Of the four new donations to the Cornerstone Library, this is the one to focus on. I bought this book early this year because I was interested in the relatively obscure Baptist John Ryland. The "letters" aspect of the book didn't immediately appeal to me. But I was surprised at how interesting, and then how compelling, the book is. It may be my personal "Book of the Year". Why is it so good?

• This is counsel, wise and godly, from the famous English pastor Newton (1725-1807), author of "Amazing Grace", t his 28-year younger pastor friend. It is mostly in response to quandaries Ryland brings up, and it can be applicable to our own situations.
• All the letters are from one person to the other prson, so we get to know them both.
• The editor fills in the contexts of the letters so that it is easy to see how they fit these men's lives
• Some of these letters are about especially interesting subjects, for example, how to find a wife, and the politics of the American Revolution - for some of this period a current event.
• Many other interesting people of the time are brought in. Keep your eyes on the little-known laypeople John Thornton and Hannah More.