As 2019 draws to a close, it's the time to look back on the reading year. Thinking through which books were on my mind, the topics I was learning and the people who influenced me.
Looking back also helps me look forward, as I think about what I want to study, learn and grow in for 2020. As I began a lot of seminary reading this year, I wasn't sure what to expect with my 'hobby' reading. I still read a lot of fiction, but this year I hope to spend a little more time in some theology and add a few more biographies, (that's my goal anyway). I will also plan to follow a little more closely, the categories of the 2020 #vtreadingchallenge, which you can find here on Challies' website.
So here it is, my top 10 books of 2019. They are in no particular order. Enjoy!
Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Here's the confession, I have never read the whole series, until this year! It was really great. Full of illustration and challenges for the walk of faith. My daughter was also reading them, so we had a good time chatting about our favourite parts and characters.
Adele Calhoun summons us on a journey, to say yes to the invitations God offers us; to reflect on the honest truths we may hide and ignore. Though the invitation may be difficult at times, there is truth to be gained, and obedience to be practiced, as we follow the Lord on this journey; these choices affect who we are becoming. A great read for reflection on my own spiritual growth this year!
One of my favourite books on organizing life. The first chapters walk through the reasons why we "do what we do", then helps us navigate our priorities, and finally, presents a system to help us organize the ins and outs of life and activities. If you're looking for a new way to organize 2020, give this book a read! And check out my review here.
I am guilty of not reading many biographies, but this was a great book!! Organized into 7 chapters, we meet seven women, each unique in their passions and callings, and we see them participate with God's work in the world through how He gifted each of them.
The True Story of Canadian Human Trafficking by Paul Boge
This was a hard book to read, but important. The Joy Smith Foundation has been working in Canada to increase awareness among parents and teenagers, of the dangers and designs of human trafficking. They follow the story of a young girl who was trafficked, Joy Smith's story of her work in Parliament and the story of a man who stumbled into the trafficking world. I really value the work of her foundation and the insight we receive about the way Canadian girls are lured into slavery.
Even Better Than Eden: Nine Ways the Bible's Story Changes Everything About Your Story by Nancy Guthrie
I really enjoy Nancy Guthrie's writing. This was a new one I picked up, and the theme is that God's story will end better than it began, that God's "story has the power to change everything about our stories." She guides us through central themes of Scripture to show us the beauty and grandeur that will be at the fulfillment of Christ's kingdom.
Embrace: Clinging to Christ Through the Pain of Pregnancy Loss by Liz Mannegren
This is Liz Mannegren's first book, written out of a season of much pain as she experienced miscarriage and infant loss. This book is written in the style of a journal, to help those who read, reflect on their thoughts and emotions as they grieve. It was a wonderful read and an essential tool for those who are walking through pregnancy and infant loss. Check out my full review here.
Lit! A Christian Guide to Reading Books by Tony Reinke
Yes, this is a book about reading...and I loved it! It led me to reflect on my reading habits and guided me towards better thinking about how I read, and what I read. I found it really helpful and purposeful.
I just enjoy Bob Goff. I follow him on Instagram and I am truly challenged by his unabandoned love for people! This was a great read to help inspire you to love people well!
The Advent of the Lamb of God by Russ Ramsey
I really enjoyed this book as a read before Christmas. Russ Ramsey walks us through the redemptive history of the Bible, to help us remember that God's plan for salvation began in the beginning. Read my full review here.
I hope that you've found something of interest from this list! Let me know what you think, and what you have enjoyed this year.
What are your reading goals for 2020?
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