It's that time of month again, friends, where we're talking books, sharing all those great links and finds, resources and reading-related goodies with one another.
It's like a book club open house.
And I love doing this with you.
It's like a book club open house.
And I love doing this with you.
A great big welcome to Modern Mrs Darcy readers. Each month hundreds of you well-read book aficionados drop in around the 15th for Quick Lit, 'where we share short and sweet book reviews of what we've been reading lately.' Please know I'm so very happy whenever you find your way here. Feel free to sit quietly and soak up the conversation ... or jump right on into the discussion in the comment section. This is a safe and welcoming place, not at all cliquey.
And be sure that if you take the time to leave a comment, I'll be returning that grace over at your place. That's how we roll around here.
* * * This month, I'm excited to be giving away a copy of one of my ALL - TIME beloved books from one of my favorite authors, Adam McHugh, Introverts in the Church: Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture {revised and expanded}. Read on ...
And be sure that if you take the time to leave a comment, I'll be returning that grace over at your place. That's how we roll around here.
* * * This month, I'm excited to be giving away a copy of one of my ALL - TIME beloved books from one of my favorite authors, Adam McHugh, Introverts in the Church: Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture {revised and expanded}. Read on ...
HERE'S WHAT YOU'RE SAYING
You are such an incredible resourcer of great books, Linda! I know I can count on you to find the latest inspirational read or two!
Beth
I always love your book reviews/recs. Thank you!
Beth
I always love your book reviews/recs. Thank you!
When I read your lists, I am always left wondering if we are bookish twins that were separated at birth . . .
Michele
You always leave us with so many good choices!
Michele
You always leave us with so many good choices!
I get excited when I see "The Bookbag" in my news reader! Your books always look so inviting to me too, Linda.
I always enjoy a peak into your book bag, Linda!
June
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!
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!
FINEST READS
Invitation to Retreat: The Gift and Necessity of Time Away with God -Ruth Haley Barton
I've always considered Ruth to be a mentor-from-afar. Her books on women in ministry were much-needed companions early on. And Invitation to Solitude and Silence was an absolute game-changer in my life, kind of a north star reorienting me to what was most urgent and valuable in the growth of my faith.
Earlier this year we did a 6 session discussion on that book right here on the blog. If you missed it, I encourage you to head here to read through readers' heartfelt insights and hard won observations in the comment sections. It truly was one of 2018's highlights.
Back to Retreat. This is a fine book, a lovely guidebook for retreating well. We're not talking ice-breakers and party games, friends. We're talking about a gentle invitation to intimacy with God, a 'yes' for souls who are parched and yearning for something deeper that can only be discovered in the still and solitary places.
As Ruth said, 'many of us are looking for more - and we have a sense that there is more if we could create more space for quiet to give attention to God at the center of our beings.' I've attended one of her retreats and I can testify that not only is our yearning real, but there is a re-fueling for our weariness that awaits those who open themselves up to the Spirit's wooing.
Invitation to Retreat podcasts start this week. I'm betting they're going to be a rich offering. Click here to go there.
Becoming Mrs. Lewis: The Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C.S. Lewis -
Patti Callahan
In the last year, I've become a great big fan of historical fiction. And hands down, Patti Callahan's beautiful saga of the intimate relationship between C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman is now tops on my list. Captivating, enthralling, all those good things. The dialogue is so real and rich, their journey into the depths of intellectual and spiritual truths so mesmerizing. And yes, love finds a way although there are numerous twists and turns that finally take them there.
This is an absolute MUST READ for your book club. There are so many layers to unearth and reflect on. Be sure to tell me what you think.
Introverts in the Church: Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture {revised and expanded} - Adam S. McHugh
Way back in 2009, Adam opened up a whole new world of understanding for this introvert. Who I authentically was deep in my soul. How that impacted the way I related, my reaction to stress and crowds and craziness, how I preferred to do community, and the potential for non-Type A people like me to lead in the church.
I saw myself in every page. It was quite the adventure.
Adam's back with this updated edition with a renewed emphasis on 'celebrating our temperament and embracing the gifts we have to offer society and the church.' I, for one, am so happy that he's opened the dialogue yet once again and I want to share a FREE copy of this, one of my favorite books of all time with you.
Read on to find out about this giveaway.
And if you want a peek at Adam's writing and our lengthy discussion earlier this year, head right over to my post Adam McHugh Is In the House! where you can get to know Adam and check out a fabulous book open house on his other outstanding book, The Listening Life.
Cozy Minimalist Home: More Style, Less Stuff -
Myquillyn Smith
What a fun book to page through! If your house is kind of blah and uninspiring, Myquillyn walks you through the steps to seeing your home with fresh eyes and getting brave enough to reconfigure what already's there. She's practical and not at all pretentious, having lived in a number of rentals along the way.
