Monday, October 8, 2018

The Bookbag * October 2018


Hey, my book loving friends!

This is the season we've been waiting for.  As the days get cooler and dusk backs itself right into late afternoon, we find ourselves spending more of our time indoors.  With a relieved anticipation, we're looking for spare moments to burrow ourselves into a comfy corner, warding off the chill with a quilt and pillows and all things cozy.

And in the process, our eager focus is turning toward that stack of books that have been oh-so-patiently waiting their turn.

I hope you'll find something here that's calling your name.  

*


Rhythms of Rest: Finding the Spirit of Sabbath in a Busy World
Shelly Miller
Author Shelly writes, 'Guilt is one of the main roadblocks for making Sabbath a reality.  Guilt about the things we leave undone, and guilt when we don't rest perfectly.  Lofty expectations about a day set apart for rest keep us immobilized, and Sabbath elusive.  Guilt is usually a sign that you've made rest a routine with strict rules.  If you struggle with guilt about taking time to rest, then perhaps you are trying to implement a Sabbath routine instead of a rhythm of rest.'

This gentle, grace-filled invitation to Sabbath rest is for:
- Those whose childhood Sabbath memories revolved around an endless, frustrating legalistic list of do's and don'ts

- Those whose Sabbath is currently jam-packed from morning til night with an exhausting string of church services, classes, practices, and meetings

- Those whose Sabbath has morphed into a day to catch up on errands, laundry, and a back-up of household tasks

This creative, beautifully penned book has the potential to upend what you thought Sabbath was all about in ways that will calm your spirit and draw you closer to Christ.  And not a moment too soon.

As I hit the PUBLISH button, the Kindle version is at the ridiculous price of 79 cents!  Grab this huge bargain right here!


Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life
Tish Harrison Warren
Author Tish writes, 'My morning smartphone ritual was brief - no more than five or ten minutes.  But I was imprinted.  My day was imprinted by technology.  And like a mountain lion cub attached to her humans, I'd look for all good things to come from glowing screens.

Without realizing it, I had slowly built a habit: a steady resistance to and dread of boredom.

We have everyday habits - formative practices - that constitute daily liturgies.  By reaching for my smartphone every morning, I had developed a ritual that trained me toward a certain end: entertainment and stimulation via technology.  Regardless of my professed worldview or particular Christian subculture, my unexamined daily habit was shaping me into a worshiper of glowing screens.'

And that's just a taste of what Tish puts on the table.  This Christianity Today 2018 Book of the Year is a must read to savor, to journal over, to discuss with those closest to you.  For yes, the sacred can be glimpsed in the ordinaryness of our everyday lives ... making the bed, brushing teeth, losing keys, or sitting in traffic.

A superb book club choice.


Stars Over Sunset Boulevard
Susan Meissner
And if you crave historical fiction, look no further than Susan Meissner.  This author's become a favorite in the last year or so with her mesmerizing storylines and fascinating characters.

If you're a Gone with the Wind fan, if you cherish one or two lifelong friendships with women, if seemingly innocent lies have webbed their way into your heart and almost destroyed everything that has meaning, this is your book.

Set in Hollywood in 1938 with a mysterious find that emerges in 2012, this is historical fiction at vintage perfection.


Betty Ford: First Lady, Women's Advocate, Survivor, Trailblazer
Lisa McCubbin
I'm guessing I've read at least one bio of every First Lady.  There's something fascinating in sneaking a peek behind the scenes of power to glimpse the life of women who were thrust into roles that many never expected or yearned for.

Betty Ford's legacy is one of candor and impact.  For what presidential spouse before her spoke so honestly about breast cancer, addiction to pain medication, or alcoholism?

It makes you wonder how many lives were saved because this First Lady gave up her privacy to share the truth of her life.  This book reads like a compelling family story, not a political datebook.  The family intervention that ultimately propelled Mrs. Ford into getting treatment is a powerful, sensitive glimpse into the dark night lived by those entrapped by addiction ... and those who love them.  This alone makes this book important reading.

