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kcrawfish's review against another edition
4.0
Fearlessness is one of the hardest virtues to cultivate today. This book flies in the face of that using the life of a woman who has learned to live fearlessly.
My heart was in constant tangles reading about this woman's incredible life trusting God, and that's just the thing: we all have the opportunity to live adventures. It's just a matter of trusting God, and saying yes.
Tracy likens our relationship with God to a father throwing his child up in the air, then catching them when they drop - at first it is terrifying, but then as our trust grows, we are soon screaming for him to throw us and catch us again!
Truly a radical, encouraging story. I highly recommend!
My heart was in constant tangles reading about this woman's incredible life trusting God, and that's just the thing: we all have the opportunity to live adventures. It's just a matter of trusting God, and saying yes.
Tracy likens our relationship with God to a father throwing his child up in the air, then catching them when they drop - at first it is terrifying, but then as our trust grows, we are soon screaming for him to throw us and catch us again!
Truly a radical, encouraging story. I highly recommend!
sarah_reading_party's review against another edition
4.0
First of all, I must say that I cannot think of a more appropriate title to this book, because Tracy Evans definitely lives a life filled with outrageous courage. For many people, courage comes in small doses and is applied in situations of [relatively] little import, such as asking someone out on a date, confronting a coworker, etc. For Tracy Evans, her demonstrations of courage are often quite literally involving life and death-risking her physical health, finances, and freedom to share the gospel and Jesus' love. If that's not outrageous courage, I don't know what is.
Initially I was attracted to Tracy's story because she is currently working with HIV+ orphans in Mozambique (southern Africa). Since one of my academic fields of study is Africa, the continent obviously interests me, and I love reading about God's work there. The stories I read about her work in Mozambique (and really, around the globe... but more on that later) are astonishing and miraculous. No better way to put it, and so, even though I was interested in her story of mission work on a continent that I love, this book has taught me so many lessons about faith, even here as an American Christian. So the next three points reflect those lessons, but I do hope you'll check out the book because there are many, many more.
The authors are very clear early on that this book is not to glorify Tracy's life, but rather, God. I appreciate that, because sometimes missions books [or even the Christian media] can blur the line a little bit. It's easy to do in our own lives, as well. So this biography has caused me to consider who I am seeking to glorify in my actions: myself or my God. I hope and pray it is the latter.
Tracy's life has been filled with hardship and struggle, yet she is definitely a woman of joy. She has given her life to God's mission and that has taken her around the world in the US military, in LA, in the Philippines, and in Mozambique. Her story has inspired me to seek joy instead of happiness, to see how the Lord wants to use me and then let my attitude be reflective of that, not my circumstances.
Lastly, this book has challenged me in regard to my spiritual beliefs about the miraculous and supernatural. I don't have time to go into all my personal beliefs about this subject, but I will say that I tend to be more conservative. If you have questions or want to discuss this further, just email me and we'll talk [pajamachef at gmail dot com]. I certainly believe that the stories of God's work outlined in this book are true, and that God works through people in miraculous ways, here and now. However, the circumstances of these supernatural events: healings, provision, etc. were truly miraculous and beyond my realm of easy to believe. This book has given me much to think about and has challenged me to be more faithful, more obedient, and more courageous. I think this is a story that you will love no matter where you are in your faith journey because of the inspirational life that Tracy lives and the way that she prioritizes her beliefs over everything else in life.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and Chosen Books. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House/Chosen Books for the chance to read this great book!
Initially I was attracted to Tracy's story because she is currently working with HIV+ orphans in Mozambique (southern Africa). Since one of my academic fields of study is Africa, the continent obviously interests me, and I love reading about God's work there. The stories I read about her work in Mozambique (and really, around the globe... but more on that later) are astonishing and miraculous. No better way to put it, and so, even though I was interested in her story of mission work on a continent that I love, this book has taught me so many lessons about faith, even here as an American Christian. So the next three points reflect those lessons, but I do hope you'll check out the book because there are many, many more.
The authors are very clear early on that this book is not to glorify Tracy's life, but rather, God. I appreciate that, because sometimes missions books [or even the Christian media] can blur the line a little bit. It's easy to do in our own lives, as well. So this biography has caused me to consider who I am seeking to glorify in my actions: myself or my God. I hope and pray it is the latter.
