I love to learn by reading. At the end of each year, I pick out my favorite reads from the past 365 days. Some years yield slim pickings (8 favorites in 2018; 5 favorites in 2017). Other years (like this one), I look back through my list of books read and keep thinking, “Oh, I loved that one!”
So without further ado, here are 13 of my favorite books from 2019. If you read any of these, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
My 13 Favorite Books from 2019
Tony Reinke does it again and makes my technological-loving mind take a second look at how technology is affecting my heart. Competing Spectacles is a good read for anyone who uses computers, phones, or televisions. Okay, that’s everyone.
Educated is a hard book to read. And I don’t think everyone should read it. I discussed this book with my local book club and the themes we talked about ranged from physical and emotional abuse to homeschooling to how much the government should get involved in dysfunctional families. A difficult read, but a fascinating one to discuss with people in your city.
Quiet was another book club read. I struggled with it at first because I kept trying to figure out the author’s agenda and I wasn’t sure if I agreed with it. But in the end, I found it a helpful read, especially the last part which talks about children’s different needs based on their varying personalities. That chapter has been helpful in my parenting journey. I also appreciated reading that other people sometimes hide in the bathroom to avoid socializing. I thought I was the only one. Hashtag solidarity.
I read Decision Points because my husband told me I would like it. It was fascinating to read some of the behind-the-scenes details from different decisions (9/11, Hurricane Katrina, re-election, etc.) and really opened my eyes to media bias.
I fully realize that many people who read Decision Points by Bush would never read Becoming by Obama (and vice versa). But I contend that they’re perfect to read together. Both books will help you think about the agendas behind the news sources. Also, if you think your spouse has a difficult job, read Becoming and you will find yourself re-thinking that theory. I ended this book feeling grateful that my husband has no desire to be the president.
This book! Definitely on my top 5 from 2019! Thought-provoking, Biblical, and convicting. This book will make you re-think whether your treasure is in heaven or on earth. I listened to it last month, but I just ordered a print version so that Jonathan and I can read it together this year.
Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy takes a realistic look at the painfulness in life and a faith-filled view of the goodness and mercy of God. If you find yourself questioning God’s goodness because of a difficult season in your life, read this book and learn how to lament in a way that will bring you closer to Jesus. I’ve gifted this book several times since reading it, so I think my money speaks louder than my words.
Oh, A Wrinkle in Time was such a gripping read for me! A juvenile fiction book, this was one I looked forward to diving into before I drifted off to sleep each night. As my reading typically tends to fall in the non-fiction genre, this was a pleasant change.
Gay Girl, Good God is the testimony of a lesbian who was brought to life by the grace and power of Jesus Christ. An encouraging read and one that will prod you to think and act with love to those around you who look or act differently than you.
The ladies at my church read and discussed Side by Side together this year and it was such a fruitful time. How can you exercise humility, openness, and wisdom in relationships with people at your church? This book will walk you through both how and why we should “walk with others in wisdom and love.”
Sweep is a juvenile fiction read that I just really enjoyed. Weighty themes of loss, love, and justice. I felt slightly silly when I cried through parts of this book that has the word “monster” in the subtitle, but I think you’ll understand why if you read it.
Devoted is an encouraging read for any Mom. This book explores some of the godly habits different moms cultivated as they sought to raise their boys for Christ. Moms of Hudson Taylor, Charles Spurgeon, D. L. Moody (and more) are discussed in this book. I stopped reading this book a couple times because I wanted to take a few minutes to pray and ask God to help me to be a godly Mom who is faithful in the things that really matter.
MY FAVORITE. I have recommended Conscience so many times to my real-life friends over the past 12 months. It’s come up as we’ve talked about different standards and how to deny ourselves, live for Christ, and respond in love to those around us. If you struggle to reconcile different things Christians do, this book will help you understand the matter of conscience and what you should do about it.
As you consider your book list for 2020, might I encourage you to add this one to the list? I think you’ll love it.