And the decidedly non-partisan tone of this Presidential couple's journey and relationships is a breath of fresh air in the current political season we find ourselves in.




BOOKISH LINKS
Laura Lippman

Jenn Granneman

Jeff Goins

*

BOOKS I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO CURLING UP WITH
Brene Brown

Joanna Gaines

John Grisham

Anne Lamott

Alice Mathews

Adam McHugh

*

What page-turners are stashed in your bookbag, 
perched on your night table, or stacked in that ever-growing pile?


COMING SOON!


THE CD GIVEAWAY!

so you don't miss out!

*


*

sharing great reads with

56 comments:

  1. It's good to talk books with you today, Linda! I'm especially drawn to Liturgy of the Ordinary but all of these sound great!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'd love to read your review if you read it, Lesley!

      Delete
  2. I get excited when I see "The Bookbag" in my news reader! Your books always look so inviting to me too, Linda. Wish I had nothing but time to read them all.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Lisa, you're an encourager. Your words are kind!

      ;-}

      Delete
  3. All of these books sound wonderful Linda, but I admit I'm drawn to reading Rhythms of Rest, sounds very intriguing. And I can relate to the pull of the crazy smartphones in our lives, too. I love fall and winter, just for the reasons you mentioned, cold dreary days are the perfect time to curl up and just relax after a busy spring and summer season. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. While I still fight to find every summer-like day, I've got to admit that it's bid us farewell ...

      Delete
  4. My books of late have focused on suffering and how to deal with it. I just finished reading Laura Story's book "When God Doesn't Fix It." Touching and inspirational. I'm reading Therefore I Have Hope by Cameron Cole. It is about losing his 3 year old son unexpectedly. I have Suffering by Tripp next in line and another my brother recommended called "The Cure" (What if God isn't who you think he is and neither are you).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. These are hard books to read. I find I can only read one heartbreaking book at a time and then need to process or grieve or whatever and read something lighter next go round.

      How does immersing your mind / heart in grief books work for you, Bill? I'm curious ...

      Delete
  5. Ah, I have the Anne Lamott book saved on Amazon. The book on Betty Ford looks interesting. She became a spokesperson for things far more important than politics. I always enjoy your lists and find new authors and titles.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anne is an intriguing writer. Her language is a bit coarse here and there which puts me off. But I've found her to have some interesting perspectives along the way ...

      Delete
  6. All of these sound interesting, Linda. I'm intrigued by Betty Ford's courage to share her story. I'm sure it is making an impact on others who need to hear they're not alone. I love how Laura Lippman gives her books away. :) I've been reading and loving Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue series. I am waiting to read the newest one. Love and hugs to you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for the thumbs up on Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue series, Trudy! I'm jotting it down to check it out ... when my list wanes a bit.

      ;-}

      Delete
  7. Oh, wow, Linda, what a fantastic list! I can't wait to hit the library - if I ordered all the books I want here, I'd be broke - lol!
    And I don't know if you are aware, but I've written two series of books, too. You can check them out at www.gladetrilogy.wix.com/theglade
    Blessings!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for letting readers know about your two series, Martha!

      Yay!

      And yes please and thank you for the public library. We're in a huge system here with a number of Christian books available. If what I'm looking for isn't there, it has to be REALLY good for me to buy.

      Delete
  8. These all look good! Unfortunately right now the only books I am reading are work related, but these will be on my list next month. Thanks for these reviews!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Would you be willing to share what you're reading for work? I'm guessing a number of readers would be interested ...

      Delete
  9. This is the second blog on which I have seen Rhythms of Rest this week. Some years ago when I "discovered" the last few verses of Isaiah 58, it changed my perspective so much. It spoke of regarding the Sabbath as a delight and seeking God's pleasure rather than our own. I think that was the first time I realized that the Sabbath was not just about physical rest, but it was about a day for God. And something to delight in!

    I've loved a couple of Susan Meissner's books. That looks like another good one.

    I got my first Grisham book at a library sale during the summer. It may be a candidate for those cozy winter reading times coming up soon.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Don't you just love a library book sale?!