You might be surprised at the order in which she proceeds, but if you follow her lead, I'm guessing you're going to be very, very happy with the results! This is a laid back, completely unintimidating journey toward clearing out and then cozying up your home, wise suggestions on needed purchases, keeping what you love and use ... and saying 'farewell' to all the random tchotchkes and stuff that's taken up residence in your rooms.
I'd love to hear your stories.
READING & WRITING LINKS
Anne Bogel
Susan Orlean
Michele Morin
Emily Belz
Crystal Storms
What should you read next? For thousands,
the person to ask is Anne Bogel
Angela Haupt
The lost art of condolance
Emily Belz
What should you read next? For thousands,
the person to ask is Anne Bogel
Angela Haupt
The lost art of condolance
Emily Belz
THE GIVEAWAY
To enter the giveaway of a copy of Introverts in the Church: Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture {revised and expanded}, leave a comment on this post by Friday, November 16th at 6 pm {eastern}. U.S. only. Please be sure that your contact information is readily available when I click on your name. You may enter via email as well. Send your comment to lindastoll @ juno . com
Whatcha been reading in recent weeks?
*
FRIDAY GIVEAWAY UPDATE!
Congrats to the winner
*
FRIDAY GIVEAWAY UPDATE!
Congrats to the winner
Lisa Burgess
@
COMING UP!
The Ellie Clair Art Journal Giveaway
The Chris Tomlin HOLY ROAR CD Giveaway
Loose Ends newsletters
The Bookbag posts
and more!
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talking books with
I loved the posts you linked to. The one on sources was insightful and made me want to be even more diligent when I write my posts to give credit where credit is due. The one on condolences was much needed. I feel this is an area that I have been weak in.
ReplyDeleteHi TJ ...my 88 year old mom is my inspiration for reaching out to others via notes and cards. It's a beautiful part of her legacy, one that has impacted countless hurting people over decades.
DeleteWhen I grow up, I hope to be just like her ...
;-)
I always enjoy hearing about what other people are reading! I've been able to read a little more than usual due to some sick days. Fly Away by Lynn Austin was really good, as were My Hands Came Away Red by Lisa McKay and The Lost castle by Kristy Cambron. Becoming Mrs. Lewis sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the bookish gift list! The link about plagiarism was sobering. One day in the shower I thought of the perfect title for my WIP. The next day, scrolling through my Kindle books, I found another book by that exact title! I had no memory that there was such a book, much less of buying it. Interesting to know that there's software to detect that kind of thing now.
(No need to enter me in the contest, thank you. I've already read the book.)
WIP?
DeleteConfession - I had to Google this which shows you exactly how ignorant I am!
Work In Progress. Yes, now I get it.
You can tell I'm not a writer, can't you!
;-}
Hey Linda! I am extreme extrovert. Do I need to read that book? :) My wife is in introvert but I think after 45 years I understand her pretty well.
ReplyDeleteI think that as a pastor you might find this quite interesting as you look out over your flock!
DeleteLet me know what you think if you do, Bill ...
CS Lewis love story--what's NOT to like about that! Cannot wait to read!
ReplyDeleteBlessings, My Friend!
best . love . story . ever
Delete;-}
You always give great book recommendations! I especially like the sound of Introverts in the Church- I'll have to check that out!
ReplyDeleteI've been reading The Five Dysfunctions Of A Team by Patrick Lencioni and it's been really interesting. We are going to be discussing it as a team at work soon so it will be interesting to get others' insights. (I should say that the team I work with is lovely and not particularly dysfunctional but there are still ways we can learn to work better together!)
It's so nice to hear that someone thinks their team is lovely! In this culture of moaning and groaning, gossip and complaining, that is such a rare gift ... I'm glad you've shared it with us, Lesley.
DeleteIntroverts in the Church! Yes! Thanks so much for these recommendations, Linda. Mrs Lewis' story sounds like an interesting read. Blessings to you!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy, friend!
DeleteOoh that sounds like a good read! As an introvert it often feels like a struggle to fit into an extroverted church/world
ReplyDeleteAin't that the truth. And how freeing it is when we realize that God has shaped us to be who we are, not someone else's vision of who we should be.
DeleteI love that!
So happy you're here today, Amy ...
I got a copy of Cozy Home Minimalist. Anxious to read it. I have been listening to the author being interviewed on several podcasts. As for the giveaway book, Introverts in the Church. That sounds like a good read.
ReplyDeleteSounds like we're resonating here, Theresa! I'd love to hear what you think about the Cozy Minimalist book. 'The Nester' is such a creative, delightful guide ...
