In light of our forced sequestration I thought I would come out early with my summer reading list. Here are a dozen books I want to read or reread. I trust that some of them may motivate and inspire you this summer. I have listed the books in alphabetical order by the author.

1. The Victors by Stephen Ambrose – This is an amazing story about the D-Day invasion (you may want to read this before June 6th for a fresh appreciation of the sacrifice that was made). When you read this book you will see why Brokaw called this the greatest generation.

2. The Second Mountain by David Brooks – I enjoyed Brooks’ prequel to this book, The Road to Character, and I’m looking forward to seeing how he develops his ideas as people move from being self-centered to other-centered.

3. How the Irish Saved Civilization by Thomas Cahill – I must admit, my Irish heritage loves this title. This is a great book showing the how the isle of saints and scholars literally saved civilization.

4. To Have and Be by Erich Fromm – I have always appreciated the practical nature of Fromm’s writings as he critiques materialism vis-a-vis living a life of meaning.

5. How Not to Die by Dr. Michael Greger – I have enjoyed Dr. Greger’s website, nutritionfacts.org, and I’m looking forward to reading his book on science based nutrition.

6. The Road to Sparta by Dean Karnakas – This is an inspirational story about Pheidippides who changed the course of history in his historic run (you’ll be surprised to see how far he really ran).

7. The Gospel According to Job by Michael Mason – This book contains great spiritual insights on the depth of character of the man Job.

8. The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown – We often take breathing for granted, but McKeown points out this is one of the most significant things that we can learn to do well.

9. Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek – A few years ago I read Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action and was impressed by his insights. Learning to eat last was a principle I learned from my time in the military.

10. Longitude by Dava Sobel – This is the story of an individual who solved one of the greatest scientific problems of his day. Dava Sobel is a fascinating science writer and I’m looking forward to reading this book.

11. Is This All There Is To Life by Ray Stedman – Stedman provides a commentary on the book of Ecclesiastes filled with pastoral insights.

12. Christianity For People Who Aren’t Christians by James Emery White – White tackles some of the common questions that unbelievers have about Christianity.

I trust you’ll find a book or two on this list that will inspire your summer reading. What’s on your summer reading list?

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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