      The best ones were the county wide $5 a bag days back in NY. Oh did I have a good time!

      ;-}

      Give Rhythms of Rest a try if you can, Barbara. The perspective was so very different than what I've known or experienced ... about His deep love for us and wanting to give us refreshment and joy.

      A superb blessing ...

      Delete
  10. linda, I ordered Shelly Miller's book - while my life doesn't look busy from the outside so much, it is chaotic in other ways. This sounds like something i'd like and for $.79 I can easily afford it in this time of extra expenses. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know, I know! You can't even buy a candy bar for 79 cents! I'm so excited about this deal!

      ;-}

      Delete
  11. You always leave us with so many good choices! I'm definitely going to have to check out the Susan Meissner book. I have not read any of hers yet but I love historical fiction. I usually am reading a non-fiction and fiction book at the coinciding times.

    Thanks for treating us to these goodies!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have adored each of Susan's books ... except there was one that had a ghost in the first few pages and I closed that one. I stay away from that kind of stuff.

      But anything else? FABULOUS!

      Let me know what you think, Mary, ok?

      Delete
  12. Ah so many books! Sometimes it's so hard to discipline myself not to click that purchase button when I have so many already unread. :) We are blessed with many wonderful, 'effective' writers as Jeff Goins calls the best writing. Currently I an reading anthologies of literary essays as that is what genre I'm learning to write. And working through Gary Thomas's the Sacred Search and after that will be the The Mingling of Souls. Honestly not sure why I'm to read these books fully, yet think I'm being obedient doing so! Time will tell! Happy reading!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Didn't you just love Jeff's emphasis on effectiveness? What a gamechanger.

      But meanwhile, it sounds like you're paging through some heavy duty reads, Lynn ... I look forward to hearing how they're impacting you. I admire your obedience in moving in those directions even and especially when you're not sure why.

      Sounds like faith at work ...

      ;-}

      Delete
  13. I am reading Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. Have you read it?

    ReplyDelete
  14. When I read your lists, I am always left wondering if we are bookish twins that were separated at birth . . .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. * smile *

      Your wonderings make me appreciate you even more than I already did ...

      Delete
  15. As always, Linda, books on your list sent me right over to search section on my library's website. This time, it is the Liturgy of the Ordinary and the novel by Susan Meissner that caught my eye. And I now have a hold on Homebody ... 66th in line and it's not even out yet!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for your affirmation that some of these books are definitely search-worthy, Lois! That means alot to me.

      66th in line ... yep, I've been there ... and lots worse. I'm guessing this one will be worth the wait. I renewed Joanna's Magnolia Table three times and alas, it finally has to go back to the library in a few minutes.

      * sigh *

      Delete
  16. Linda, my stack of to-be-read's is short. I have one book review to write and I'm going to take a break. I need to write another book and then we'll see!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm in awe of anyone who has the focus and passion to write a book, Susan! Please know my hat's off to you with admiration.

      You go, girl ...

      ;-}

      Delete
  17. There was ONE copy of Liturgy of the Ordinary in the library system so I snagged it quick. Can't wait for it to come in. We have become a slower, relaxed and mindful household at my home but there's so much more to learn. So excited about this book!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And you said this, Valerie --> 'We have become a slower, relaxed and mindful household ...'

      And it made my heart soar with gratitude.

      Blessings to you guys ...

      Delete
  18. Linda, I'm definitely going to check out the Sabbath Rhythms book. Emily P Freeman was also recommending it, and it sounds like what I need.

    And I'd forgotten about Betty Ford. What an important story!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You'll love it, Betsy. And for 79 cents, WOW!

      I look forward to hearing your thoughts and responses. Such a powerful book ...

      Delete
  19. What a great month of reading. I just bought the Rhythm of Rest. I had been wanting to read it and now I can. Thanks for the heads up on the price. Your to read list also looks fun. I have Joanna Gaines book on my wish list but I am waiting til I am in a place where I can have real books not just the e-kind. Blessings.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. * smile *

      I hear you about 'real books' and not the 'e-kind' TJ. I love the feel of a real live book in my hand, my lap, the heft, the scent, the act of page-turning ... especially after all the hours already spent in front of screens.