Tracy's life has been filled with hardship and struggle, yet she is definitely a woman of joy. She has given her life to God's mission and that has taken her around the world in the US military, in LA, in the Philippines, and in Mozambique. Her story has inspired me to seek joy instead of happiness, to see how the Lord wants to use me and then let my attitude be reflective of that, not my circumstances.
Lastly, this book has challenged me in regard to my spiritual beliefs about the miraculous and supernatural. I don't have time to go into all my personal beliefs about this subject, but I will say that I tend to be more conservative. If you have questions or want to discuss this further, just email me and we'll talk [pajamachef at gmail dot com]. I certainly believe that the stories of God's work outlined in this book are true, and that God works through people in miraculous ways, here and now. However, the circumstances of these supernatural events: healings, provision, etc. were truly miraculous and beyond my realm of easy to believe. This book has given me much to think about and has challenged me to be more faithful, more obedient, and more courageous. I think this is a story that you will love no matter where you are in your faith journey because of the inspirational life that Tracy lives and the way that she prioritizes her beliefs over everything else in life.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and Chosen Books. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House/Chosen Books for the chance to read this great book!
danicapage's review against another edition
4.0
My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimers: I received a temporary e-arc of this novel from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I was not obligated to write a good review nor am I receiving any compensation for writing this review.
An Overview of the Novel: This book is a non-fiction,memoir of Tracy Evans. It shares her conversion to the gospel and then her devotion to the gospel. It takes readers through her adventures in different countries and different situations and her experiences in each place.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I normally don't read non-fiction, especially not Christian non-fiction. Several Christians have slightly different beliefs than I do and I don't really like to be preached at. So I had mixed feelings going into this one.
I shouldn't have worried. This tale was actually gripping. There were parts that lagged behind, but Tracy's adventures were just incredible. Read the first chapter of this book and you won't be able to stop reading. It's just that good.
And this is a true story. That's the part that still gets to me. The amazing tales shared in this book actually happen to a person. And even more amazingly, this person is not depicted as perfect, but rather a person simply trying to be better. I also loved that.
This book was pretty much incredible. I'm so glad I took a chance on it.
So why 4 out of 5 stars? I always have a hard time rating non-fiction because I really don't read a lot of it. However, this one was really good. There were parts that lagged as I'm sure there are with many non-fiction books. I thought the organization could have been better in parts, but overall, I adored this book.
In Summary: An engaging tale about an incredible person who is actually a real person. The Vallotton's did an excellent job at relaying one woman's experiences without being preachy.
The Wrap-up: I'd recommend this one. I know some people might be opposed to the beliefs expressed in this book; however, Tracy's story is worth reading even if you aren't Christian. If you like stories about people putting everything on the line for their beliefs, then you'll like this story. It doesn't matter whether you believe what Tracy did or not. It's the inspirational story about
Love,
Danica Page
Disclaimers: I received a temporary e-arc of this novel from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I was not obligated to write a good review nor am I receiving any compensation for writing this review.
An Overview of the Novel: This book is a non-fiction,memoir of Tracy Evans. It shares her conversion to the gospel and then her devotion to the gospel. It takes readers through her adventures in different countries and different situations and her experiences in each place.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I normally don't read non-fiction, especially not Christian non-fiction. Several Christians have slightly different beliefs than I do and I don't really like to be preached at. So I had mixed feelings going into this one.
I shouldn't have worried. This tale was actually gripping. There were parts that lagged behind, but Tracy's adventures were just incredible. Read the first chapter of this book and you won't be able to stop reading. It's just that good.
And this is a true story. That's the part that still gets to me. The amazing tales shared in this book actually happen to a person. And even more amazingly, this person is not depicted as perfect, but rather a person simply trying to be better. I also loved that.
This book was pretty much incredible. I'm so glad I took a chance on it.
So why 4 out of 5 stars? I always have a hard time rating non-fiction because I really don't read a lot of it. However, this one was really good. There were parts that lagged as I'm sure there are with many non-fiction books. I thought the organization could have been better in parts, but overall, I adored this book.
