Theologian and pastor Leithart (Defending Constantine) presents a complex biblical view of empires and a critical approach to American political and commercial imperialism. Starting with the prototypical empires of Babel and Abraham, Leithart argues that both the Old and New Testaments do not oppose empires. Rather, God approves of empires when they support Israel and the Kingdom of God. The author further argues that early American leaders created a civil religion touting America as the new Israel, with the goal of world-wide liberty. The peril of this approach lies in allowing Americans to imagine the country a righteous empire justified in its wicked imperial actions. The solution, for Leithart, is to repent of and repudiate this civic religion. This process, only briefly laid out, involves divorcing the civic from the religious in symbols and celebrations and increasing the strength and influence of Christian churches. Leithart's argument at times seems to meander, and a greater emphasis on the solution to American imperialism and exceptionalism would help readers feel more equipped to counter its evils. Overall, though, the work offers a picture of how far America falls short of being what it claims. (June)

A talented journalist and an exceptional psychiatrist team up to write a slim but engrossing volume about the experience of the Bosnian war and the possibility of healing from torture and other trauma. The story is mostly the psychiatrist's: he is a Bosnian native who was interned in six concentration camps in 1992 and 1993, alongside thousands of other Muslims in one of the worst human rights atrocities of the late 20th century. The first half of the book describes Boškailo's life before and during the war; the second half focuses on his recovery in the United States and his calling to help others as a psychiatrist in Chicago and, later, Phoenix specializing in trauma recovery. Lieblich's prose is supple and straightforward. The book does not delve into the social and political forces that led ostensible neighbors to turn so viciously on one another. Instead it offers a compendium of best practices for treating wounded souls, relying heavily on the work of Holocaust survivor Victor Frankl. Mental health professionals, as well as human rights activists working for healing and reconciliation in trouble spots across the globe, will appreciate this guide. (Apr.)

Raising children is not easy, so moms and dads need to find a way to laugh at their chaotic lives in order to remain sane. Fortunately, Piatt (Banned Questions About the Bible), a popular author and commentator on contemporary Christianity, has mastered the art of self-deprecating parent humor. Facing their second pregnancy, the author and his wife begin to adjust their lives to welcome a sibling for their toddler son, whose energy wears them out almost daily. While serious about his faith, Piatt is refreshingly irreverent and never attempts to candy-coat the gritty and authentic aspects of life, from sex to arguments with one's spouse to changing diapers and cleaning up vomit. This is not only a memoir of pregnancy, but it is also a splendid guide for parents who may feel at times that their life challenges are insurmountable. The spiritual discourse flows naturally--nothing is forced or artificial. Piatt offers a gracious service by recounting how he and his wife mange to stay somewhat grounded while taking the crazy leap into parenthood for the second time. Regardless of faith background, novice and veteran parents alike will find consolation and a lot of laughs. (Apr.)