I’m blessed with the ability to read quickly and also with the ability to buy books on Amazon without thinking twice. Ha! I considered doing a “no book buying 2024” to save money, but that just a brief moment of insanity.
Thus, I read a lot of books even in my busy life. I know how much I love a “favorite books of the year” list, so I shall share with you the ones I found most intriguing and worth reading.
As you may note, I’m a heavy reader of non-fiction, though I did venture into a few fiction titles this year. None of them, however, made the “best of” list.
I am about to purchase Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver because I’ve heard *so many* good things about it (and have enjoyed all her other books!)
I probably read at least 50 books this year, but here are the 8 that stand out to me:
The Weight of Air by David Poses
There are a lot of addiction memoirs out there, but I thought this was one of the most well-written ones I’ve come across (and I’ve read a LOT of them.) It’s hard to believe the double life that David Poses lived. I’m thankful he finally conquered his demons, got married and became a father, but was sad to learn he passed away last year soon after his book was published.Genesis of Gender by Abigail Favale
Former feminist professor Abigail Favale does an incredible job with this book, breaking down the illogic behind transgender ideology and what gender really means. I underlined something on every page as she astutely explained (in beautiful prose) why God made us male and female, what it means and how it s unchangeable. This might be my #1 book of the year.Battle for the American Mind by Pete Hegseth
Until 2 years ago, I’d never heard of classical education. I began learning about it and then read this book. Now I’m hopelessly hooked up believing classical is the BEST education and honestly believe every school in the country should be teaching it. This book breaks down the history of the American education system and sheds light on the propaganda that led to where we are today. Read it and you’ll never view education the same again.The Toxic War on Masculinity by Nancy Pearcey
Nancy Pearcey is a pro at deep dives into tough spiritual, theological and philosophical issues. This book did not disappoint. It’s a dense read jammed with statistics, stories and history lessons about how men & women have been shaped in their roles through the Industrial Revolution and beyond. You will find surprising insights and important truths about why we are where we are today.Pray with Me: Help Your Children Engage in Authentic & Powerful Prayer by Erica Renaud
I really enjoyed this book as a mom. I wondered how Erica would fill a whole book about prayer for kids, but she did an excellent job breaking down various aspects of prayer — from preparing your kids for it, to options for fidgety littles ones to ways kids and begin molding their own prayer lives as they get older. Great resource for Christian parents!Sober Spirituality by Erin Jean Ward
There are few good resources out there for Christians dealing with an alcohol problem. Though Erin and I are yards apart in our theology, I found her book to be beautifully-written, insightful and resourceful for the struggling Christian. She is a true writer and the way she wrestles with the soul-level issues we all face is masterful. I loved every bit of this book.All My Knotted Up Life by Beth Moore
Of course I grabbed this memoir as soon as it released! I don’t always agree with Beth Moore’s messaging on certain things, but I have never doubted her genuine love for the Lord. I adore her spunky personality and relatable communication online and it was really cool to read her entire story, something she hasn’t shared much publicly. IT was well-written and I zoomed through — certainly worth reading!You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith
Somehow, I only discovered Maggie Smith this year. She’s the rare poet that I actually want to read. I’m decidedly not a poetry gal, but her words are written in a way my brain can comprehend. This book, which was written in the aftermath of a heartbreaking divorce, just makes you feel seen. It’s simple, really, some fo the words — but they effect you on a soul level. It’s like someone describing something you’ve always felt, but never had the words for.
I can’t let you leave without a shout-out and link to a few other incredible books I had the opportunity to love as well. I’m lucky enough to have author friends — multiple!
Each of these books is wonderful and written with love, God’s guidance and a particular person in mind. Perhaps that’s you!
Live Out Love: Our Witness Speaks Louder Than Our Words by Angelise Schrader
Called to Cultivate: A Gospel Vision for Women & Work by Chelsea Sobolik
Nothing is Wasted: Struggling Well Through Difficult Seasons by Kim Patton
Beyond Our Control: Let Go of Unmet Expectations, Overcome Anxiety, and Discover Intimacy with God by Lauren & Michael McAfee
Jesus & the Characters of Christmas: Who’s Who in God’s Great Plan for Redemption by Daniel Darling (kids book!)
❤️❤️❤️ LOVE YOUR AUTHORS ❤️❤️❤️
*A small note if you make it this far: Writing book is a true labor of love and sacrifice. Take a moment to tell your favorite authors you appreciate what they wrote, LEAVE A REVIEW ON AMAZON & GOODREADS for them, tell others the books that you liked!
*Thanks for reading! If you didn’t know, I am the author of two books! You can show your appreciation for this newsletter by purchasing a copy of one or both of them ;)
Reason to Return: Why Women Need the Church & the Church Needs Women
Leaving Cloud 9: The True Story of a Life Resurrected From the Ashes of Poverty, Trauma and Mental Illness
Have you read The Coddling of the American Mind? It’s a secular perspective that I found quite insightful. I didn’t agree with everything, but it did make me think quite a bit. Just don’t listen within earshot of Littles if you utilize audiobooks as they quote some folks who used profanity. Love the Nancy Pearcy, Abigail Favale, and Peter Hegseth books. I’ll have to check out the others. Thanks for sharing!