Compilation: 13 Books With Reading Lists

Book-lovers treasure books with reading recommendations or simply ones that drop titles left and right. I recently noticed someone on Facebook asking for suggestions of books that contain reading lists. Since I've read a few myself, I thought I'd provide a list (with links to my reviews) for my readers to grow their own reading lists. These are not in order of preference, but rather when read (most recent at top):

1. The Undercover Book List by Colleen Nelson (MG novel)
2. The Reading List by Sarah Nisha Adams (novel)
3. Dear Fahrenheit 451 by Annie Spence (non-fiction)
4. Ex Libris by Michiko Kakutani (non-fiction)
5. The Library Book by Susan Orlean (non-fiction)
6. My Reading Life by Pat Conroy (non-fiction)
7. The Words Between Us by Erin Bartels (novel)
8. Ten Years in the Tub by Nick Hornby (non-fiction)
9. I'd Rather Be Reading by Anne Bogel (non-fiction)
10. Letters About Literature (2016) by various Indiana students (non-fiction)
11. Letters About Literature (2017) by various Indiana students (non-fiction)
12. The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe (non-fiction)
13. Winter Birds by Jamie Langston Turner  (novel)

Just in case your to-be-read list isn't burgeoning enough already! 😉

New Glasses

My annual eye check-up is normally in January. Last year, however, I cancelled my appointment. Given my mother's macular degeneration and my father's recently diagnosed cataracts, I was loathe to miss another check-up. Isn't it amazing how eye degeneration can creep up on you without even realizing you're not seeing as well as you could? Apparently, I declined three points. Yikes!

Faced with hundreds of frame options, I thought I'd take the easy way out by asking the technician to select a few for me in blue or purple (my favorite colors). Perhaps that was a mistake. I'm guessing she didn't gravitate toward the cheaper frames as I would have. Plus, I worried I might not actually like them since it felt like she picked them for me. My sister assured me the woman probably had excellent taste (I lack fashion-sense). I literally gasped when handed the bill - almost $800. Seriously? Sheesh! I understand I asked for bells and whistles (scratch-resistant, transition lenses), but didn't anticipate or welcome that amount.

Presenting my new glasses:

I'm not a photographer and struggled with getting a photo inside (to avoid the lenses darkening) without glare from the lights. They feel a bit too round and large. Even if I don't like them as much, I will wear them because things are much sharper than with my old glasses. 

Here's a mini-gallery of my various glasses in the past decade:

2012-2015 black frames:

2016-2018 purple frames:

2019-2021 blue frames:

So, if you had to pick the best pair, which would you choose on me??? I'd love to hear your opinion.

At least I'm not sporting the eyewear my son wore as a tween, ha!:

Book Review: Redeeming Your Time - Highly Recommend

I've mentioned before, I'm a big fan of Jordan Raynor. So, why is he one of my favorite authors? His books are so well written I cannot wait to crack their covers. He blends interesting illustrations with timely truths. His content is right up my alley: some of his biggest concerns include doing creative work for the Kingdom of God, honing one's focus on the calling God has given, and using what God gives to the best advantage. His words profit my life, even when my life doesn't align with his objectives (I'll explain this further). 

I believe his values are in the right place. He emphasizes the Word of God and the will of God. Plus, his focus is on "grace-based" living/gospel, rather than "works-based" living/gospel. As he's said before, "God doesn't need us to do anything." We seek productivity not to earn God's favor or prove we belong to Him, but rather, in response to God's favor because we belong to Him.

Despite having so much going for him, his humility makes him approachable. For example, I responded to one of his newsletter articles by sending him a knee-jerk, whiny "Why isn't God blessing my writing? Am I plowing the wrong field?" email. His time is at a premium, yet he sent me a personal video response. Wow! (Further evidence: when I got to page 87 of this book, his approachability and graciousness blew me away. I actually said aloud, "Who does that? That's amazing!" I hope I've piqued your interest.)

I'm not the target audience for Redeeming Your Time: 7 Biblical Principles for Being Purposeful, Present and Wildly Productive. As a stay-at-home mom of teens and part-time writing enthusiast, my time is fluid. I have wide-open days and few requirements beyond serving as chauffer (soon even that will go, since Sean is now 15), occasional cook, and constant clothes/dish washer. Time management just isn't high on my list. Still, in my daily pages, I often complain about days wasted in non-essentials. So, this book will increase my desire to make my days count. 

In fact, the timing for this read was tremendous because I have camped for a season in Ephesians 5:14-16: Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time because the days are evil. (KJV) Indeed, many Christians are sleeping. Oh, how we need Christ's light in this dark and evil world. God's direction is clear. He calls us to be circumspect and to use the remaining time wisely. This is the perfect time to focus on Redeeming Your Time.

