We're all busy. I get it. And often sitting down to read just feels like too much of a luxury. Or maybe you're one of those people who doesn't enjoy reading (I don't understand you but please keep reading! This post is for you too!). I consider reading relaxing and a great way to learn about new things. But with three young kids, housework, cooking, ministry to keep up with my reading time is significantly less than it used to be.
That hasn’t stopped me from stacking books to read on my nightstand and filling up my library account with holds. However, because my time is more limited now, I’m becoming more choosy about what I’ll spend time reading. Every book that looks interesting doesn’t get a pass like it used to. I measure how interested I am in the subject, how well I like the author, what benefit the book will have on me. I hate starting a book and not being able to finish it. There is a very short list of books I have started and not completed - most of them because of objectionable material that I just couldn’t put up with. So when I pick up a book, I want to know it’s something I will want to read and complete without feeling like I’ve wasted my time.
I know others are in the same situation. They may not take it as far as I do - I’ve been seen stirring spaghetti sauce while reading a book because I just couldn’t stop reading but my family still wanted to eat - but many busy women out there are trying to tackle their TBR lists and still keep life running smooth.
So here is my current list of novels that I think are worth your short, precious time to read.
The Butterfly and the Violin and A Sparrow in Terezin by Kristy Cambron
These dual time historical novels are beautiful and tragic. The present day stories follow the same woman as she learns about two different heroines during World War II. What they endured will haunt you.
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
A lighthouse keeper in 1920s Australia is torn between helping his distraught wife and following the law when a boat containing a baby washes ashore. The anguish he goes through and the resolution to the twisted lies they lead will bring you to tears. The movie was good but the book was much better.
As Bright as Heaven and Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Messiner
The first one is about a family newly in the funeral business when the flu epidemic of 1918 hits Philadelphia. One decision leads to events that trickle through the next decade. The second novel finds two sisters in London before the Blitz during World War II. Guilt drives one of them the rest of her life as she tries to undo one fateful morning.
While I have many other books that I’ve enjoyed, these are the ones that I kept thinking about long after closing the back cover. I’m working on a post of non fiction reads that I’ve enjoyed so keep your eyes open for that in the coming weeks.
What’s a book that has influenced you?
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash