1. The Good & Beautiful Life by James Bryan Smith--this author is new to me. This book is the 2nd in his "Apprentice Series." I skipped the first one, but I just might have to go back and get that one next. This is a great read. I'm reading it devotionally--one chapter per day. It has great questions scattered throughout the book and then application exercises, along with a group study guide. Awesome book on living in the Kingdom of Christ.If you like Dallas Willard and Richard Foster, this is a must read!
2. Surprised by Joy, by CS Lewis--Okay, this one is not as much an "easy read" as the other, but it is chock full of great insight into the life and personal journey of CS Lewis. If you ever wondered how he went from being a staunch atheist to a totally surrendered follower of Christ, this book will tell you that, along with so much more. I have to tell you, although I hate to admit it, I need a dictionary close by while reading this. It's expanding my vocabulary a bit and hopefully taking me up to a new reading level. :-)
3. Souvenirs of Solitude by Brennan Manning--GREAT devotional read. Brennan shares honestly and transparently his own struggles and his own pain. He also shares his humor, which I love. There are stories, insights, and challenges that have touched me deeply. I may just hang on to this one and read it through again.
4. Daily Insights, One Year Devotional Guide by Zig Ziglar and Ike Reighard--this is just what it says. It is a 1 year devotional guide. The thing I love is that, although we're already half way through 2010 (can you believe it?), you can pick up today and keep on going. Each entry stands alone, so you can start anytime. Love that! I also love that it's Zig Ziglar and Ike Reighard--great, great insights and teaching packed into short, daily reads. They also include quotes at the end of each devotion, and I'm a sucker for those!
I also have some other books I'm reading, but I'm not ready to tell you if I recommend them or not. I did read a fiction book recently and really didn't see what all the fuss was about, but I'll keep that to myself. Mom always said, "if you can't say something nice..." ;-)
Happy Reading everyone! If you happen to have read any of these already, or if you get a chance, let me know what you think. Also, what books would YOU recommend I read? I'd love to hear from you!
