For most of my life I have enjoyed reading. In elementary school I remember wanting to read every Boxcar Children, Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew, etc. book I could find. I still enjoy reading. I do not read as often as I would like. Somehow social media, video games, and sports get in the way. However, I do enjoy reading.

My latest card (a stack of cards I have on my desk that serve as writing/creative thoughts prompts) asked me what 5 books have had an impact on my life. After checking out my list if you have any please, share! I always enjoy learning about new books or books I have heard of but never read.

5 BOOKS (in no particular order)

1. “All God’s Children” by Fox Butterfield.

This text was a required reading in a college class out at UNF. I walked away from this book with a completely different understanding of the story that unfolds in the life of a “criminal”. The reader gets an in-depth look into the life of a guy named Willie. You encounter violence, abuse, racism, failed systems, etc. All of it true. All of it worthy of consideration in the roles they play in producing outcomes that no culture deems beneficial.

2. “The Pursuit of God” by A.W. Tozer

My dad put this book in my hands when I was in the 11th grade. I have since handed this book out to many young adults over my 7 years of being on staff. I always responded to coaches who didn’t sugarcoat everything. AW Tozer is as good as any coach in that respect. I read this book every July when my family takes a trip to the beach for a week. I have never read through the book and felt like I should have read something else. I only walk away more convinced that my following after Jesus needs less knowledge and more application.

3. “The Ragamuffin Gospel” by Brennan Manning.

My friend Quinn Parman was discussing this book in a conversation we were a part of and his comments about it made me feel like I was missing out on something. I was. Brennan Manning does such a wonderful job reminding the reader that we are to live as those seized by a great affection. It is not by the rules that we place on ourselves and others. There are not hoops to jump through to earn the favor of God. We know this yet, we create systems that contradict this. Every April I read Ragamuffin Gospel to continue reminding myself of the beauty of God’s great grace.

4. “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis

Basic. I know. But have you read it? It is an amazing piece of work. His imagery. His wording. His ability to guide you through complex topics and discussions. If you have not read this book, do so!

5. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry

I read this as a young kid and was completely mesmerized by this fictional utopian society. I had never encountered writing like this. I am not naturally an imaginative person but this book stimulated that side of my personality. I remember my curiosity being embraced because I could wonder if this book could become a reality one day. This book brings about a level of thinking that many of the children’s books I read had not. I mean, sure solving mysteries with Frank and Joe Hardy pressed my mind into believing everyone was a suspect but Lois Lowry brought out a whole different way of thinking for me.

Those are 5 books that have been a part of my story. What are some of yours?