Good Books | 11 Reading Recommendations

Good books! I’ve got good books to recommend! Here are eleven books I’ve really enjoyed over the past couple of months, including a picture book that I think every toddler should receive as a gift. Because it is so adorable. Actually, I’m hoping someone gives it to me as a gift.

You think I’m joking. But I’m not.

If you’re in search of fiction, historical fiction, non-fiction, Christian fiction, Christian non-fiction, or a picture book…I have suggestions for you!

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Good Books: Non-Fiction

Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevensen

This is the true story of the lawyer who founded the Equal Justice Initiative. It is a hard but beautiful read, a book that taught me, engaged me, and expanded my heart. I loved this exploration of mercy and justice. The movie based on this book will be opening soon, and I recommend you read the book first. There is also an adaptation for teens, which you will find linked here.

“Finally, I’ve come to believe that the true measure of our commitment to justice, the character of our society, our commitment to the rule of law, fairness, and equality cannot be measured by how we treat the rich, the powerful, the privileged, and the respected among us. The true measure of our character is how we treat the poor, the disfavored, the accused, the incarcerated, and the condemned. We are all implicated when we allow other people to be mistreated.”
― Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption

When Less Becomes More: Making Space for Slow, Simple, and Good by Emily Ley

We live in a world of too much. Too much of everything. Connection, communication, possessions, and commitments. And in our homes, the overflow looks likes stuff.” –Emily Ley

A beautiful, sweet, and encouraging book that guides us to sift through the confusion and focus on what really matters.

I especially love the “Continuing the Journey” section at the end, which is full of book and music recommendations and ways to celebrate your family and curate your home.

Good Books: Christian Non-Fiction

Rhythms of Renewal: Trading Stress and Anxiety for a Life of Peace and Purpose by Rebekah Lyons

This book is full of practical ideas to encourage us to rest, restore, connect, and create. I highly recommend this read about choosing peace in a culture of stress and overwhelm. The reflection questions at the end of each chapter are so helpful. You can also purchase a study guide companion book.

Safe and Sound: Standing Firm in Spiritual Battles by David Powlison

Not just for a few odd or bizarre moments, but in every moment of every day we are in a battle or who we will serve.” –David Powlison

I highly recommend this book.

This last work of David Powlison was written as he was battling Stage 4 cancer. My copy is highlighted and has notes all over the margins. This is not just a treatise on spiritual warfare, but a battle call to actively take light to the darkness. We are reminded that spiritual warfare is a battle for Lordship. Every moment we are in this battle for who we will serve. Only we can make that choice. This is a call to choose wisely.

I recommend without reservation each of David Powlison’s books.

Back Roads to Belonging by Kristen Strong

There’s just no way to get around it: making friends is hard. Expanding our belonging place is hard. It takes purpose and effort. It takes work. Quite often it takes more time than I’d like.

There’s also no way to get around this: it’s always worth it to keep working at it.” Kristen Strong

As a military wife, Kristen Strong has moved a lot. She has struggled to find a place of belonging.

Oh, how I relate to this struggle. This practical and encouraging book will bring peace and help to you as you travel “unexpected paths to finding your place and your people.”

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made: The Marvel of Bearing God’s Image by Dr. Paul Brand and Philip Yancey

This World magazine 2019 Book of the Year is an updated and combined edition of two of the authors’ previous works. Dr. Paul Brand was a missionary to India, a physician specializing in the treatment of leprosy. This book marvels at the intricacies of the human body, and makes spiritual applications to our faith life. What a powerful book.

Historical Fiction

The German Girl by Armando Lucas Correa

My favorite type of historical fiction weaves together dual time settings. This book is based on true events from WWII and tells the story of generations of one family seeking peace and acceptance. Warning: the book (in my opinion) begins oddly…almost off-putting. I almost put it aside, but am glad I didn’t. Persevere!

Good Books: Fiction

Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories by Agatha Christie

She’s elderly and kind and apparently harmless. She knits and loves a good cup of tea and a bit of gossip with her neighbors.

And she has a mind like a steel trap.

I love Miss Marple, and this collection of short stories is so fun.

I recommend reading it on a chilly, rainy day along with a perfectly brewed pot of English Breakfast Tea.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

A haunting story of abandonment, rejection, and loss–and how these losses impact a boy and his protective older sister. This book explores questions of ethics, love, forgiveness, and the accuracy of our childhood perspectives. If you are thinking of starting a book club…this would be an ideal selection. There is a lot to discuss here.

It does have some language.

Good Books: Christian Fiction

Window on the Bay by Debbie Macomber

A quick, light read. I enjoyed the sweet love story, and I really related to the main character’s Empty Nest angst. Hoo boy.

Underestimating Miss Cecilia by Carolyn Miller

If Regency writer Georgette Heyer and early 20th century Christian author Grace Livingston Hill collaborated, this novel would be the result. Light-hearted, charming, melodramatic, and containing a strong Christian message, I think you’ll enjoy this one. I’m looking forward to digging into the other books in the Regency Brides series.

Board Book

Stir Crack Whisk Bake: A Little Book About Little Cakes by America’s Test Kitchen

Oh. My. Heart.

This book is adorable! I cannot get enough of it. The illustrations are gorgeous and so cute, and each page invites your child to be actively involved. “Use your finger to whisk the ingredients!”

Truly. So much fun.