A Fine Sight to See: Leading Because You Were Made for It – For Christian Women in Leadership and Church Ministry

by Sophie Hudson

With relatable stories and disarming grace, popular podcaster and author Sophie Hudson cuts through the confusing, differing stances on Christian women in leadership and offers a resource that empowers women to embrace their roles as leaders. Drawing from the book of Exodus, and using her trademark humor, Sophie skillfully helps you· identify the leadership traits you already possess· serve with boldness inside and outside the church· lead faithfully and consistently This is your invitation to embrace leadership with confidence and to find joy in understanding how God sees you. Prepare to be inspired, encouraged, and equipped to embrace the truth that you are uniquely made to lead.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Audiobook, Christian Non Fiction, Memoir, Christian Living

240 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2024

About the author

Sophie Hudson loves to laugh more than just about anything. She began writing her blog, BooMama.net, in November 2005, and much to her surprise, she's stuck with it. Sophie hopes that through her stories, women find encouragement and hope in the everyday, joy-filled moments of life. A graduate of Mississippi State University, Sophie loves cheering like crazy at college football games and watching entire seasons of TV shows in record time. Sophie lives with her husband and son in Birmingham, Alabama.

Reviews

[Jill Langham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I downloaded this book on Audible and loved hearing the author read it, but about halfway through chapter 1, I got back on Amazon and ordered the physical copy too because there was already MUCH I wanted to underline! So many things in this book had me clapping and nodding my head! This book is a lot about freedom - freedom to be who God made you to be and the leader in your sphere of influence that He calls you to be!! Preach on, Sophie! Thanks for saying all the words that many of us needed to hear!

[Crosby Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this! Love Sophie on her podcast but love her even more after reading this! Her writing is fun and honest and brave!

[Polly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having spent the better part of the last 10 years listening to Sophie Hudson (and Melanie Shankle) on the Big Boo Cast, I could easily hear Sophie as I read A Fine Sight to See. Sophie's writing is as comforting and familiar as her voice, and equally wise and delightful. Sophie leans into her sense of humor to lighten what could be a heavy-laden trek through Exodus and the evolution of Moses’ leadership. Whether by encouraging us to set boundaries, seek out our own Jethro for good counsel, or deal with our fears (“It’s a terrible boss and a horrible way to live.”), Sophie called out so many good strategies, inspired by Moses, for leading others with love. Her writing also made me take a fresh look into my life and reframe experiences I hadn’t considered leadership. I’m looking forward to a second read through A Fine Sight, but this time side-by-side with my Bible and markers!

[Kasie Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a long time listener to Sophie Hudson and Melanie Shankle podcast, this book was a no brainer to listen to. Sophie’s comical and realistic take on life, parenthood and fashion always bring a smile to my face! This was a book I grabbed sight unseen. I knew I would gain from Sophie’s take on whatever topic. Her breakdown of Exodus and Moses is fantastic. Her application to our every day lives is appreciated and her sense of humor on often discussed topic made the listening turn to self reflection! Always a fan of anything Big Momma and Boo Mama do!!

[Ella Rosser · Rating 5 out of 5]

“So here’s to the men and women who relentlessly esteem one another, who see one another as partners rather than competition, who enthusiastically steward, their voices and their influence for the glory of God and the good of the great big group, who have no time for putting people in boxes because they’re too busy building bridges.”

I recently had the pleasure of hearing Sophie Hudson speak on the power of female leaders and she is just as delightful and encouraging in person as she is in writing. Her love for her sisters in Christ is moving!

[Ruth Hoehler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved listening to Sophie read this audiobook, as I’ve listened to her podcast for 5+ years now. I don’t agree with her on everything in this book, but she makes very good & thoughtful points. The big win for me is hearing more of her heart, her life’s journey, & gleaning from her wisdom. I’m always happy to learn more about & from my podcast friend. 😊

[Tyra Damm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophie speaks truth to her readers, encouraging them to use their gifts to lead while weaving in lessons and commentary from Exodus.

[Eva Burkholder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fine Sight to See made an excellent companion to my own study of Exodus. I love how the author weaves in her personal story and illustrates the points she draws from Moses’s leadership. I especially appreciate the encouragement to all women to use their gifts to lead others to deliverance.

[Leigh Anne Thurston · Rating 1 out of 5]

I almost did not finish but I kept hoping to get to something good. This book was highly talked about and I had high hopes.

[Katy W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book, and that’s really all there is to it. If you’re finding yourself at a leadership crossroads, I can’t recommend this book enough.

[MacKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book! It is up there as one of my favorite books of the year and I now recommend it to all the women in my life. I made over 50 highlights and was struck by not only Sophie's unparalleled sense of humor but her deep insights into women's leadership. She broaches this topic with care and consideration of the many different views on this topic while still being able to give a compelling point of view on why our voices and gifts matter and should be put to good use. I hav enow also purchased the audiobook for my daughters to listen to. Oh, if only younger women would head these words and learn these lessons before having to relearn them at an older age. This book serves all women, and society, well.

[Lisa Sherrill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This leadership book, through the lens of Moses, the women around him, and the book of Exodus, deserves five stars for its encouraging message and practical takeaways. One of the key messages is simple: You are a leader. Full stop. No amendments. God has entrusted each of us with natural abilities, and it’s important to name these gifts—ask a trusted friend if needed.

The book emphasizes living free instead of in fear, challenging us to replace the lies we tell ourselves with truth. Sophie also prompts us to ask tough questions like, "Do my actions reflect the character of Jesus?" and "Do I understand how my words and actions affect others?" Above all, we are reminded that we want people to see God in us, not just us.

It took me a minute to really get into the book because while I love Sophie’s humor, it didn’t translate as well for me on the page and slowed down my reading. However, once I switched to the audio version, I truly appreciated hearing Sophie’s words in her own voice. This book is full of wisdom, encouragement, and real heart.

[Krystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again -- the only bad thing about a Sophie Hudson book is that it has to end at some point, and it will be a hot minute before there's another. There are only two authors whose books I'll pre-order and pay full price for, time and time again. I don't even have to know what the book is about. Don't even really care. That's Sophie Hudson and Melanie Shankle. As a fellow member of the Enneagram NINE Club, I relate to both Sophie and Melanie so, so much, so reading their writing (as well as listening to their podcast) always fills me with such joy. This book was no exception. Name another author who could write about the life, leadership, and legacy of Moses, and how that leadership applies to our own lives, and make you laugh and giggle and smile the whole way through. Bet you can't. Sophie has such a gift for storytelling, and I'm so grateful she shares that gift with us.

[Alison (readinginazaleawoods)]

✅ Humor
✅ Humility
✅ Southern Charm

This was my first introduction to Sophie Hudson, and I can see why so many people love her! She is hilarious, witty, and smart, and makes you feel warm and welcomed as she shares relatable stories and seeks to encourage and equip you both on your walk with the Lord and in ministry.

In A Fine Sight to See, she uses the book of Exodus to speak to the many lies, fears, and hindrances that keep women from serving in leadership within the body of Christ, and she does so with great grace and humility as she knows that her readers and listeners may have different theological and doctrinal beliefs than her.

Overall, I liked it/thought it was okay. Though I had several takeaways and enjoyed listening to Hudson, I think I would have liked it more had I read the book as part of my daily quiet time versus listening to the audiobook whenever I was running errands or cleaning house. There was a lot to connect and process and I struggled to do that with the way I was listening to it.

One thing to note: At times she does quote from The Message, and therefore, I encourage you to compare these passages to other word-for-word or thought-for-thought translations.

[Jeri May · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first of Sophie’s books to read. I listen to her on the podcast all the time so it was fun to read and hear her voice in my head. She writes just like she talks, just a joy.

I’ve studied the life of Moses several times with BSF, but would never have thought to apply his leadership to women in a broad sense. Surprisingly, it makes sense! Well done.

In fact, I rarely read non fiction. Occasionally, I’ll read one of the Big Boo Cast Patreon book club non fiction picks, but much prefer fiction. I am glad I read this one! I’m looking for the right person to pass it to next!

Thank you, Sophie, for putting yourself out there. I’ve appreciated getting to know you through podcasts and now your writing.

[Kayla Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Sophie Hudson and was so excited to read her newest book. She walks through the first half of Exodus and emphasizes the lessons in leadership we can learn from Moses and the Israelites. Infused with her own sense of humor and personal anecdotes, it feels like the whole book is a pep talk from Sophie about how to lead well and how women are leaders too. The only thing that would have made this book better would have been listening to the audio version so I could hear Sophie read it herself!

[Kristi Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Sophie and her writing since the olden days of blogging. I’ve enjoyed every one of her books and she regularly makes me cackle while listening to her podcast. But I was in no way expecting the depth and the challenge of A Fine Sight to See. With her trademark wit and warmth, she digs deep into the book of Exodus and calls us all to a higher level of leadership, no matter where we find ourselves or whether we even consider ourselves leaders. This book is a treasure and one I can’t wait to re-read, this time with highlighter in hand.

[Bekah Coggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes you pick up a book and think “I like this author and it checks the ‘leadership development’ box for work. Let’s give it a shot.” And you read that book and it’s fine but not life altering or earth shattering. This was not that kind of book. God used Sophie Hudson’s words on the leadership journey of Moses to confirm some things that have been stirring in my heart for a while now and remind me of some truths I had maybe forgotten or set aside. If you find yourself in a growth period of your own leadership, read this book. It will absolutely be worth it.

