I go to the library to get lost. I can completely lose
myself weaving in and out of the rows and columns of books, stepping into the
imaginations of a million different minds.
I get overwhelmed when I think that there are thousands upon thousands
of stories and dreams bound up and stacked high to the ceiling. Many are
probably boring or raunchy and not worth my time – but I always know there’s a
gem out there waiting for me.
It’s almost like a treasure hunt. Sometimes I close my eyes
and run my fingers over the spines, until I land on one that I feel might be good. I’ll
explore the cover and even read the first few pages, but normally I don’t
commit. There’s just something about a great book, once you find one you can’t
go back to those of lesser quality. Call me a literature snob but I just don’t
want to waste my time reading something that doesn’t move me, or cause me to actually
think about life, and love, and beauty. And I can’t stand books that leave me with
a bad taste in my mouth.
All of that being said, and although I completely enjoy the thrill of getting lost in a pile of books – by the end I often find myself wanting
some type of direction. So this time I consulted various librarians and good reads, and I’ve
yet to discover if their suggestions are good or not. But for those of you who,
like me, would like some direction, here’s what I’ve been reading lately.
Radical Womanhood
– Worth the read. Christian single woman’s perspective on feminism and the
church. Leans heavy complementarian.
Great Divorce –
Typical C.S. Lewis, which means soul-wrenchingly wonderful if you can grasp the
depth of his meaning.
Brothers Karamozov
– Quite long, but worth it if you can get through it. Strongly developed
characters and goes deep into understanding the human heart. Made me want to
read more Russian literature. Anna Karenina you’re next!
Harry Potter and the
Deathly Hallows – I don’t think I actually need to review this because of
course it’s magical. Favorite part this time around Harry choosing to trust
Dumbledore despite reason. Tear jerker.
Blue Like Jazz – I
know I should stop reading books I’ve already read but the end of the Romance
chapter is so well said. Just go read it.
Gilead – So far
writing is excellent, love the imagery. Haven’t quite finished though, but it
has great flow. Letters from father to son.
A Praying Life –
Very, very good. Praying like a child! Unfortunately left it at my grandmothers
and haven’t been able to finish.
A Holy Wild - Mark Buchanan, a bit over the top, but some
excellent points on rest and trust. Writes about the thrilling and adventurous
side of God’s character, which I like.
The Sun Also Rises –
My attempt at Hemmingway. Someone told me his writing was enticing, and I can’t
remember much of Old Man and the Sea so I thought I’d try again. I think they
actually called it sexy but I feel like that word can be taken a bit out of
context.
