Summer is nearly here. My son waves Kindergarten goodbye this Friday at noon, so naturally, I hit up Costco for water balloons and popcorn like I’m Superwoman or something. I shall not only endure but enjoy this summer with water balloons, sweet ‘n’ salty popcorn, and books! As I’m headed into summer armed with a summer reading list I thought I would share mine and perhaps you might find some titles to add to your own summer list.

1. The Very Good Gospel by Lisa Sharon Harper. Author Lisa Sharon Harper pulls back the curtain on social issues and gives them Biblical context. From race to gender inequality to climate change, she gives scopes and direction to the issues we face today.
2. At Home In the World by Tsh Oxenreider. A travel memoir that actually includes children. Tsh claims we can love throw pillows and creating a home we love while globetrotting with little ones in tow. Not only does she claim it’s possible she shares how for 9 months she traveled the world with her family of five. I’ve already finished this one but have plans to re-read it as I plan my own globetrotting trips.
3. Anatomy of the Soul by Curt Thompson. I’ve been waiting to get my hands on a copy of this book and a dear friend lent it to me and I have zero chill about it. The book’s tagline says it all, “Surprising connections between neuroscience and spiritual practices that can transform your life and relationships.” Psychiatrist Curt Thompson explains in understandable terms connections between brain activity, the scriptures, and our growing relationship with the Lord.
4. Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance. You might have already read this one, but if not, add it to the pile. A first-hand look at white working-class Americans and the struggles they face will give all of us insight into the many faces and stories that make up our country.
5. The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver. I am eager to dig into this novel about a missionary family to the Congo in 1959. The story includes the ups and downs of the missionary parents and their daughters who arrive in the Congo with racial preconceptions and different ideas of what life will look like.
6. The Trouble I’ve Seen by Drew Hart. I’ve read Drew’s blog for awhile and he has something to say we all need to hear. In his book, he talks about racial reconciliation can look like within the church in the midst of police brutality, mass incarceration, and poverty.
7. Notorious RBG. I’m curious, like the rest of America, to peek into the life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
8. The Forest Feast Gatherings. The pictures of this cookbook look MAGICAL. I face-timed a friend to talk about this very book because it pulls out all the stops on food photography. Can’t wait to try some of the yummy recipes for guests!

What about you? What are you reading this summer?