I’ve been a reading fool lately — and I love it. There’s nothing worse that wanting something good to read and not having anything worth picking up. Luckily, I’ve not had that problem in some time and I’m still getting through a big pile. Here are some short reviews of books I’ve read recently.
1. Settle for More by Megyn Kelly
I’ve always been a Megyn Kelly fan — I think she is fierce and smart and so good at her job. It was really cool to get an inside look at how she became the superstar she is — as well as the story behind her sexual harassment from Roger Ailes. I’m fascinated by how famous people get to where they are and it was neat to see the softer side of Kelly, who can sometimes come across as pretty darn badass. I miss her as a hard-hitting interviewer on Fox News but can see why she probably needed a change after the trauma of 2016 with Donald Trump, which is a big part of the book she explains. He seems even crazier than I thought after reading this 🙂
2. Called to Create by Jordan Raynor
I’m thrilled to recommend this book again — and have found myself telling people about in person frequently. It’s technically geared toward “Christian creatives” but I think any Christian can find a ton of inspiration about their job or even hobby here. It’s all about God being the firs entrepreneur and how we can live out our love & lives for Him in everything we do. Well-written, Biblically-based, and inspirational! Check out my Facebook Live interview with the author here.
3. Brain on Fire by Susannah Callahan
I have seen this one on the shelves for YEARS but never picked it up until now. Now I see why it’s been so popular for so long. It’s exquisitely written — clearly a memoir by a writer to the core (she did and does write for the New York Post) about her battle with a mysterious mental illness that nearly cost her her life. Susannah spent a month in the hospital as her brain deteriorated and doctors puzzled over the problem. Susannah recovered but her story went to help SO many people who developed the same mysterious brain problem, perhaps saving many lives. It’s intriguing, scientifically sound and beautifully written. Memoir lovers get on it.
4. I Wish I Might by Lisa De Pasquale
I enjoy well-written chick lit and I would this book in that category, which isn’t easy to do. I’ve read my share of overly sappy, badly written books and I’m happy to say this one was easy to read and entertaining. I takes place at a popular women’s magazine and follows the story of a lead character editor with many personal insecurities as she battles against them in the midst of a media storm. Definitely a fun, easy read perfect for vacation, before bed and something to de-stress!
5. Nurtureshock by Po Bronson & Ashley Merryman
Got this suggestion last year when asking for parenting books. Super interesting as it tackles common myths or beliefs parents have about everything from how kids learn to discipline to speaking with your kids about race. It covers a wide variety of subjects from a scientific angle, bringing up some surprising hypothesis that might change the way you choose to parent on certain issues. It was really thought-provoking and I’m glad I picked it up.
6. Be Fierce by Gretchen Carlson
I was actually sent a press copy of this book and it’s obviously a very timely subject matter. Former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson left the network after a huge sexual harassment settlement against Roger Ailes. She doesn’t discuss the particulars in this book, but she interviewed dozens of women who have experienced sexual assault or harassment in the workplace, providing familiar stories and a guidebook for how to deal with it — even before you start a new job. As someone who has not experienced sexual harassment, I did have trouble relating personally but I’m guessing many of you WOULD relate as most people have been through it. Certainly worth a read if you are interested in this subject.
7. Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
I love a good memoir and this one lived up to the hype. I honestly didn’t even know who founded Nike until I came upon this book but figured it must be a good story. After reading it, it’s hard to believe Nike exists today! Phil Knight went through YEARS of struggle and persevered again and again to make this company what it is today. I can’t imagine how many Nike’s don’t exist today because they don’t have the ambition and resilience of a Phil Knight behind them. Super interesting history and very cool to explore how Nike came to be.
8. The Yes Effect by Luis Bush & Darcy Wiley
You’ve heard me talk about this one before. “The Yes Effect” explores the history behind the modern missionary movement, specifically focused on the 10/40 window where the most people are unreached. This book documents the stories of a variety of faithful missionaries around the globe who said “yes” to God in the face of fear. It’s an incredible testimony to the power of faith and what God can do if we just trust him. You needn’t be a missionary to learn from this one and start saying “yes” to what God has for your life. Check out my interview with the author here!
9. Goliath Must Fall by Louie Giglio
I’ve know of Louie Giglio for years but had never read one of his books. I heard several people raving about them recently so I had to pick one up. I enjoyed this read, which is definitely geared toward spiritual growth and overcoming the “giants” in your life. It tackles addictions, fears and other “big” hang ups in our lives and uses Biblical knowledge to guide you on how to overcome and trust God.
10. Dance Stand Run by Jess Connolly
I have just fallen in love with Jess Connolly’s personality on social media. First of all, she’s a genius on Instagram stories — and she’s adorable — full of inspirational wisdom from the Lord at any given moment. Her infectious, sweet personality were what inspired me to pick up her new book. You can really hear her speaking the words through her writing — and it’s so clear how every word comes straight from God. Christian ladies, I encourage you to grab this one!
11. A Fierce Love by Shauna Shanks
After hearing Shauna on a podcast, I was intrigued by her story about her marriage unraveling and her faith in holding onto it. It’s not secret, her husband has an affair and wants out of the marriage. It’s actually really jarring to hear the kinds of hateful things he says to her — and shocking to think the end of the book is their reconciliation but it is SUCH a powerful example of how God loves us. No everyone would have the faith & strength Shauna but her incredibly close relationship with the Lord got her through this and it is a miraculous, beautiful love story.
12. Garden City by John Mark Comer
This was recommended by three people and I just had to get it for that reason. It’s an inspiring read about what we are called to do in career & life as Christians. Comer writes about how work was meant to enjoyed, and fulfilling — and how we will actually be “working” in a sense in heaven. Now, that may not sound great at first read, but honestly, it will open up your mind to why you do what you do here on earth and how you might make it a truly holy cause. Very good and unique style of writing.
13. For the Love by Jen Hatmaker
I’ve only recently started reading Jen Hatmaker books, just see what all the fuss was about. Turns out, she IS pretty darn funny in writing. I enjoyed this book, which is a mix of faith, family and humor — she has such a knack for sarcasm in word so it hits just perfectly. I bought it in anticipation of attending the “Of Mess and Moxie” (her new book) tour — where we’d get a free copy of that book because I bought the special “girlfriend package” to sit in the front row & meet Jen herself! Turns out, I got the date wrong so I missed the whole thing and wasted more money than I’d ever spend on a book. I’m sure I will eventually get to reading “Moxie” though 🙂
14. Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
So this book doesn’t really fit in to the others but…I did read it so I wanted to include. Curtis Sittenfeld is one of my all time favorite authors. She wrote “Prep,” “American Wife” (my favorite fiction book!) and “The Man of My Dreams.” I loved ALL of those. She also write “Sisterland” which I know I read but cannot remember for some reason. All that being said, I had to read her new one! It is a modern day version of “Pride and Prejudice” (and I’ve never been a huge fan of that, sorry!). However, I found it to be a fun, fast read and really enjoyed picking it up at the end of each day before bedtime. Not my favorite from her but definitely worth reading if you are looking for something light and fun.