I went back and forth when the book released in October, daunted by the $20+ hardback price. At last, I requested the book from my library. I now regret that. The book is worth every penny. I bought the audio version for my son Bryce to use on his lengthy work commute - a perfect fit for his interests and inclinations. Yet, think of all the library patrons who will benefit from my initial frugality.

Redeeming Your Time is highly readable and solidly structured. Jordan walks the reader through 7 principles, supported by practices to help reach those goals. Not only is this book biblically sound, but it is Christ-centered. The very first principle for making the most of your time isn't to get busy doing what you want to accomplish. No, it is: ground yourself daily in the Word of God. He gets what is foundational! The remaining principles focus on how our supreme example, Christ, redeemed His time. You can never go wrong following Christ's pattern!

Although I didn't follow every suggestion (still working on a paper list of open loops because technology is not my friend), I followed several without delay. When he highlighted the benefits of walking, I donned my shoes and took a half-hour walk. I wasted the first ten minutes focused on the biting cold, then settled into prayer. My thoughts may not have solved problems, but I girded up my family for the day. I've already proven this tool, as I often walk to process plot issues when working on a novel (something I haven't done in ages).

I treasured his observations about counterintuitive practices. He highlights adequate sleep as so important. I laughed at the vignette of Thomas Edison's approach to capturing sleep-induced breakthroughs. Instead of shying away from the impossible, Jordan recommends setting big extravagant goals. He emphasizes the productivity boost provided by ceasing activity and observing the Sabbath. Plus, he suggests limiting the time in deep work (or creating effective breaks between deep work).

If you cannot find enough content in this book, Jordan offers countless supplemental materials on his website. I would love a chance to meet this author and pick his brain. He has so much to offer the world and God's kingdom, and he's focused on squeezing every bit of potential God has gifted in him. I agree with Hannah Brencher (author of the recently reviewed Fighting Forward): "This book is a game changer. Expect your life to change in radical ways. Get ready to scribble down notes, highlight sections, and cling to the additional resources." If that doesn't convince you, maybe you'd like to read the 32 endorsements inside the front cover. Indeed, 95% of Amazon reviewers have left 5 star reviews, so I'm not alone on this. 

Book Review: The New Year's Quilt

I thought I'd give another Elm Creek Quilts book a try. The New Year's Quilt is book eleven in the series. It continued with the same characters I encountered in book nine, The Christmas Quilt. I didn't enjoy this book as much as the previous installment, but it covered a similar theme worth repeating: familial estrangement. It provided a clean read and an entertaining accompaniment to my exercise.

Sylvia Bergstrom Compson has just married Andrew Cooper, much to the chagrin of his daughter Amy. As Sylvia works on a quilt to give to Amy, she reminisces over past holidays and family traditions. I loved hearing of a German tradition of watching a popular show (I think it was "Dinner for One."). I may have to look that up some day. Although the book rehashed several identical passages from The Christmas Quilt, it was still an enjoyable read. Now, if I could only get Facebook to STOP filling my feed with quilting posts and images! Reading two books about quilts doesn't make me a quilter.

Book Review: The Good Sister - Highly Recommend

What a riveting read! My mind has swirled with thoughts of The Good Sister ever since I read the first page. I've mentioned it to my family. I've exclaimed about the intricate plot and story this author weaves. So glad I didn't return this to the library unread as tempted when the due date loomed. I was game for a thriller and loved escaping into the microcosm of these sisters. The title is so apt!

Written from two rival perspectives, this story paints a picture of twin sisters who are as different as night and day. One sister, Fern, struggles with autistic tendencies and challenges. I adored her! It was like reading a female version of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime. Her intriguing perspectives are often laugh-out-loud funny! The other sister, Rose, keeps a diary to process her current relational difficulties with her husband. She also writes about the trauma they experienced growing up with their mother. The story hinges on Rose's deep desire for a baby and Fern's eagerness to make that dream a reality by serving as a surrogate.

I enjoyed contemplating so many aspects of the sibling bond. Plus, I devoured the clues, trying to figure out the truth. The writing is excellent, sweeping the reader in and downstream. The characters are unique and their voices clear. I marvel at how expert authors manage the art of pacing. Each snippet from two perspectives comes in well-timed waves. This will be one of my favorite reads of the year. The story was so engaging that, even though the characters live a lifestyle that departs from my moral compass, I lapped it up anyway. If you want to dissect a well-written novel, you would do well to start with this one. I cannot wait to seek further books by Sally Hepworth!

Book Review: The Undercover Book List

The Undercover Book List, by Colleen Nelson, is like a tween version of The Reading List (reviewed here). Similarities abound. Both books highlight two unlikely individuals brought together by reading and a list. Both books reveal the chasm left behind in a father's absence. An aspect of anonymity drives both plot lines. Characters face family issues. Plus, each offers the reader a host of book suggestions and discussions.

