In November of 2014, I read a blog post encouraging folks to set aside a bookshelf for all the books read in a calendar year. As the year goes by, you see the shelf filling and are reminded of time well spent. (I wish I could remember who to thank.)

The project was so rewarding I’ve continued it every year. I’ve found the process of adding books enjoyable and helpful. Sometimes you forget a really good book.

This year I read far fewer books than in years past. I just didn’t have the bandwidth in the midst of moving, getting to know a new congregation, a daughter’s wedding, another daughter blessing us with our first grandchild, my mom’s cancer treatments, starting a business, writing a book… I need to post a personal update! 

Many blessings to those of you who find strength and solace in reading during very full seasons. Many blessings to those of you, like me, who don’t. Let’s be kind to each other, and to ourselves.

Helpful Hints

• If you read most of your books electronically, or through library loans, consider setting up a virtual bookshelf on Pinterest.
• Another option for a virtual bookshelf is to set up a profile on Goodreads. Be sure to fill in a start and end date for each book you complete. You can even set up a reading challenge for the year.
• My list includes books I read and books I listen to while traveling. (I now have a short commute to church) There are wonderful, free audiobooks available through your local library. I’ve been buying audiobooks at deep discounts via Chirp. 

So my friends here’s my 2021 bookshelf. I hope it encourages you and that you find a treasure or two. Should it be helpful to you, I’m glad to provide more feedback on specific selections. Just leave a comment below. Also, feel free to leave your book recommendations in the comments.

Happy reading. Happy exploring. Happy growing. – Lisa <><

Novels

• People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks
• The Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd
• Peace Like a River by Leif Enger
• The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
• Soup to Nuts by Judith Deborah
• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Memoirs

• Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service by Gary Sinise
• Sparrow: A Book of Life and Death and Life by Jan Richardson
• Higher is Waiting by Tyler Perry
• Fine Lines: Walking the Labyrinth of Grief and Loss by Kathy Swaar

Christian Theology

• With Burning Hearts: A Meditation on the Eucharistic Life by Henri J.M. Nouwen
• Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again by Rachel Held Evans
• Broken Signposts: How Christianity Makes Sense of the World by N.T. Wright

Leadership Development

• Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon
• Show Your Work! 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon
• A Tale of Three Kings by Gene Edwards
• Your Best Move: Effective Leadership Transition for the Local Church by Robert Kaylor

Devotional and Spiritual Practices

• Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness by Nan C. Merrill