Enter this provocative collection of inspirational and often amusing anecdotes, one-liners, poems, and parables, and share in the "Inspirations of Artichokes" and "The Strength of a Child," learn to recognize "A Living Thief" and a "Burma Buddhist," and experience the self-realization of "The Gossiping Preacher."

These 201 gentle lessons in faith, love, and Christian living will touch your heart and tickle your funny bone.

The volume includes a handy topical index, and is perfect for pastors and laypersons who need a humorous or poignant anecdote, an illustration for a sermon or speech, a short message for a bulletin or newsletter -- or a ray of sunshine on a rainy day.

Charles W. Byrd is manager of Cokesbury Books and Church Supplies, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, a division of the United Methodist Publishing House. He attended Berea College and the University of North Carolina and is a graduate of Wake Forest University and Duke Divinity School.