My Summer Reads
My Summer Reads
“The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who cannot read them”- Mark Twain.
Because there’s a relationship between next level communicators and the commitment to lifelong learning, once a quarter I thought it would be helpful to share the ten latest books I’ve read. So far, I've finished thirty books, while Korie (my wife) announced she had just finished book thirty-two. In case you’re wondering, I started this competition and I’m not sure if I can catch her. Anyways, here’s my latest, and please let me know what’s been some of your faves this year:
Educated: A Memoir, Tara Westover.
I know I’m late to the party on this one, and given how brilliant this story is, I truly regret waiting so long.
The Greatest Gambling Story Ever Told, Mark Paul.
Definition of a beach read. I could not put this book down and finished in a day. Surely, someone will turn this into a film.
Here’s a public speaking cheat code: If you are ever looking for great illustrations, head on over to Amazon, type in, “Max Lucado,” and find a book he’s written which aligns with your topic, and you’re guaranteed to find a few move-to-the- edge of your seat stories.
Talk about a story which should be a film, this one actually was. Remember the men who were trapped in a Chilean mine a few thousand feet beneath the surface? This is their tale, and I loved every bit of it.
And how did I hear about Deep Down Dark? Kyle Idelman- one of my favorite communicators- referenced it in his book on faith, Don’t Give Up. Remember what I said about Max Lucado? Same for Kyle.
Sister, Sinner, Claire Hoffman.
This biography on the most famous female Christian leader of her time- Aimee Semple McPherson- will leave your head spinning, as you try to figure out if her faith was authentic or an act. If you are in vocational ministry like myself, this book serves as a cautionary tale for how easy it is to be drawn away by the bright lights of fame.
The Cross Before Me, Rankin Wilbourne.
I love Rankin, and like most people, was introduced to him through his book, Union with Christ- one of the very few books I make it a habit to re-read. He has a way of writing with great clarity, the complexities of faith and our walk with God. I left inspired.
Contentment: The Secret to Lasting Calm, Richard Swenson.
Richard Swenson is a follower of Jesus who is also a medical doctor. If you haven’t read his book, Margin, don’t let 2026 end without doing so. If I had to make a list of the top ten most impactful books I’ve read in this century, Margin would be near the top. I was drawn to Contentment, because, I mean, who couldn’t use a little more contentment in their life, right?
Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage, Belle Burden.
Belle’s painful story of divorce has gained a wide reading. Really good. Really hard.
I’ve known Scott for years, and have even been honored to endorse one of his books. When I learned he was releasing another project, I jumped at the chance to pick this up. His subject is as old as the gospel, but hey, we can never learn too much of grace and mercy.
Okay, so I’m looking at my list and thinking I have to get my fiction game up. So for you lovers of fiction, what you got for me?
Hope your summer is going well.
