Confession: I'm a bit of a book snob. On average, I have four books going on at once. While this is great when I want to change it up from an informative political read to an adventurous fiction novel, it slows my pace down from maybe a week or two to finish a book, to months to complete them all. It is a problem, I know. That is why this year I am vowing to at least try to read through a singular book at any given time. This will be a challenge (I get a bit overzealous with a new book!) but I am willing to give it a genuine shot.
One way I plan to implement this challenge is to set my reading list of 2011! I attempted to keep it to ten books, hoping it would set me up for success, but ended up with nineteen. The number is hardly a problem (I imagine by 2012 the actual number will be significantly higher), I am just so excited to read through a number of them that I may find great difficulty sticking to one at a time.
Nevertheless, I give you my list for 2011 and give you full permission to keep me accountable - whether or not I do!
Bonhoeffer: Pastor Martyr, Prophet, Spy: This book was the only thing I asked for this Christmas (hence the excited picture in my Christmas post!) I admit I even let out a little scream when I opened it *wink* And it is the top book on next year's list. I've already started it and am completely addicted. The only reason I am not reading it at this very moment is due to this post! Bonhoeffer is my newest inspiration in life.
The Great Divorce: This book somehow slipped through my reading list growing up. I'm unsure how I have yet to read this one, but I am quite excited to take it in!
Mere Christianity: I haven't picked this book up since I was in high school, and am quite eager to be reacquainted with brilliance of C.S.Lewis' writings.
The Athena Project: I first learned of this book on the Glenn Beck program and instantly wanted to read it. I don't read much fiction anymore (though Brad Thor's style is considered "Faction"), but this one made it on my "must read" list -- and under my Christmas tree!!
The Real George Washington: I have had this book since my birthday in May, but as previously stated, I always have several books going, and this just hasn't made it up the list yet! But this year, it will happen. I have heard nothing but incredible things.
The End of Reason: I began this book last winter, but had it stolen from me by my dear husband (which was fine for it sparked his love for the study of Apologetics). So now that it is once again available, it will finally be fully read by me!
Ethics: Bonhoeffer continues to inspire me, and by doing so, I must read more of his works. This book is a must for me.
The Cost of Discipleship: Another must read for me from Bonhoeffer. I can hardly wait to read it - when I buy it of course!
The Paradise War: I have always preferred non-fiction to fiction, but this book is an exception for me. I read it once back in high school and was blown away by its plot and character development. Strom got it for Christmas, and I'm thinking it is time for another read! Maybe this time I'll read the second and third installments...
Pursuit of Honor: Another read I found under my tree! I have heard nothing but good things about Vince Flynn and can't wait to dive into this one!
Redeeming Love: I have read this book nearly every year since I was a freshman in college. It is by far one of the most amazing books I have ever read. And remember, I'm a book snob. I failed to find the time to read it this past year (ya know, working, wedding planning, moving and all that boring stuff!) But this year, it's going down.
The 5000 Year Leap: One of thee most understandable books on the Constitution anyone could ask for. I read it this past year, but I want a refresher course due to the great importance of needing to know what I believe.
Believe it or not, I have never read the Chronicles of Narnia. Shame on me, I know. I watched the BBC movies growing up, and fully enjoy the new versions, but I have never sat down and read through the collection. This year, I have every intention of changing that.
And there you have it. My publicly stated challenge and commitment!
Bring it on, 2011!
2 comments:
great list, Regan! the Bonhoeffer books are something I will definitely have to check out. I've never heard of him before.
I got the whole set of the Chronicles of Narnia at the thrift store for $5.99 a month ago. I was stoked! I also got the whole LHOTP set there for $4.99. Ava and I were going through it already, so now I don't have to borrow from the library (thus incurring late fees, since I can never remember to return them on time!).
And I'm tellin ya, you have GOT to read the "Thorn in My Heart" series by Liz Curtis Higgs! I'm a huge Redeeming Love fan, and this one's right up there with it for me. ...And plus, it takes place in Scotland. Aren't you Scottish? Or Irish or something??? so there ya have it! Perfect match! ;)
Thank you! I'll review each completed book and let you know my opinion! (So far, Bonhoeffer is simply amazing!) Way to go on the deals! You are a professional bargain shopper! I remembered the TIMH series after I posted this! I'll definitely add that to my list! And yes, Scottish AND Irish! English, German, Italian.... 100% American melting pot! =)
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