For me, 2019 has been one big blur in a lot of ways. Not sure what made it so full, but there’s been a lot going on. So much change here at Freedom. While that growth is such a good thing, the reality is… monthly blog posts about books I’ve read get pushed to the wayside. But my OCD self couldn’t just leave things as they were, so here’s one giant catch-up post. Welcome to my “August-to-December Book Dump.”
This story is incredible. Heartbreaking and raw and incredible. Eric Liddell is probably most famous for his Olympic feats, but his life consisted of so much more. He was a godly missionary who gave his life for the Lord. I certainly hope to meet him someday. If biographies are your thing, you don’t want to miss this one!
The God I Love – what an amazing read! While I’ve generally known the circumstances surrounding Joni Eareckson Tada’s intense diving accident, I’d never read anything more than a few short articles. This memoir is well-written, enthralling and, above all, points to Jesus. I will definitely be checking out some of her other books. Five stars here!
When I picked this book up, I had been in a funk. I wasn’t wanting to digest heavier reading. So I went with The Widows of Malabar Hill. It fun with just the right amount of suspense, reminiscent of a Hercule Poirot mystery. This fiction novel was set in 1920’s India, and I learned a lot about Muslim life. It looks like this might be a series. Not sure if I’ll pick up another one anytime soon. My “to-read” list is extraordinarily long, and… well… life.
If you or someone you know has dealt with childhood abuse, this book is a must-read. It obviously focuses on sexual abuse, but the general principles can be applied to other situations as well. The book was really difficult for me to digest, but it was important for me to work through it. I’ve always felt a little scared about entering the deep and painful waters to help others who have dealt with abuse. Am I really qualified? What do I say? How can I truly help someone who feels like she’s drowning? I finished this book realizing that it’s not about having all the answers tied up in a nice package. Choosing to “be there,” to offer His truth in those dark and terrifying moments, is what is needed. After all, I’m not the one who does the life change – that’s left for the Savior.
Say what you will, but I’m a sucker for a Francine Rivers novel. Honestly, I haven’t read many of her books, but the few that I’ve devoured haven’t spent much time on my nightstand. Definitely enjoyed this work, which is actually based on the story of a real-life graffiti artist turned Christian. I know that many think these novels to be cheesy and romantic, but I enjoy seeing how Rivers weaves her message of faith throughout the pages of each book. A great read, in my opinion!
That’s it, folks! My Goodreads goal is to hit 20 books this coming year. Excited to see what all there is to learn in 2020! See ya next year!
The Mitcheners 
I always enjoy reading your blogs and the books you’ve read. The only one in the 2020 list I’ve read is “The God I Love”. I very much enjoy her writing and also listen to some of her YouTube videos. I’m going to check out a couple of those books.
If you’ve never read the Mitford books by Jan Karon, I think you might enjoy them. They are probably my all time favorite fiction. Grandma Vi
I’d start with For the Glory. I really enjoyed it!
I’ll definitely check into the Mitford books!