What Are You Reading, and Why?

What Books Are You Reading?

Someone’s always asking on Facebook, “What books are you reading right now?” So in today’s blog, I’m answering that question and giving you an opportunity to do the same.

Why? No one’s paying me to promote their books. I’m not trying to get you to read certain author’s books. I just love to read, I enjoy learning, and I believe that books, through the power of God’s Spirit, do have power to inspire, change and encourage lives. Through the years, books have not only encouraged me; they’ve helped to mentor me and keep me grounded in my faith and Christian walk. And as a writer, the things I read always enrich my writing.

Why Read?

Sometimes I read for inspiration; sometimes for pleasure. Other books I read for instruction, to broaden my world, to increase my skills, or to strengthen my spiritual life. Why do you read?

I’d like to share with you some of the 100 + books I’ve read in the last year or so. At least that’s how many I remembered to write down. These are not in any order of importance, urgency, favorites, or recommendation. Some are older, some newer books. Some may interest you; others won’t.

There is no book like the Book–God’s Word. That’s a given. But accept today’s post in the spirit in which I write it: to offer you some sources that might encourage you in whatever area you need. And at the end of this blog, be ready to offer your own suggestions about what books you’re reading so we can learn from each other.

Fiction

1. Books by Bodie and Brock Thoene

I first fell in love with the Thoene’s books years ago as they wrote historical fiction involving World II and Jewish history. I’ve read almost all of their books and recently completed their 12-book series: the A.D. Chronicles. Again, these involve Jewish history, but also rich, biblical fiction involving Jesus’ life and the ones He touched. I just read The Gathering Storm, a fascinating story of a woman’s journey and survival during the Holocaust. The Thoene’s books never cease to amaze and inspire me, and always draw me closer to God.

2. Books by Dee Henderson

I discovered Dee’s romantic suspense novels last year, and loved every one I read–all 11 of them. Just a few to mention: True Valor, True Honor, The Rescuer, The Witness, The Negotiator, Before I Wake. Page turners with solid Christian message.

3. Books by Karen Kingsbury

I’ve read most of Karen’s books–about 20+ last year. Great relationship, inspirational fiction with flawed characters who find God’s answers, even in the most difficult places. You’ll get attached to her characters and their families as she draws you into their world. Too many books to list. Her books will take you to 9-1-1, to Hollywood, or to a typical family’s living room. You’ll find her character’s problems may hit close to your own home, but you’ll always leave with fresh hope for your journey.

4. Books by Joel C. Rosenberg

I found Joel’s political thrillers last year. Literal page turners that left me coming back for more. I’ve never read anyone’s fiction that took me into the future with such reality. Some even questioned Joel about his inside source–because some of the world and Mid-East events that actually happen after the realease of each book seem too close to what he actually wrote about. Once I started his books, I couldn’t put them down. A few to name: The Last Days, the Ezekiel Option, The Copper Scroll, Dead Heat, The 12th Imam.

5. Books by Teri Blackstock

Great writer. Great Christian fiction. Three I read this past year: Cape Refuge, Southern Storm, and Intervention.

6. Books by James Scott Bell

I read some of his books for the first time this past year. A best-selling writer of historical suspense and contemporary thrillers with heady issues, he’ll definitely keep you turning pages. A few I read: Deadlocked, Deceived, and The Whole Truth.

7. Books by Ray Blackston

I found a couple of Ray’s books by accident, but really enjoyed the humorous, quirky characters in two of his first books: Flabbergasted and A Delirious Summer. Singles will especially enjoy some of his books.

Non-Fiction

1. Choosing to See, by Mary Beth Chapman.

I had to grab a tissue to complete this one, as Mary Beth, wife of Steven Curtis Chapman, told of their family’s journey through the death of their precious, adopted, Chinese daughter. Mary Beth is down-to-earth and funny, but you will definitely walk with her through this painful experience. But you’ll also see God’s faithfulness and goodness at work and sense hope and purpose throughout her book.

2. Rachel’s Tears, Rachel Smiles, and Journals of Rachel Scott by Beth Nimmo and Darrell Scott)

You don’t have to read these books to see the profound impact of Columbine martyr and teenager Rachel Scott. Her death is literally changing lives–and schools– as her written principles of living with compassion and forgiveness are being implemented in schools around the country. These books will not only inspire you; they will move you to action.

3. Facing Terror by Carrie McDonnell

The story of a young missionary wife’s survival from the hands of mideastern terrorists brought both tears and gratitude to my heart.

4. Torn Veil by Gulshan Esther

An older book still selling copies is the amazing story of a young Muslim woman who left everything to follow Jesus. After I read this book, my thoughts were, “God forgive me if I ever complain about anything again.”

5. Tozer on the Almighty God, compiled by Ron Eggert

I’ve enjoyed this book of A. W. Tozer‘s compiled writings so much that I’m reading it for the third time this year–only this time, my husband is reading one chapter a day with me at breakfast. I love all of Tozer’s writings, but these meditations on the character of God keep helping me see God greater each time I read them. Powerful devotional thoughts that lead me straight to God’s presence!

Okay, there are so many more books I want to “share” with you. So let’s make this a two-part blog. If I can, (in between reading–and writing) More fiction, more non-fiction, including some “issue” books that might be helpful to you.