6 Books I Want to Read This Year
I have a stack of books on my desk…and the side table in my office…and my nightstand…and another stack on the floor. I’m a bit unrealistic about the time I actually have to read in a day, but I still can’t help surrounding myself with good books. Maybe you can relate.
So, I thought I’d share a few books that are on my shelf (or soon will be). Some of these have been out for a while, some are newer. But I think all of them will be worth reading, and I can’t wait to dive in.
What about you? What are you reading these days? What should I add to my reading list? Leave me a comment to let me know!
1. The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration by Isabel wilkerson
I just started this book, and I’m completely enthralled. Wilkerson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, tells the stories of black citizens moving north during the Great Migration. It’s a beautiful book that combines captivating stories and fascinating research. I’m not done with it yet, but I think it’ll probably go on my list of books everyone needs to read in their life.
2. Becoming All Things: How Small Changes Lead to Lasting Connections Across Cultures by Michelle Ami Reyes
My dear friend, Dr. Michelle Ami Reyes, is releasing her first book this spring! I’ve gotten to take an early peek at some of the content in this book, and it’s such a helpful resource for navigating cross-cultural relationships.
Michelle’s perspective as an Indian American women, scholar, speaker, and activist is invaluable. Through personal stories, looking at Scripture, and discussing topics like stereotyping, appropriation, gentrification, and more, Michelle gives readers the knowledge and tools to make small changes that really do lead to lasting cross-cultural connections.
P.S. If you’re reading this blog post before April 27 when this book launches, make sure to preorder! Preorders are extremely important for authors!
3. Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art by Madeleine L’Engle
This is a classic, of course. It’s one of those that’s at the top of the list for anyone who’s in a creative field, and I know I’m late to the game as far as reading this. Madeleine L’Engle addresses what it means to be a Christian artist, and what the connection is between faith and art. I’ve heard for years it’s a must read, as L’Engle’s works are, and I’m finally going to check this one off my list.
4. The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn't, and Get Stuff Done by Kendra Adachi
After a terribly long wait in the library hold queue, I finally got my hands on this book. I’ve been following Kendra for years online, and she’s the real deal–honest, realistic, helpful, personable, and wise. She offers tips and tricks and ways of thinking that are actually helpful. I know I’ll love this book, and I’m excited to implement her ideas and wisdom as I read.
5. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
I’m way behind the times here again, so I know this book has been out for a while. But I have yet to read it. The Hate U Give addresses issues of racism and police violence as it tells the story of Starr Carter and the shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil. It’s definitely a relevant and important read—especially for those of us who have never experienced the racism and injustice that the Black community has.
6. Nobody Will Tell You This But Me: A True (as Told to Me) Story by Bess Kalb
I asked some friends recently for book recommendations, and my friend Sonya heartily recommended this one. In her words, it’ll “crush you in the very best way…I absolutely loved it.” Well, that’s about as enthusiastic an endorsement as you could want!
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash
