Let’s Talk Books — We’re Past Due!

We usually talk books here on the blog a couple of times each year, but it’s been a little over a year now. (I posted my Want-To-Read List then.) I’d say we’re past due for another book conversation!

I’ve read five of the seven titles from the list I posted last summer. And yes, I’ve read a lot more than just five books this past year :) I tend to get side-tracked by other books that grab my attention or somehow become available to me. Anyone else have that problem? :)

Among the books I’ve read so far this year, the fiction titles I’ve most enjoyed include  Into the Free by Julie Cantrell, Stardust by Carla Stewart (a writer friend of mine who is a great storyteller and can really transport you to another time and place), The Doctor’s Lady  by Jody Hedlund (based on a real woman from history), Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings (based on the story of Ruth from the Bible), and the classic Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.

Most of the non-fiction I’ve read this year have been books on writing and publishing. Some were disappointing, but there are a couple I would highly recommend. Unleash the Writer Within is by Cec Murphey. Cec is an author of over 120 books and is also a well-loved writing mentor. I’ve had the priviliege, in fact, of meeting and learning from him. Cec shares so much wisdom in this book. I love his honesty and invaluable insight.

The other writing/publishing book that rated high with me is Platform – Get Noticed in a Noisy World by Michael Hyatt. It is chock full of good information and tips for any artist, writer, musician, speaker, or entrepenuer. If I implement even part of the advice Michael gives, I’ll make strides in the right direction.

Also, I don’t want to forget God’s Word. What have you been reading in the Bible lately? Right now I’m reading through the Psalms and also working through my blogging buddy Elaine Olsen’s Peace for the Journey Bible study. I’ve found soul-sustaining inspiration and spiritual nourishment from both.

Let’s be sure to leave God’s Word at the top of our Want-to-Read list year round. I don’t know about you, but I never tire of reading it. It’s ever fresh and life-giving, isn’t it?

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

*What books have you read this year that you’d like to recommend? What would you like to read in the coming months?

*Flickr photo by CCAC North Library

Comments

  1. Sounds like you have really been reading a lot of good books!! I will have to check out some of them. I haven’t had a lot of extra time to read this past year but I always start my day with the Word of God.

  2. Alicia, no better way to start your day than with the Word of God. May He bless you as you read!

  3. Oh I loved Elaine’s study. I keep extra on hand to give out to friends. I skip all over the bible for study but one book I am reading now, which sends chills up my spine, is “And the Shofar Blew” by Francine Rivers. Great cleansing for the soul.

    Blessings!

  4. I read a lot of Amish fiction, but I’m growing a little tired of the predictability. I really like anything by Beverly Lewis. I also read a lot of non-fiction and enjoyed Hyatt’s book, along with a recent ebook by Jeff Goins (not sure of the title). I want to read Seth Godin’s “The Dip.” Heard good things about it; not sure when I’ll get to it, but I’m loving my kindle and the ability to take it anywhere and always have something to read.

    peace~elaine
    PS: Thanks for the plug!

  5. I love to hear what other people are reading! I usually get a great tip or two on a new book from blog posts like this! My latest favorites have been: 7 by Jen Hatmaker and The Book Thief (can’t remember the author). I’m in the middle of the Hunger Games right now and I’m really enjoying it. As for Scripture, I’m working my way through the Gospels and being dramatically challenged by the real implications of living as a genuine follower of Jesus. Funny how it only took me 25 years to get that. :)

  6. Nancy, I’ll have to add the Francine Rivers book to my to-read list. I have one of hers waiting for me on my Kindle, too.

    Elaine, I just finished the e-book by Jeff Goins today. It’s called You Are A Writer. Hadn’t heard of The Dip yet. Will have to keep that in mind. (And you’re welcome for the plug! Am enjoying your study!)

    Monica, The Book Thief is at the top of my want-to-read list! Am hoping to find a copy soon. Hunger Games is on the list, too, but I hadn’t heard of 7 yet. Guess I better add that one, too! :) Love how the scripture speaks to us in fresh ways all the time. Thanks for sharing!

  7. Love your reading list – lots of great suggestions. I may need to add one or two to the pile of about eight books sitting on my bedside table, waiting for me to finish at least one. Just like you, Cheryl, I tend to get side tracked and keep adding more books to my wish list.

  8. Oh Mairead, I know what you mean. My to-read list is way too long, and I have lots of free ones on my Kindle as well. Good luck with your stack! :)

  9. You are the third person this week to mention Sixty Acres and a Bride! I think I’m supposed to read that book. Sadly, my reading list is far longer than my available hours to read. ;)

  10. Mine, too, Kirsten. Sounds like you need to make time for Sixty Acres and a Bride, though. Enjoy!

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