book list

Dear Llama Momma,

Thanks for the challenge to answer your book questions. As you'll see, I did not do a good job of following rules. However, it was a fun exercise to see your answers and think through my own.

I only read a few blogs regularly, so I feel bad tagging the same people over & over. I'll try to let a few of you know (privately), and if anyone else wants to take on the challenge, let me know your link!

Love,

MamaToo

1. One book that changed your life.

I agree with Llama Momma that the Bible seems to be the obvious answer.

From a wider perspective, doesn't every good book change us a little? The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand was incredible, especially for my (then) 18-year old mind. Perhaps A Mother's Heart, by Jean Fleming, because of its message and also the beautiful friend who gave it to me. Also, Bait of Satan, by John Bevere, and What the Holy Spirit Does in a Believer's Life, by Charles Spurgeon, and The Wounded Healer, by Henri Nouwen have each shaped and developed my faith. Okay, I'll stop now - you only asked for one!

2. One book that you have read more than once.

To Kill a Mockingbird, enjoyed dozens of times since my grandfather gave me a copy when I was twelve.

3. One book you would want on a desert island.

The Bible. Yes, again, I agree with Llama Momma. This is one that would never grow irrelevant or tiresome.

4. Two books that made you laugh.
Blue Like Jazz, by Don Miller, which also disturbed, challenged, inspired, and frustrated me... I suppose that means it's a good read!

Real Sex, by Lauren Winner, which also challenged me. Some of her stories and insights had me laughing out loud, and I've also enjoyed giggling at the raised eyebrows of those who see it in my home.

5. One book that made you cry.
Garden of Dreams, by Leslie Gould. It is haunting, beautiful, and real - even though it's completely fiction. I could see myself as one of the women in this book.

6. One book you wish you'd written.
Grace-Based Parenting, by Tim Kimmel. I felt like I was nodding, "yes!" throughout the book.

7. One book you wish had never been written.

I can't think of anything I wish wasn't written. There are many that I won't spend my time reading. I suppose even awful books give rise to good conversations and convictions. I do wish there were some books that were never read, though.

8. Two books you are currently reading.


This is hard to limit! I have many in progress...
Prayer, Finding the Heart's True Home, by Richard Foster. This beautiful book was a gift from my "sister."
Heirs of the Covenant, by Susan Hunt and Charles Dunahoo. I'm reading this in light of some of my ministry involvements, and it is really a wonderful perspective on children.

9. One book you've been meaning to read.

Again, the list is long. I'd like to read Undaunted Courage, by Stephen Ambrose, as my husband really enjoyed it years ago. I am hoping to finish a couple new Henri Nouwen books soon, and I can't wait to start Mudhouse Sabbath, by Lauren Winner, and Midnight at the Dragon Cafe, by Judy Fong Bates.