I was inspired by one of my favorite bloggers, Lindsay of Passionate Homemaking, to create a yearly book list. My goal is to be intentional about reading books that strengthen my walk with God, deepen my perspecitive of biblical womanhood, and refresh me in my role as a wife and mom. I’ve also included books that simply cater to my personal interests. As you can see, I’ve kept the fiction list short. For me, reading fiction takes about as much discipline as eating Klondike bars. That being said, the fiction list is likely to grow throughout the year as I peruse the library. The non-fiction list is a different story. It will be a challenge to read all these. Like everything in my life, the list is subject to change throughout the year, but for starters, here it is:
Non-Fiction
Biblical Womanhood in the Home by DeMoss, Kassian, Mahaney, et al.–Written by a powerhouse of godly female authors, this book is meant to counter the feminist revolution and its lingering effects in the hearts and minds of women.
Don’t Make Me Count to Three by Ginger Plowman–This short book on discipline comes highly recommended by friends.
Give Them Grace by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson–This book has been on my reading list for a while. I’m eager to learn more about raising our kids with a grace-centered, gospel worldview.
Humility by C.J. Mahaney–Not only do I love C.J. Mahaney, I could use a good dose of humility. Excited to read this little book and hopeful about the fruit it will bear.
Joni and Ken: An Untold Love Story by Ken and Joni Eareckson Tada–Joni Eareckson has been a longtime hero of mine. As a child I use to put her cassette tape in our tape player and listen to her songs over and over again. Her story has always captivated and inspired me, so when I saw this new book being released in April I nearly jumped out of my skin. Expect a book review!
On Writing by Stephen King–One of my favorite fiction authors (Charles Martin, seen below) recommended this book for aspiring writers. I will confess, it was so good that I read the entire thing before I could get this book list up. So, there are two things you should know: King truly is master of the craft, and he has quite a potty mouth. If you’re able to overlook the latter, he will be the best writing coach you’ve ever had.
The Call by Os Guinness–This past year my husband and I have spent significant time discussing our calling. We decided to read this book together with another couple in our church. Only on chapter three, and already loving it!
The Hospitality Commands by Alexander Strauch–I chose this book because I want to grow in hospitality. I’ve never felt particularly strong in the area, and I think a fresh biblical perspective is in order.
The House that Cleans Itself by Mindy Starns Clark–Do I really need to explain the appeal to this one? I didn’t think so.
The Prodigal God by Tim Keller–Although books about Christian issues are helpful, I think it’s encouraging to read a book focused on the character of God Himself once in a while. Since I enjoyed The Meaning of Marriage so much, I thought I’d give another Keller book a try.
Fiction
The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin–This is just for fun from one of my favorite Christian fiction authors who writes like a male, sanctified Jodi Piccoult. In this particular novel–a young doctor, a bride-to-be, a fateful plane crash, a fight for survival…oh boy!
Two Crosses by Elizabeth Musser–One of my followers responded to my post on “Confessions of a Housewife” with the suggestion that I check out Christian fiction author Elizabeth Musser. I am always on the hunt for good Christian fiction and can’t wait to sit down with this historical novel! The book is the first in a trilogy, so if I like it, I’ll add the next two to my list.
If you want to follow my progress or check out my 2012 list, you can click on the “Yearly Reading” page above. Happy reading!
Loving My Lot 
I love your comments and recommendations. Reading is something I have benefitted from all my life. I tend to choose non-fiction, especially biography, most often. But your remark about discipline/reading fiction/ and Klondike bars brought a laugh. I identify with that. I usually have a hard time limiting my reading when it is good fiction. An old book about hospitality that I could recommend to you is Karen Mains Open Heart, Open Home. It was very helpful to me as a young woman since she emphasized the difference between entertaining and hospitality. I will be checking out the books on your list! Thanks for writing.