In Summary: An engaging tale about an incredible person who is actually a real person. The Vallotton's did an excellent job at relaying one woman's experiences without being preachy.
The Wrap-up: I'd recommend this one. I know some people might be opposed to the beliefs expressed in this book; however, Tracy's story is worth reading even if you aren't Christian. If you like stories about people putting everything on the line for their beliefs, then you'll like this story. It doesn't matter whether you believe what Tracy did or not. It's the inspirational story about
Love,
Danica Page
sarahs_readingparty's review against another edition
4.0
First of all, I must say that I cannot think of a more appropriate title to this book, because Tracy Evans definitely lives a life filled with outrageous courage. For many people, courage comes in small doses and is applied in situations of [relatively] little import, such as asking someone out on a date, confronting a coworker, etc. For Tracy Evans, her demonstrations of courage are often quite literally involving life and death-risking her physical health, finances, and freedom to share the gospel and Jesus' love. If that's not outrageous courage, I don't know what is.
Initially I was attracted to Tracy's story because she is currently working with HIV+ orphans in Mozambique (southern Africa). Since one of my academic fields of study is Africa, the continent obviously interests me, and I love reading about God's work there. The stories I read about her work in Mozambique (and really, around the globe... but more on that later) are astonishing and miraculous. No better way to put it, and so, even though I was interested in her story of mission work on a continent that I love, this book has taught me so many lessons about faith, even here as an American Christian. So the next three points reflect those lessons, but I do hope you'll check out the book because there are many, many more.
The authors are very clear early on that this book is not to glorify Tracy's life, but rather, God. I appreciate that, because sometimes missions books [or even the Christian media] can blur the line a little bit. It's easy to do in our own lives, as well. So this biography has caused me to consider who I am seeking to glorify in my actions: myself or my God. I hope and pray it is the latter.
Tracy's life has been filled with hardship and struggle, yet she is definitely a woman of joy. She has given her life to God's mission and that has taken her around the world in the US military, in LA, in the Philippines, and in Mozambique. Her story has inspired me to seek joy instead of happiness, to see how the Lord wants to use me and then let my attitude be reflective of that, not my circumstances.
Lastly, this book has challenged me in regard to my spiritual beliefs about the miraculous and supernatural. I don't have time to go into all my personal beliefs about this subject, but I will say that I tend to be more conservative. If you have questions or want to discuss this further, just email me and we'll talk [pajamachef at gmail dot com]. I certainly believe that the stories of God's work outlined in this book are true, and that God works through people in miraculous ways, here and now. However, the circumstances of these supernatural events: healings, provision, etc. were truly miraculous and beyond my realm of easy to believe. This book has given me much to think about and has challenged me to be more faithful, more obedient, and more courageous. I think this is a story that you will love no matter where you are in your faith journey because of the inspirational life that Tracy lives and the way that she prioritizes her beliefs over everything else in life.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and Chosen Books. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House/Chosen Books for the chance to read this great book!
Initially I was attracted to Tracy's story because she is currently working with HIV+ orphans in Mozambique (southern Africa). Since one of my academic fields of study is Africa, the continent obviously interests me, and I love reading about God's work there. The stories I read about her work in Mozambique (and really, around the globe... but more on that later) are astonishing and miraculous. No better way to put it, and so, even though I was interested in her story of mission work on a continent that I love, this book has taught me so many lessons about faith, even here as an American Christian. So the next three points reflect those lessons, but I do hope you'll check out the book because there are many, many more.
The authors are very clear early on that this book is not to glorify Tracy's life, but rather, God. I appreciate that, because sometimes missions books [or even the Christian media] can blur the line a little bit. It's easy to do in our own lives, as well. So this biography has caused me to consider who I am seeking to glorify in my actions: myself or my God. I hope and pray it is the latter.
Tracy's life has been filled with hardship and struggle, yet she is definitely a woman of joy. She has given her life to God's mission and that has taken her around the world in the US military, in LA, in the Philippines, and in Mozambique. Her story has inspired me to seek joy instead of happiness, to see how the Lord wants to use me and then let my attitude be reflective of that, not my circumstances.
