A quick scroll through social media, chats with friends at conferences or area libraries, or a stop in the local used bookstore or thrift shop, reveals a common theme among people who like to read: A growing list of books they want to, need to, or have always felt they should, read.
Some of those people indulge themselves in increasing numbers of bookshelves, or entire walls dedicated to storage. After all, if you spent money on the book, you should actually read it. If you enjoyed it, you want to share the love by sharing it with just the right friend or, if you’re a parent or grandparent, passing your favorites on to the next generation.
The prime space goes to the priority books. For me, this space includes small tables next to a favorite chair between a sunny window and the fireplace (used to be table, singular, now it’s plural), and also my nightstand, where the stack has elevated the reading lamp by at least 10 inches. Could I read them on Kindle, etc.? Well, while those are great options for travel, there’s just something satisfying about that print book in your hand!
Here’s a sampling of my “to read/to finish” list:
· “Climate Change for Kids,” by Ken Ham and Jessica DeFord – A quick skim of this one and I decided it was worth a more in-depth read before the granddaughter gets it.
· “The Gift,” by Dr. Edith Eger – Practical steps to emotional freedom, sequel to “The Choice”
· “Person of Interest,” by J. Warner Wallace – A top cold-case detective’s journey from atheism to faith in Jesus Christ
· “The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi,” by Kathie Lee Gifford, and “Mysteries of the Messiah,” by Rabbi Jason Sobel – I’m looking forward to expanding my understanding of why Israel matters, especially to Christians and especially now.
· “A Great Calm,” by Janet Denison – I could use a little more of the calming presence of the Holy Spirit in my life; how about you?
· “Keep It Shut,” by Karen Ehman – Skimming this one quickly, I got so convicted about taming my social media sarcasm that I ordered the study guide for a deeper dive.
And one I must get done, no matter what: I decided to take online classes with Global University, so “Relationships and Ethics in Ministry” is staring at me right now.
I always enjoy the emails and the random personal conversations around town about what Globe readers are also reading! So, what’s on your nightstand?
Comments