My Favorite Reads from 2010
As the year winds down, I want to share with you a few of my favorite reads from 2010. From different genres and definitely not mind candy, I found each of these books both enjoyable and thought provoking.
The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science. Norman Doige, M.D. Penquin Books, New York, 2007
This fascinating book sets the latest in scientific study of the brain against the background of human experience. The good news is that the recently discovered plasticity of the brain guarantees the possibility of growth and change across the lifespan.
Good Calories, Bad Calories: Fats, Carbs and the Controversial Science of Diet and Health. Gary Taubes, Anchor Books, New York, 2007
Everything you ever wanted to know about fats and carbs is detailed in this journalistic analysis of many years of scientific study on healthy diets. The conclusions may surprise you.
Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love
Dr. Sue Johnson, Little Brown, New York, NY, 2008
Based on Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and the theory of human attachment, this book provides insight into the dynamics of a healthy attachment and practical steps for renewing or maintaining your most important relationships.
The Shack: Where Tragedy Confronts Eternity
William P. Young, Windblown Media, Los Angeles, CA
This novel tells a gripping story of loss, pain and recovery. It addresses the age old question of how a loving God can allow human suffering. Be prepared to think outside the box. One of the most compelling books I’ve ever read.
The Soloist: A Lost Dream, an Unlikely Friendship, and the Redemptive Power of Music. Steve Lopez, Berkley Books, New York, 2008
This memoir paints a compelling, disturbing, yet hopeful picture of the lives of the chronically mentally ill and the professionals who seek to help them. The power of friendship beautifully portrayed.
Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything across Italy, India and Indonesia Elizabeth Gilbert, Viking Penguin, New York, 2006.
One of the most talked about books of 2010. It recounts the author’s recovery from a painful divorce, her search for God and for a healthy relationship. Her journey of self discovery takes a path through universal spirituality, but contains insights that could resonate with truth seekers of any faith.
When the Heart Waits: Spiritual Direction for Life’s Sacred Questions. Sue Monk Kidd, Harper Collins, New York, 1990.
Images of transformation and renewal permeate this memoir of the author's mid-life journey of change and growth. Based on a Christian worldview, it weaves Scripture and quotations from church fathers and mothers with Kidd’s life experiences. Beautifully written.
Untamed Christian, Unleashed Church: Th Extravagance of the Holy Spirit in Life and Ministry. Terry Wardle, Leafwood Press, Abiliene, Texas, 2010.
Wardle’s passion for a lively faith, his wide ranging knowledge of current and past Christian authors and his story telling ability, combine to make this a fun and inspiring read for anyone hungering for the work of the Spirit in their lives.
I would love to hear about your favorite books, especially those that challenge you to think, change and grow. Happy reading.