In light of COVID-19 giving most of us more time alone/inside/with less on our calendars, I want to share five books I have read recently that I think would be great for you too in this current cultural moment.

You know you always need one more book on your “To Read” list.

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Although Amazon is still shipping books, if you like reading electronic versions - be sure to check out Libby where you can check out digital books from your library for free, Scribd (which I absolutely love) where you can get 60 days for free and always access an unlimited number of both books and audiobooks, or buy the version for your Kindle.

1. For an insightful look at God’s character: None Like Him: 10 Ways God Is Different from Us (and Why That's a Good Thing) by Jen Wilkin

We recently finished reading this book in our Women’s group and it was helpful and led to a lot of discussion because of the questions at the end of each chapter. If you’re looking for a Bible/book study to do with friends while you’re social distancing, this would be a great one to read and then chat about over the phone.

I liked some chapters more than others; but overall, it was both challenging and encouraging and pointed you to God’s character to leave you in awe.

2. For an amazing escape into some fiction: Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry

This was one of the best novels I have ever read. I laughed and I cried. It is a beautiful fictional memoir that will transport you into the life of another.

Sometimes you need a good story. You’ll find that here.

3. For preparation as we don’t know what the future holds: What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps (and What Really Hurts) by Nancy Guthrie

As of the middle of March 2020 (when I’m writing this), we really don’t know what our lives will look like in a month or two or next year. While that’s always the case, this is an interesting time where every. single. headline. is relating to death in one way or another. I read this book last summer but I keep it close and am re-reading it now as a helpful reminder of how to help grieving people.

Nancy Guthrie helps Christians - with truth and love and many real life examples - understand how to interact with others through their hardest and unthinkable times of suffering. ⁣

4. For updating your home (as you’re there even more now): Cozy Minimalist Home: More Style, Less Stuff by Myquillyn Smith

I devoured this book and left feeling empowered to change the way I completely thought about decorating my home.

The helpful images and explanations completely fit with all the decluttering tips you are saving on Pinterest and takes it up a level.

Myquilyn who is known as “The Nester” in the online world, really solves many practicle hurdles between looking great and just looking “off”.

More than that though, she challenges you to think through how your spaces are being used so that they best for your family in your current situation. As you’ll be using your home to the max right now for your family, this would be a great (and quick but beautiful) read.

5. For daily readings when you want more liturgy in your life: Streams of Mercy: Prayers of Confession and Celebration by Barbara R. Duguid

My mother-in-law gave me her copy of this book for Christmas and I have been loving it.

One of the favorite parts of my church service is the law and gospel readings. We are confronted with our sin and then not told to try harder or fix ourselves but instead are pointed to the gospel. The completed work of Christ on our behalf that we must see as our only hope.

As our church can no longer meet and we’ve switched to online services, I’m cherishing this book even more.

Each day/chapter is broken down into three parts. First, there is Scripture containing the law for a reflection on our confession of sin. Then, the bulk of the content is a beautiful gospel-centered prayer drawing on Scripture and addressing all three persons of the Trinity. Finally, there is an assurance of pardon (which is alluded to in the prayer as well) from Scripture.

I can always use a book recommendation, please comment below with yours so I know what to read next!