[Melanie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wish I could split this book in two and give two different reviews. I didn’t know there would be SO MUCH of Moses and Exodus. While I don’t mind a Bible Study, I didn’t realize this book would be one. Over half the book was just talking about Exodus and Moses.

The half that Sophie wrote about her life and leadership was fantastic. But the other ruined the book for me. This hurts to write because I love Sophie Hudson and her writing, but couldn’t enjoy Exodus as part of my leisurely summer reading.

[Carolyn Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Sophie Hudson’s writing! I have ever since I read her first book, “A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet.” Her books are always full of Southern sass, a heart for women, and a love for Jesus; this book about Moses’ leadership is no exception. In this book for women in leadership, specifically Christian leadership, she demonstrates Christ’s love and leaves it to the Holy Spirit to work out denominational differences; her book abounds with love for women and is devoid of name-calling and criticism for differing beliefs. This book was truly refreshing and a joy to read.

[Risa Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I’ve loved her podcast for years, this is the first book of Sophie’s I’ve read. It was such an honest, refreshing, and encouraging walk through the life of Moses and leadership. I enjoyed her casual approach mixed with tons of scripture that point to how God has shaped her life through the truths she shared. I left encouraged and spurred on to study Exodus in more detail. Highly recommend!

[Sasha Says · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been listening to author Sophie Hudson's podcast for years, enjoying her wisdom and humor. A Fine Sight to See was filled with that and more. I've always thought of Exodus as a bit daunting, but I so appreciated the leadership lessons she shared using scriptures and stories from the chapter of Exodus. I especially enjoyed her personal stories and found myself nodding emphatically and highlighting my ebook with abandon. What a joy this book was!

[Brandy Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie does it again! Her books are the perfect blend of authenticity, belly laughs, and Biblical wisdom!
This book on leadership couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time. Being the Director of a Christian non-profit, I just yesterday was faced with an issue that had me questioning everything. Picking up this book today was the encouragement I needed at exactly the right time!!
Thank you, Sophie!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Challenging, encouraging, insightful and lovely. Oh if all the books I read could make my heart feel as full as this one has. I laughed and cried and enjoyed myself thoroughly. I also learned so very much about God’s design for us as His own. We were meant to lead, no matter what our daily life looks like. After reading this book I feel much more confident in my unique abilities to love others. Thank you Sophie for allowing Jesus to use you!

[Kathy Spann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was already a fan of Sophie Hudson and buy all her books. So I knew I would love it. But I didn’t realize I would dog ear nearly every page, because the words resonated with me so much. I didn’t know that I would be nodding along as I read. Yes, I was saying in my mind and heart. I think that, too. Feeling a release from feeling bad about questioning so many things of church rules and standards. Thanks Sophie!!

[Chrisann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this book(challenging at times with an extreme southern accent that I actually grew to love) but it was excellent. I’m going to order the book because there are some things that I want to sit in longer and think about. She explores the topic of leadership through the life of Moses. I heard some things that I truly needed to hear right now and that were immensely encouraging. At the end, I was left wanting to study Exodus again and loving Jesus more. To me - that’s 5 star.

[Donna Self · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie Hudson has done it again! Using the Exodus narrative and her own life stories she makes us sit up and pay attention to God’s Word, to see more clearly the parallels between us and Moses, his family and the Israelites. We get a better understanding of God’s call and character to lead well. I laughed. I cried. I was challenged and encouraged. And when she prayed for the reader at the end, I felt blessed and sent by a fellow southerner and sister in Christ. A fine book to read.

[Kelli Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t love Sophie Hudson and her writing style more if I wanted to! This book, much like her podcast and previous books are so much fun—honest and tbh ought provoking (maybe liven a little convicting in the best way)! Sophie writes with such conviction, honesty and love. Her references to her Southern background will make you belly laugh! I am so intrigued with Moses and cannot wait to dive into The Bible to learn even more about his faithfulness and adoration to our Father.

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was a DNF for me. I tried reading it, and it read like someone’s journal. Thoughts meandered all over the place. I thought it might be an easier listen, so I got the audiobook. I was wrong. It’s just as bad. If you took out all the “I’m a simple girl” self-deprecating “humor” and mid-thought tangents, I’m not sure how many pages this book would have. One and done, lesson learned. (Well, technically, two and done, but that second one’s on me.)

[Nicole Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I went into it interested in seeing what she thought, but was preparing for more of a drama filled depiction of women leadership. Instead it was a lovely, thoughtful, respectful breath of fresh air. I so enjoyed the Old Testament insights paired with Southern vibes and humor I really enjoyed. I can see how this book might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I absolutely loved it.