AFA Staff

AFA Journal staff reviews movies, books and other resources

Above, In We Served Too, the WASPS receive long deserved recognition for their WWII service.

November 2016 – Story of forgotten WWII patriots
In World War II, the WASPS (Women’s Air Force Service Pilots) were a courageous and highly skilled band of women who flew over 60 million miles of domestic wartime duty within a 2-year period, delivering over 12,000 aircraft. 

WASPS were considered civilians, even though they wore Air Force uniforms, trained the same way men trained, and were subject to the same rules and regulations. In 1942, when an aggressive campaign was launched by male civilian pilots who wanted their jobs, their service was abruptly halted and they were sent home with no veteran status. Their service was kept quiet and out of history for 33 years.

Jill Bond wrote and directed We Served Too to tell the story of the WASPS, their contribution to the war effort, and their struggle for veteran status. It is a deeply moving and inspiring one-hour documentary that will evoke a range of emotions, from pride and appreciation to frustration and maybe even anger. 

For more information, go to wstthemovie.com.
Debbie Fischer

Voiceless 
The new award-winning film titled Voiceless follows the story of Jesse Dean, a recently discharged soldier with a haunting past who was led to Christ by his wife. The couple moves to Philadelphia so Jesse can take the position of community outreach leader at the church in which his wife was raised. Church membership is declining, and it is up to Jesse to reach new members. 

All goes well until he discovers an abortion clinic across the street from the church. He is compelled to put an end to the slaughter house and goes to the church for help. They refuse, as does his wife, so it’s up to Jesse alone to do what is right.

Voiceless is rated PG-13 for thematic material and some violence. To learn more or bring Voiceless to a nearby theater, visit moviegrouptickets.com/voiceless. 
Rebecca Davis

Bringing Up Bates 
UPtv’s reality show Bringing Up Bates features Gil and Kelly Jo Bates and their 19 children, 9 boys and 10 girls, ranging in age from 27 to 4. As one can imagine, their household is full of varied personalities, interests, and energy. 

Gil and Kelly Jo are strong Christians who have instilled Christian values and morals into their children, and their interaction with one another is delightful and heartwarming. 

One of the most enjoyable aspects of watching Bringing Up Bates is seeing how the older children naturally, and without request, interact and help the younger ones. When Kelly Jo accompanies Gil to the hospital for his surgery, the older children take on the responsibility for running the household, caring for the children, and making cards for their father’s homecoming. 

Regardless of the differences in families, Bringing Up Bates is inspiring, encouraging, and very entertaining for all ages and all families. 

Bringing Up Bates airs Thursday nights at 8:00 CT. 
Debbie Fischer

I Am Not Ashamed
Rachel Joy Scott was one of the 13 students who lost their lives in the 1999 Columbine High School shooting rampage. Her legacy lives in the movie I’m Not Ashamed.

It is an inspiring story of a girl who dared to be different. Faith and compassion motivated her, but in her journals, on which the movie is based, Rachel admits that walking with God was a constant struggle for her. 

The film focuses heavily on Rachel’s struggles, so much so that it falls short in showing the work of Christ in her life. Still, there is no doubt that her struggles were real as was her impact on others.

I’m Not Ashamed is rated PG-13 for thematic material, teen drinking and smoking, disturbing violent content, and some suggestive situations. It was scheduled for theater release in October.
Rebecca Davis

Granddad’s Story
Granddad’s Story is a read-aloud family delight. It is the story of four children who grab their bikes and head off on a grand treasure hunt adventure – just as long as they’re home for supper. 

Searching for buried treasure, they learn the values of obedience and honesty. But their adventure turns up some interesting surprises when they meet Miss Mabel and her Bible Club for kids. The four treasure hunters join other neighborhood children, and Miss Mabel presents the greatest treasure of all, salvation
from sin.

Author Roger Deloach makes sure the gospel is clearly presented on a level that will appeal to children. There is a refreshing depth to Granddad’s Story that is often missing in books aimed at children. Available at online booksellers.
Paul Bass

Fruit-Full Kids
Make mealtimes more meaningful with Fruit-Full Kids plates. Created by a mother of four, these BPA-free, dishwasher safe, non-breakable plates feature Bible verses and related designs that foster teachable moments about Christian character.

“Our products resonate with families who are looking for simple, fun ways to be intentional about their parenting,” said Fruit-Full Kids founder Laurie Canata. 

There are 16 plate designs, including all nine fruit of the Spirit, three bonus designs, a birthday plate, and several holiday designs including Thanksgiving and Christmas plates. Individual plates can be purchased for $6.95 each or a set of three plates for $19.95. 

For more information visit fruitfullkids.com or call 855-743-7848. Fruit-Full Kids pledges 10% of net sales to Samaritan’s Purse Fruit Tree Program, which provides needy villages with fruit tree seedlings.
Rebecca Davis