      It's such a breath of fresh air.

      But I've been known to put a book on my reader here and there because the price was so fabulous I just couldn't say 'no.'

      Enjoy the read, friend!

      Delete
  20. Some great reads.

    http://www.henatayeb.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  21. This is a very interesting list. I have heard SO much about Tish Harrison Warren's book, but I have never got around to reading it ... yet. I'm also intrigued by the Meissner title because I have heard a number of people praising her fiction. I read SO much more nonfiction than fiction that I really want my fiction reads to be extra-good (which didn't happen to me this month because I only read a "had-to" novel for a book club).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jeannie ... I'll go out on a limb and say yes, Susan Meissner's stories are 'extra-good'!

      Let me know what you think. It's good to connect with you today.

      ;-}

      Delete
  22. Your first two books really catch my eye, Linda. I've seen Shelly's book all around the web and am reminded that she was one of the bloggers I used to follow back when I first started blogging nearly ten years ago. It would be really interesting to read her thoughts--especially since that topic (in both of the first two books you've highlighted) is one I'm interested in. I need to be better about making time for a true Sabbath, rather than following through on certain routines in my life. Thanks for sharing these, my friend! I'm praying God blesses you here and in real life!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Beth!

      In your role as the wife of a pastor, I'd be especially interested on your take on Sabbath and the impact of Shelly's book. It's incredibly difficult for pastors and their families to live this out because of the 24 / 7 expectations they face.

      Please let me know if you get to read this. I'd love YOU to write something on the impact of Sabbath-keeping on marriage and ministry.

      It'd be a best seller for sure ...

      ;-}

      Delete
  23. I am new to your blog. Not sure how I found you, but glad I did. I heard about Rhythm of Rest on a new-to-me podcast. I think it was on The Next Right Thing. Needless to say I used the buy with 1-click feature for that one.

    I have recently returned to a spiritual book group and we are reading The Grateful Disciple. I find it thought provoking and an easy book for conversation.

    I'm currently reading And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. I have been away from reading for a while and am happy to be back.

    Thank you for your blog.
    April

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. April, hi! I'm glad you found me, too!

      Sounds like you're an Emily Freeman fan {me, too} ... in fact, I was just listening to her fabulous podcast just a few minutes ago.

      Agatha Christie was a favorite author when I was a teenager. Maybe I'll revisit her again.

      Please come and visit again, ok?

      ;-}

      Delete
  24. Linda, these sound like fabulous books! The quote you shared from Rhythms of Rest really stopped me and got me pondering. And the books by Susan Meissner....I really enjoy her writing. I will have to look that one up too. :)

    I always enjoy hearing about what other people have read. :) Thanks for sharing your list!

    Right now, I'm working on reading through magazines that have patiently awaited my attention for months. And, I'm reading a nonfiction book (VERY slowly--it's hard to read because it's very scientific) to give me insight into a condition someone I love is dealing with. I am also reading June Bug, by Chris Fabry. It's a book about a girl who finds her face on a Missing Child poster in a WalMart, only she didn't know she was missing....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hear you about the stack of magazines, Jeanne! They do seem to pile up, don't they ... and there's those moments where nothing else but flipping through their pages will do.

      And I understand what you're saying about those very-slow-reading books that we're compelled to read because we so want to gain insight into the world of those we care about.

      Yes, yes, I do ...

      Delete
  25. Wow! This is a fabulous list. I'm so glad to have found your blog. I want to read everything :) If only there were enough hours in the day!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm glad you found me, too, Aimee!

      And you're absolutely right ... so many books, so little time.

      ;-}

      Delete
  26. Linda! So kind of you to share about Rhythms of Rest. I'm honored and humbled by your generosity. You've got some great recommendations in your list and what a gift to be included among them!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Your book has been a big hit around here this month, Shelly. I'm blessed to share it with those in my world.

      Thank you for taking time to say 'hi' ... it means alot. Bless you!

      Delete