DeletePlenty of reading material here. Thanx.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
You're welcome, kind sir. I hope you found something interesting here today ...
DeleteLove this collection! And this book looks fantastic. I can't wait to find out more!
ReplyDeleteOh I'm so glad you like what you're seeing Becky!
DeleteMy goodness, Linda, you make me want to read every single book you mention here. I'm going to have to pace myself, though, in ordering any right now. Hoping Christmas money will help line my shelves with new and inspirational reads. And I do love Adam McHugh's writing - so spot on for us introverts.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of good reads, I can't recommend Glynn Young's Dancing Priest Series enough! You can find them on Amazon by just typing in his name.
Blessings, my friend!
Christmas money {or an Amazon gift card?!} A perfect gift idea for those of us who don't mind shopping for ourselves!
Delete* hint hint *
;-}
As always, thank you for showcasing such interesting, inspiring books, Linda. Adam McHugh's The Listening Life was such an eye-opener for me. It felt like he understood my thinking. It sounds like this book is excellent, too, especially since I am an introvert. Love and hugs to you!
ReplyDeleteIf you liked The Listening Life, you'll most likely be a fan of Introverts in the Church.
DeleteAdam gets it. Yes, he does.
I'm a fan ...
Some of these sound very interesting. Many people often speak of summer reads but I find myself reading much more often in the winter time. It grows dark so much earlier and I don't often watch TV.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, Kara, winter is prime book reading time ... it gets dark so EARLY these days!
DeleteAdd a quilt and a cup of tea and I'm good for hours.
And TV? Well, let's just say there's not a whole lot on, is there.
I could just camp here for a long time, Linda! :) Thanks for sharing all your wonderful finds around the web.
ReplyDeleteJust hearing you could 'camp here' is kinda like music to my ears, Lisa. So sweet, yes.
Delete;-}
I'm excited to read becoming Mrs Lewis. I'm on the books list, so hopefully I'll get out soon.
ReplyDeleteOh, it's SO good, Jill ... on so many levels. Callahan is a gifted author, for sure ...
DeleteI am always on the lookout for a good book for introverts. This looks like a really interesting one and would make a great gift for my brother. Glad to have found you on Modern Mrs. Darcy!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're here, too! Honestly, it's the best book on introverts I've read. Right up there with Susan Cain's 'Quiet Revolution.'
DeleteI love finding other literary lovlies on the internet! Thank you. laurensparks.net
ReplyDeleteAnd it's lovely having you here this afternoon, Lauren!
DeleteI loved reading and being part of the book discussion of Ruth Haley Barton's book, Invitation to Solitude and Silence. It was a game changer for me too. I enjoyed her style of writing so I am sure I auld also enjoy her book "Invitation to Retreat".
ReplyDeleteHow fun that you are giving away a book. What a sweet treat for anyone.
I'm thinking you'd really appreciate the Retreat book. Yes, Mary ...
DeleteLet me know what you think!
Becoming Mrs. Lewis has moved higher up in my TBR list, thanks to you. The book about introverts in the church is interesting to me as I'm both an introvert and a member of my church council. We just had a great council retreat last Saturday, BTW. 😊
ReplyDeleteYep, Introverts will certainly hit home for you as both an introvert and a church leader! I'd love to connect with you as you make your way through both books!
DeleteI loved Adam's other book, The Listening Life. Introverts in the Church sounds right up my alley! And I'll have to check out Becoming Mrs. Lewis. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteSounds like we're resonating, Alison ... for sure!
DeleteBecoming Mrs. Lewis grabs my attention. Sounds like you enjoyed it, and I hope to as well. Scribbling it on the "to read" list now. ;-) Thanks so much, Linda, for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI loved that you scribbled it on to your 'to read' list, Kristi!
Delete;-}
Really enjoyed your post, Linda. I recently purchased McHugh's book and am looking forward to reading it. And I'm very interested in the one about C.S. Lewis as well. I remember enjoying the "Shadowlands" movie so much. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteJeannie, hi! Yes, I was just thinking of Shadowlands this week ... it's been years since I saw it and after reading the book, I can't wait to watch it yet once again ...
DeleteBecoming Mrs. Lewis..yes! That sounds like a must read! I'll have to look into that for sure for our book club. I'm slugging through a current read right now. It's one I've considered abandoning so not one I'll share here as not sure I'd recommend it!
ReplyDeleteFunny you should mention trying to make your way through a book that just might need to be abandoned, Lynn. I'm giving the one I'm paging through 'til about page 50 and then I'm done.
DeleteSo many books. So little time!
Bless your weekend, friend.