In keeping with tradition, here’s a collection of books I enjoyed and/or found helpful this year.
(For the 2020 list, click here, 2021 here. 2022 here, 2023 here, 2024 here)
As always, here’s the fine print:
If I say that I “enjoyed” a book, that does not mean that I fully endorse the authors or volumes listed. To me, “enjoyment” means I found it helpful, interesting, thought provoking and/or well written. There may be questionable content or language that some might find offensive. You’ve been warned.
All the links shared (click the picture of the book) go to Amazon. Amazon is a retail behemoth. If you prefer to shop smaller and/or local, you can support a local bookstore like Peregrine Book Company, or the wonderful people at Hearts and Minds books in Pennsylvania. They can order them for you. Support small. Support local.
You can always check the local library. Some of the titles are available in Yavapai County!
If you read one of the books below or have a personal favorite, I’d love to hear your thoughts on it. Let’s get coffee.
Fredrik Backman knows how to write. This novel explores friendship, loss, grief, and love. One of my (new) favorite novels.
Author Allen Levi (Theo of Golden) writes a compelling account about his brother’s life after a diagnosis of inoperable brain cancer. Keep the tissues close.
At Mike Gaston’s recommendation, Union purchased and gave away a few these. David Gibson writes a simple and profound take at the God behind Psalm 23. A refreshing look on the nature and character of God.
I don’t know why it took me 39 years to finally read the Grapes of Wrath, but it was worth it. A Steinbeck classic. Interesting chapter structures, and the reflection on banks in Chapter 5 is worth the price of admission.
Michael Goheen’s latest book felt like re-living my few years of seminary in the Goheen living room. A readible and accesible volume on the gospel, discipleship and mission today.
Some Others:
Hampton Sides - The Wide Wide Sea and Blood and Thunder - Hampton Sides writes history that is as readible and interesting as a novel. A book about Captain James Cook’s final voyage and another on the conquest of the American west.
Zach Eswine - Wiser With Jesus - Eswine’s writing is a little different and takes some getting used to, but this book is worth a shot. He gives an approach to wisdom and Jesus that is helpful for today.
Ruth Chou Simmons - Now and Not Yet - Anthony recommended this one and it was worth it. Ruth places really helpful theology into the longings of everyday life. As a bonus, she recently released “Way of the Wildflower” that has excellent art, reflection and prayers. (shoutout Lauren Bauer for that one!)
Stanley Hauerwas - Jesus Changes Everything - Though I don’t agree with all of my Methodist brother’s theology…This compilation of reflections/devotions is some of Hauerwas’s greatest hits.
Allen Levi - Theo of Golden - Allen Levi’s first novel isn’t perfect, but it’s really, really good.