easter, I couldn’t wait to read it. Sacred Days, Sacred Songs is a beautiful compilation of some of the most favorite & beloved hymns and sacred songs all geared towards celebrating Holy Week.

For each day, beginning with Palm Sunday and ending with Easter, the author shares an attribute of the Savior with corresponding scriptures to ponder, and two hymns or sacred songs including the lyrics and a QR code to listen to the song. He also features a brief history of each song. The Savior’s attributes include: deliverance, compassion, grace, hope, love, sacrifice, obedience, and renewal.

This is definitely something I’m looking forward to sharing with my family during Holy Week to celebrate the Savior’s life, Atonement, and Resurrection. Some of my absolute favorite sacred songs are in this compilation including: The Holy City, O Divine Redeemer, Amazing Grace, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing, and so many more.

Highly recommend this lovely, well written book to all Christians. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.… (meer)