It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...Books Part 2

Here is the second part of a book list for Christmas (check out part one).  

Master of the Mountain: Thomas Jefferson and his Slaves by Henry Wienreck

Wienreck exposes us to a Jefferson who is filled with contradictions in the area of slavery. The biography reveals both Jefferson’s genius and his self-centeredness in a way that shows the brokenness of the human heart. It is a must read for those who are intrigued by early American History. For the rest, it is just a good read.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Perhaps the consummate biography of Steve Jobs. The book brings us from his youth to beginning Apple to leaving and coming back. Much of the research was done in the last months of Job’s life so there is a feeling of telling the fullness of Job’s story, both the good and the bad. 

 God is not One by Stephen Prothero

For all who believe that all roads lead to God, Prothero writes convincingly that such is not so. Prothero traces the idea of God in the major religions of the world (it is interesting to read his take on Christianity) and points out that they view God in radically different ways. In our multi-religious and anti Metanarrative setting the book is  a good summary to help us grasp the realty of the world of religious thought. 

Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West (Wicked Years) by Gregory Maguire,

  A Retelling of the story of The Wizard of Oz. Wicked definitely moves out of a child’s fairy tale and into an adult story that plays with themes of injustice, brokenness, prejudice, religious zealotry, and systems that pretend they are for the common good, but are not. If you have seen the musical be prepared for a much harsher story line and some uncomfortable reading.

 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

  A beautifully and hauntingly written novel.  The story of the struggles of a girl in Nazi Germany, the place of books and courage in the midst of that struggle. 

 Seeking God’s Face by Phil Reinders

 If you have not been introduced to this gem of “Praying with the Bible through the Year”, you need to be. Phil carries us day-by-day into God’s presence with scripture and prayer.  It is a wonderful way to remain grounded in God’s word and Phil’s imaginative prayers bring many to pray for things they would never have thought to pray for.

Triumph of the City: How Our Greatest Invention Makes Us Richer, Smarter, Greener, Healthier, and Happier by Edward Glaeser

The title give the outline for the book. Glaeser does a masterful job of introducing us to the place and importance of cities in the 21st century. A great primer and interesting read for all church leaders who understand the need to be involved in the missionary movement in the cities.