Not your average list…
I am under no delusions this will be a comprehensive list. In fact, that is not my goal.
Think of this list as a walled place of safety, but without much furniture or decor.
These authors, these books are meant only as a jumping off place for you. It is your job to learn how to be a discerning reader, and these books can provide a training ground. Whether you are looking to guide young readers into developing healthy reading apetites or you yourself are wanting goals to work towards, I would love to be your guide into the realm of words.
Some of these books are written for children, some for teens, and a few specifically for moms, but most of them are to be enjoyed by a wide variety of ages. Content warnings will give you a head’s up where applicable, but don’t let those scare you off. Many a missionary biography has tragedy and suffering. It is the way those events are written about that makes the bigger difference. You will find many classics, as well as a handful of rom-coms. Theology, fantasy, and love stories all make up the imaginative tapestry of our creative beings, and I firmly believe in a well-rounded reading apetite. Enjoy!
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
Life-altering.
That’s what this nonfiction book has been for me.
Practical means for change and steep challenges to live life more fully, more intentionally, less hurried and harried.
Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt
Gary D. Schmidt. He is now, in my mind, of the same genius as Charles Dickens. His writing is gorgeous, and it creeps up behind you when you’re not looking.
Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
It’s light-hearted but by the end, it’s deep. And beautiful. And moving. I teared up twice in the last third of the book
A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus
So many words so little space.
Beyond Mere Motherhood by Cindy Rollins
No matter what mood you’re in or what stage of motherhood, this book should be on your shelf.
Far From the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
Reading a new author can be a scary thing.
Chosen of the Tapestry by Laura Cheever
The Endurance by Alfred Lansing
This is a book I will continue to recommend on repeat.
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
Originally intended for a newspaper audience, these stories are great ones to read out loud or side-by-side with your older kids.
Whose Waves These Are
The rough Maine landscape paired with the soft-hearted love found in these characters’ lives was so refreshing.