I’ve shared my Top 10 Christian Non-Fiction Books of 2019, and now it’s time to share the Best Books of 2019 in the other genres. The genres I’m covering are Christian fiction, fiction, historical fiction, nonfiction, biography, Classic Middle Grade, and picture book. Here we go!

Best Books of 2019

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Christian Fiction | Best Book

How the Light Gets In by Jolina Petersheim

This is the best Christian fiction I’ve read in ages. I’m treading carefully so I don’t give spoilers. Generically speaking: a widow comes to terms with the losses in her life with the help of her husband’s family. Let’s just say I did not get exactly what I expected with this book. In a good way.

Fiction | Best Book

A Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum

This is the riveting story of three Palestinian women–immigrants to the US–written from the perspective of the daughter. It took my breath away with its culture of violence, oppression, and shame. The story examines the culture of arranged marriage and lack of voice for women–and to a lesser extent men–in the strictest of sects. Very good. Very.

I ordered this book pre-publication from Book of the Month. If you are interested in joining, here is my referral link. You can get your first book for $9.99, and I will receive a credit for a free book when you use my link.

Historical Fiction | Best Books of 2019

Resistance Women by Jennifer Chiaverini

If you enjoy historical fiction, you will want to get your hands on this book. Highly researched, this story is based almost exclusively on real-life men and women who fought the rise of Hitler at the gravest risk. Riveting. Eye-opening. Highly recommended.

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris

I couldn’t choose only one World War II novel, so here is another. This is based on a true story and is both anguished and moving. It’s a story of pain, fear, desperation, and love that fights through incredible odds. Understandably, it does contain some language and violence.

There is now a companion novel called Cilka’s Journey. I haven’t yet read it, but will.

Nonfiction

Just Mercy: A Story of Injustice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson

My daughter-in-love recommended this book to me months ago, but I kept putting it off.

You do not want to put it off.

This is the true story of the lawyer who founded the Equal Justice Initiative, showcasing the fact that the justice system is not always just. I’m not going to sugar coat it: this is a hard read. Hard but beautiful. I loved the exploration of mercy and justice.

We haven’t yet seen the movie. Have you?

Biographies | Best Books of 2019

Once again, I couldn’t choose just one…and in fact, I’m kind of sneaking in three. I’m a fan of biographies and memoirs, and this was a good year for those.

The Good Neighbor: The Life and Word of Fred Rogers by Maxwell King

Mr. Rogers. I am a huge fan. The lessons he teaches about kindness and dignity are so needed in today’s world, aren’t they? This book is a beautiful portrait of a beautiful man. Highly recommend!

Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Movie

Have you seen the movie? We thought it was stunning, and I can’t wait to purchase. If you’ve seen it, I’d love to discuss.

Some Writer! The Story of E.B. White by Melissa Sweet

Spectacular and riveting biography of children’s writer E. B. White. It is colorfully illustrated and full of photographs and memorabilia. As a lifelong lover of his work, I was completely absorbed by this book. Highly recommended for all fans of children’s literature.

The Matriarch: Barbara Bush and the Making of an American Dynasty by Susan Page

I couldn’t neglect to give this book an Honorable Mention. What a picture of a strong, intelligent woman and the influence wielded by a wife and mother. It’s great to see the curtain thrown back to reveal the powerful woman behind the powerful men. I love how she refused to be “spin-doctored” into the image others demanded.

Classic Middle Grade

The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary

My grands loved this Read-Aloud when I visited them at the beginning of the year. A lovable mouse and a friendly boy have charming adventures with a toy motorcycle. This is book is the first of a three-book series starring Ralph the Mouse.

Picture Book

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

I love everything about this board book! First, the illustrations are bright and inviting. Plus, I love interactive storytelling with young children. This type of book engages even the youngest child and encourages discussion of the story. The child will drag items from the cupboard to the shelf, be invited to mix ingredients, and participate throughout the book. This encourages excitement about books and a love of reading.

More Interactive Board Books

Don’t Push this Button

Tap the Magic Tree

Press Here

Mix It Up