Lastly, this book has challenged me in regard to my spiritual beliefs about the miraculous and supernatural. I don't have time to go into all my personal beliefs about this subject, but I will say that I tend to be more conservative. If you have questions or want to discuss this further, just email me and we'll talk [pajamachef at gmail dot com]. I certainly believe that the stories of God's work outlined in this book are true, and that God works through people in miraculous ways, here and now. However, the circumstances of these supernatural events: healings, provision, etc. were truly miraculous and beyond my realm of easy to believe. This book has given me much to think about and has challenged me to be more faithful, more obedient, and more courageous. I think this is a story that you will love no matter where you are in your faith journey because of the inspirational life that Tracy lives and the way that she prioritizes her beliefs over everything else in life.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and Chosen Books. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House/Chosen Books for the chance to read this great book!
abif's review against another edition
5.0
Moving and inspirational, this book will shock you, encourage you, and make you laugh and cry. Full of powerful words and testimonies, I was deeply empowered by this. I am excited to live a life of outrageous courage and absolute dependence on God.
ohiosarah's review
4.0
Most of my readers at my blog know how much I enjoy the inspirational and faith filled stories of missionaries so when I asked to review Outrageous Courage I knew it’d be right up my alley. I’m not sure how much it changed my life and I know it didn’t measure up to being a modern day Pilgrim’s Progress but I will say that it definitely encouraged and inspired me as I read about Tracy’s life as a missionary who overcame a lot to care for many orphaned children and burying many as well as seeing a dead woman come back to life. I know some may doubt her encounters, such as the dead woman who came back to life – but God’s ways are not our ways and He is still working miracles today so the dead coming back is not a far off stretch, even in today’s world.
I would have liked to learn more about Tracy’s life as a child, a bit more of her testimony. I love testimonies, whether they are from those who have been Christian’s all their lives or from those, who like, me had to live the life of hard knocks. If I had to recommend something, should this book ever be re-released it would be that – to add a bit more of Tracy’s life before her stint in the Army and also to make things flow a bit more chronologically. The book is written in the 1st person from interviews done over a week, so some time seems to jump around and it would have been nice to have A, B, and C laid out in that fashion versus the skipping around. I don’t want to sound to harsh about the book, as we are humans, and when we recount details of our lives sometimes we do skip back and relay something out of sorts – but in a book it is hard to tell when we are skipping back or still going forward.
Outrageous Courage deals with the life of a missionary and the threats that come with that, violence, rape, and at one time Tracy was attacked by a dog. I currently have two children who desire to become missionaries and I will be letting both of them read this book, especially my 11 year old daughter, the authors did a great job in describing the events and violence missionaries can encounter but they do it without a lot of graphic details – with the exception of the dead woman come back to life – as Tracy wanted to ensure her readers would know that the woman was dead. Tracy’s transparency is refreshing, even as she admits to struggling and doubting in her faith as well as doubting her worth and she even gives ways that she overcame the obstacles.
**I was given a copy of this e-book from Chosen in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.
I would have liked to learn more about Tracy’s life as a child, a bit more of her testimony. I love testimonies, whether they are from those who have been Christian’s all their lives or from those, who like, me had to live the life of hard knocks. If I had to recommend something, should this book ever be re-released it would be that – to add a bit more of Tracy’s life before her stint in the Army and also to make things flow a bit more chronologically. The book is written in the 1st person from interviews done over a week, so some time seems to jump around and it would have been nice to have A, B, and C laid out in that fashion versus the skipping around. I don’t want to sound to harsh about the book, as we are humans, and when we recount details of our lives sometimes we do skip back and relay something out of sorts – but in a book it is hard to tell when we are skipping back or still going forward.
Outrageous Courage deals with the life of a missionary and the threats that come with that, violence, rape, and at one time Tracy was attacked by a dog. I currently have two children who desire to become missionaries and I will be letting both of them read this book, especially my 11 year old daughter, the authors did a great job in describing the events and violence missionaries can encounter but they do it without a lot of graphic details – with the exception of the dead woman come back to life – as Tracy wanted to ensure her readers would know that the woman was dead. Tracy’s transparency is refreshing, even as she admits to struggling and doubting in her faith as well as doubting her worth and she even gives ways that she overcame the obstacles.
**I was given a copy of this e-book from Chosen in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.
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