These books are the best ones I have read. Making this list is no small accomplishment. These books changed me, taught me and remain dear to my heart.

Kidd, Sue Monk. While the Heart Waits.  This book changed my view and approach to seasons of waiting.  It highlights the value of seasons of waiting and the valuable inner work that can only be accomplished through them. God shapes us during these times. Waiting is hard, but Kidd reminds us of the importance of waiting to growth and future success.

Miller, Paul E. A Praying Life: Connecting with God In A Distracting World.  This book holds a place close to my heart because the chapters on cynicism were deeply convicting and a part of the reason I rejoined e harmony as an outward act of surrender of this part of my life to God. A few months later I met my husband.  A refreshing, challenging and insightful book on prayer.

Voskamp, Ann. one thousand gifts. Given to me by my parents, I fell in love with Ann’s poignant raw writing. She captures the pain, beauty, difficulty and blessing of living a life of thanksgiving. The depth and truth within these pages begs for a slow reading, allowing the words and images to permeate and inspire.

Zusak, Markus. The Book Thief.  Death narrates the story of Liesel, a bookthief. She steals her first book when her brother dies on a train. It is here that her story begins. Set in Germany during WWII, Liesel discovers the power of words as her new family hides a Jewish man. Riveting.