You Should Read These!

It's been discussed many times on this blog about the fact that I'm a read-aholic.  Today, I
thought I'd share with you 8 books that I think everyone needs to read at least once in their life.

1. The bible:  It goes without saying that I think everyone should read the entire bible at least once.  How can you make an informed decision about what you believe if you never read all that God has to say?  Nowadays, there is no excuse because you can find a version that is easy to understand and you can even find access to it on the internet and read it for free.  (See biblegateway.com .)  I love comparing the different versions, such as:  English Standard Version, the Amplified Version, Holman Christian Standard Bible, New Living Translation, and for pure reading enjoyment, The Message.

2.  To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Dive into this book for a better understanding of racism, injustice and a slice of life in the South in the fifties. I read this book multiple times wishing I really knew Jem, Scout, Dill, Atticus and Calpurnia. It was only later as an adult that I really understood the racial overtones.

3.  Karen by Marie Killilea:  This is another book I read so many times the covers fell off.  Karen is the true story of a child with cerebral palsy.  I recommend this book because it educates and informs about life with a disabled child while telling the story of a real family with real challenges.  I always wished Glo and Marie were my big sisters ...

4. Piercing the Darkness by Frank E. Peretti: Although it is Christian fiction, it explains supernatural warfare better than any I've read.  I was enthralled the first time I read it!

5.  The Left Behind series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins: I love this series that fictionalizes end-time events.  Although I know no one can possibly know how the end will all play out, I feel this series is biblically-based and follows scripture closely.  Plus, it's a really good read and keeps you on the end of your chair!

6.  Sophie's Heart by Lori Wick - a story of an immigrant meeting a widower.  The reason I think everyone should read it is because it is awesome to see how a Christian courtship should be.  It's also convicting to see how tender Sophie's heart was.

7.  Sink Reflections by Marla Cilley - This book revolutionized my housekeeping and organizational abilities.  Everyone needs their space to be organized!  Why, yes, yes I am a Flybaby!

8.  It Takes So Little To Be Above Average by Florence Littauer - In a world where it increasingly seems to be the norm in doing just enough to get by, Florence explains how a little extra effort makes all the difference.  I love this book!

There you have it, today's recommendations for 8 great books. What is YOUR favorite book?

This post was written in response to Writer's Workshop prompt 5.) List 8 books you've read that you think everyone should read in their lifetime.  You can link up, or view other great responses, at Kathy's blog, Mama's Losin It.