Jan. 2, 2008 - 2007 Personal Reading List

I decided in January of 2007 to keep a list of all of the books I read throughout the year.  I really thought I'd posted more than just January, but it appears I have not!  This year, I tried to branch out a bit; read more classics, diversify.  As I glimpse through the books I've read, I am reminded of how much I gleaned from so many of them.  There are few on the list that I would not heartily recommend.  I know I've forgotten some of them, but as memory serves me, here is my long-awaited, updated, personal reading list from 2007.   Happy Reading!

I've seen quite a few bloggers posting a list of the books they're reading each month, and it seems like a good idea to me, so I've decided to do the same.  Before you ask, "When do you find time to read?" I read in the car traveling to and from Pennsylvania (we usually get out there twice a year), and I read before I go to bed at night (but not every night).  We have not been watching television as much, so that has extended my reading time.  Rarely do I read in the daytime, unless I am sick, or sometimes during "quiet time," but that's usually computer time.   Initially, I can read a couple of chapters a night, but with most books, I get to a point where I can not stop reading until I've finished the book.  I suffer the results in the morning. 

• Trial by Ordeal by Craig Parshall. Definately a "guy book."  I really wanted to like this one since it was written by Janet Parshall's husband (a quality chap), and in the end I did, but it took a long time to get into it and the writing seemed forced.  
• Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen.  Absolutely delightful! Charming!  The reading of this book was enhanced by watching Pride and Prejudice with my sister (who gave me Northanger Abbey ) when about half-way through the book.   
• The Messenger by Tim Woodroof.  Biblical Historical-Fiction centered around the church at Phillipi.  Very well-written! Captivating!  Tim Woodroof writes as though from personal experience,  focusing on several themes which are still relevant in today's churches.  Highly recommended!
• Glimpses of Paradise: A Novel  by James Scott Bell.  Christian Historical-Fiction novel set in WWI/post-war, small town America, and Hollywood.  A fun read which was also very interesting and thought provoking.  Excellent character development.  Recommended!
• Emma Lazarus Rediscovered by Eve Merriam.  Selections from Emma Lazarus' literary works tied together with biographical narrative.  I do not share her personal or political philosophy, but I really enjoyed learning about her and stretching my mind through reading the excerpts from her writings. 
• Mark of the Cross by Judith Pella.  Interesting love story set in the Middle Ages, but somewhat far fetched.  It was okay.

• The Greatest Game Ever Played by Mark Frost. This book took me over a year to complete, but I really enjoyed it.  I'm not a golfer myself, but read it in order to discuss it with my dad.  Extremely well written, and full of interesting historical and social information, this biography of golf would be a great gift idea for the golfer in your life. 

• Emma by Jane Austen.  Not nearly as enjoyable as Pride & Prejudice, I was a tad disappointed. 

• A Man Called Peter by Catherine Marshall.  A Christian classic, absolutely inspiring!  Read more here.

• Ishmael by E.D.E.N. Southworth.  This Lamplighter book is truly one of the best novels I've ever read in my entire life.  It reads like a soap-opera, but is so full of moral values and inspiring characters!  I could not put it down, and was thankful to have the sequel on hand to begin immediately after finishing. 

• Self-Raised by E.D.E.N. Southworth.  Suspenseful sequel to Ishmael, I devoured it like the first.  Loved it!

• Canadian West Series by Janette Oake (When Calls the Heart, When Breaks the Dawn, When Hope Spings New, When Comes the Spring).  This is my absolute favorite series by this beloved author!  It was a wonderful summertime treat to bury myself in it once again: like donning a favorite sweater! 

• The Last Jihad by Joel C. Rosenburg.  Gripping novel, critically aclaimed.  I could hardly put it down, and my husband enjoyed it thoroughly as well.

• The Last Days by Joel C. Rosenburg.  Exciting sequel to Last Jihad did not dissapoint. 

• Genesis of a Legacy by Ken & Steve Ham.  Part biography, part autobiography, part instructional; this book about the Ham family sheds light on Ken's passion for Creation Science, and challenges parents to put God's Word first in rearing their children.  Full of great insight!

• Thoughts for Young Men by J.C.Ryle.  A quick read, but chock full of practical biblical admonitions for young men.  Though written over a hundred years ago, it still hold tremendous relevance!  Recommended for boys ages 10-12 and up.

• Northwest Passage by Kenneth Roberts.  At over 700 pages in length, this is the longest book I've ever read, and one of the most captivating.  I was fascinated by the portrayal of Robert Rogers (Roger's Rangers-French and Indian War), and the authors ability to expose his impressive strengths and repulsive weaknesses so articulately!   Published in 1937, I appreciated the tact with which disturbing subject matter was presented; such is lacking in much acclaimed modern novels!  Excellent history, appropriate for mature high school students and above. 

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Patterson.  Not having read this as a child, I wanted to read it myself before allowing the kids to read it or see the movie.  I really enjoyed it, but decided it was slightly more mature than my son.  In my opinion it's appropriate for 11/12 year olds and up, and necessitates discussion. 

• Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary.  A childhood favorite that I wanted to reread before passing on to my daughter.  I still enjoy it! 

• A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith.  Few books have moved me in the way that this one did.  It struck a chord in my heart and provoked so much thought and emotion.  I lingered in that reflective place for days after finishing it.  If you haven't read it yourself, you must!

• Fifth Seal by Brock & Bodie Thoene.  This biblical historical fiction book (and its sequel) is a precious book to read during Advent.  Another excellent composition by two of my all-time favorite authors!

• Sixth Covenant by Brock & Bodie Thoene.  Sequel to Fifth Seal, I was sobbing by the end.  The reality of Christ's coming struck me anew as I read their interpretation of the biblical events surrounding the birth of our Savior.  Fabulous!

I have not yet completed the following books:

• The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life by Charles Stanley.  I was so blessed and challenged by this book, and then I set it aside and never finished.  I must do so soon.  My initial insights can be read here. 
• The Shaping of a Christian Family by Elisabeth Elliot.  Part biography, part autobiography.  This glimpse into the upbringing of Elisabeth as well as her parents' is very insightful, challenging, and thought provoking.  There is much practical application to be taken away. 
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.  A $3.50 Christmas present to myself.  My first Bronte book, and I am loving it!!!  No wonder it's a classic! :)

Feb. 1, 2007 - Great job,

Feb. 1, 2007 - Untitled Comment

Feb. 3, 2007 - Untitled Comment

Feb. 3, 2007 - Happy Reading!

Feb. 4, 2007 - Untitled Comment

Jan. 2, 2008 - I read one book last year :-) LOL

Jan. 2, 2008 - good choice

Jan. 5, 2008 - Untitled Comment