Jane's best friend, Sienna, moves away and leaves her an opportunity to find a new best friend based on their shared passion for books. She initiates what she calls "the undercover book list," a secret correspondence carried out in the pages of their favorite book. Through this series of anonymous notes, X and Y recommend books to each other as their friendship blossoms. While Y knows who X is, X is in the dark. Will X be disappointed when she discovers the true identity of Y? Can Y fill the hole left by Sienna in Jane's life and in Jane's book quiz team?

Colleen Nelson understands middle school students. From her outstanding development of the misunderstood prankster to the intense ache Jane experiences missing her father, Nelson crafts tween characters that are sure to resonate with the intended audience. Thankfully, the book holds equal appeal for grown-ups who might read the book alongside their tweens. Yet another brilliant book stimulating further reading recommendation. This would make an outstanding classroom read-aloud!

Book Review: The Christmas Quilt

I usually seek series books in order. Chronological treatment is important to me, and I'm frustrated when I unknowingly stumble into a series midway. But I needed an audio book and wanted something related to the holidays. Thus, I took a chance on Jennifer Chiaverini's The Christmas Quilt. It is book eight in a twenty book series. The author's name was familiar, as Chiaverini is the author of Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker (a book I never read, but my old book club considered). I was quite pleased with this read. It delivered the inspirational feelings of Christmas, along with some wisdom about mending fences and fortifying relationships. Thanks to her writing skill and her wholesome content, Chiaverini may become a beloved author for me.

In the Elm Creek Quilts series, we meet Sylvia Bergstrom Compson. Sylvia has one goal on her mind: getting her junior assistant, Sarah, to spend Christmas with her estranged mother. However, Sarah doesn't want Sylvia to spend Christmas alone. Pulling out the holiday finery, they discover a Christmas quilt that brings back a world of Christmas memories for Sylvia. As she relives those earlier days, the reader is swept into the festivities, full of traditions. From the details of tree selection to star placement, each aspect of these holiday traditions lends opportunity for unity and division. In the end, Sylvia contemplates her many blessings and encourages Sarah to count hers as well.

Book Review: The Reading List - Highly Recommend

What a delightful debut novel! Sara Nisha Adams offers a flavor of London and a taste for books. In The Reading List, books prove a passageway to friendship, a door to understanding, and a magic carpet to another world. Adams navigates the troubled waters of grief and abandonment. She fosters a love of reading with her list of books to seek. At only 26, she captures so much truth about life and the power of reading. In this author interview, she shares that her grandfather (the story impetus) passed away before she wrote the book.

Mukesh misses his book-loving wife and longs to nurture a relationship with his quiet granddaughter, Priya. His three well-meaning daughters have attempted to take charge of his life and offer constant advice. When he finds a library book that he failed to return after his wife's death, he strikes out to her old stomping grounds and meets a surly teen librarian, Aleisha, who hasn't a clue what books to recommend. She finds a slip of paper in a returned item and begins reading the books on the list and recommending them to Mukesh.

Aleisha opens up to Mukesh about her troubled world. She and her brother must care for her mother, who has been mentally unstable ever since her father left them for a new family. Their friendship deepens. Mukesh connects with Aleisha and with Priya through the books on the list. Each well-loved book holds a story that they can relate to the issues in their lives. Although every individual responds to a book in different ways, these books soothe their troubled souls and allow them to escape the difficulties of life's daily drudge.

Any book lover will delight in this story. I loved the accents communicated by the narration on this audio book. Plus, you are in for a real treat if you haven't read the books on this reading list. (I was familiar with all but two.) The mystery of the list-maker hovers in the air, drawing you along in the characters' dilemmas. With enough sadness to be touching and enough humor to be enjoyable, the story transports the reader to other places and lives. 

Dozen Best Reads of 2021

 HIGHLY RECOMMEND

FICTION:

We Dream of Space by Erin Entrada Kelly - Middle Grade

Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty

NONFICTION:

Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard

Age of Opportunity by Paul David Tripp

Win the Day by Mark Batterson

 

Another Gospel? by Alisa Childers

Romans 13 and Covid 19 by J. L. Fuller

Fighting Forward by Hannah Brencher

HONORABLE MENTIONS

NONFICTION:

The River of Doubt by Candice Millard

Prayer in the Night by Tish Harrison Warren

Facing the Mountain by Daniel James Brown

What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey

Reading Summary for 2021:

I read 89 books with a total of 24,604 pages. Of the books read, 7 received a 5 thumbs up ranking, 16 received a 4-1/2 thumbs up ranking, and 22 received a 4 thumbs up ranking. That means a little over half the books were outstanding reads. Yay! Although I didn't categorize the genres like last year, it was a fairly even split between fiction and non-fiction. That surprised me because it felt like I read more non-fiction.