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At first, I felt like I hadn’t read nearly as much this year as in years past. But when I sat down and made a list, I realized I had finished over 40 books!

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People often ask me how I manage to read so much, and here’s my answer:

1. I love to read. You make time for what you love.
2. I always have a book nearby. There’s one in my car, one by my bed, one in the living room… you get the idea.
3. I count audiobooks as reading. Out of the 42 books, I listened to 14 of them. Audiobooks make it easy to fit reading into walks, commutes, and chores.

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For full reviews of these books, you can check out my Goodreads profile [link here]. But here’s the simple list with my personal ratings.

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📚 Biographies & Historical Non-Fiction

The Wager by David Grann – 9/10

Milton Hershey by Janet Benge – 10/10

Ben Franklin by Janet Benge – 10/10

John Newton by Janet Benge – 9/10

William Wilberforce by Janet Benge – 9/10

George Washington Carver by Janet Benge – 10/10

Nate Saint by Janet Benge – 9/10

Elizabeth Fry by Janet Benge – 9/10

Becoming Elizabeth Elliot by Ellen Vaughn – 8/10

Being Elizabeth Elliot by Ellen Vaughn – 10/10

57 Bus by Dashka Slater – 6/10

Night by Elie Wiesel – 10/10

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson – 10/10

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown – 10/10

Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman! by Richard Feynman – 7/10

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🙏 Faith & Spiritual Growth

The Study of Romans by Melissa Spoelstra – 9/10

Anxiety, Depression, and Jesus by Aaron Hoover – 10/10

Every Day a Miracle by Matthew Brown – 9/10

Ruling in the Gates by Joseph Mattera – 7/10

Prevail by Susie Larson – 10/10

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👨‍👩‍👦 Read Aloud with the Kids

Marvel by Levi Lusko – 8/10

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis – 10/10

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo – 10/10

The Adventures of Robin Hood by Roger Green – 8/10

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown – 8/10

The Winter Rescue by Paul Hutchens – 8/10

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📖 Fiction

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng – 7/10

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin – 7/10

The Women by Kristin Hannah – 9/10

Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese – 9/10

Peace Like a River by Leif Enger – 9/10

I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger – 9/10

The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger – 8/10

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🧸 Parenting

Praying Circles Around Your Children by Mark Batterson – 8/10

Spiritual Conversations with Children by Lacy Borgo – 10/10

Don’t Miss It by Reggie Joiner – 8/10

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🛠️ Personal Development & Leadership

Today Matters by John Maxwell – 8/10

16 Undeniable Laws of Communication by John Maxwell – 8/10

A View from the Top by Zig Ziglar – 9/10

Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara – 10/10

The Multiplication Factor by Mark Walker – 10/10

Guerilla Marketing for Writers by Jay Levinson – 8/10

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Stay tuned for my next post … Best Books of 2024!

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In the meantime, click here to see my favorite books from 2023!

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I’ve read five outstanding books recently, and can’t wait to tell you about them.

1. Unreasonable hospitality
2. The Splendid and the Vile
3. George Washington carver
4. Peace like a river
5. The adventures of Robin Hood

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1. Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

Rating 10/10

Review: Are you curious about how a struggling two-star restaurant in NYC became the world’s best restaurant? In “Unreasonable Hospitality,” Will Guidara shares his secret recipe, and spoiler alert—it’s not just about the food!

Guidara takes us on a journey behind the scenes of Eleven Madison Park, revealing how he and his team went from good to extraordinary by embracing a culture of over-the-top hospitality. Imagine being treated like a VIP every time you walk into a place—sounds amazing, right?

The book is packed with fun and inspiring stories, showing how little acts of kindness and attention to detail can make a huge difference and make guests feel truly special. The author (and restaurant owner) proves that care and hospitality can elevate any business.

What’s cool about this book is that it’s not just for people in the restaurant business. Whether you are a small business or manage a team in ANY industry, the principles of unreasonable hospitality can apply to you. It’s all about creating memorable experiences and building a culture where everyone feels valued.

If you are a person who wants to turn your business into a place where customers rave and employees thrive, this book is for you. It’s a delightful mix of practical tips and heartwarming stories that will leave you inspired to spread a little more kindness in your corner of the world.

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2. The Splendid and The Vile by Erik Larson

Rating: 10/10

Review: Erik Larson’s “The Splendid and the Vile” brings to life one of the most challenging and heroic periods in history. The book focuses on Winston Churchill’s first year as Prime Minister, a time marked by relentless bombing raids by Nazi Germany during World War II. Larson’s storytelling makes history feel like a gripping novel.

Through diaries, letters, and documents, Larson paints a vivid picture of Churchill, his family and close friends, making the story feel personal and relatable. Larson does a fantastic job of showing Churchill’s larger-than-life personality and his extraordinary leadership.

This is a fantastic book that combines great storytelling with real history. I recommend it to anyone who considers themselves a history buff, or someone just looking for a good read! 

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3. George Washington Carver by Janet Benge

Rating: 10/10

Review: “George Washington Carver” is a captivating and inspiring biography that shares the remarkable story of one of America’s greatest scientists and inventor. (PEANUT BUTTER was one of his inventions) The book is filled with inspiring stories that highlight Carver’s curiosity, perseverance and kindness. It’s not just a tale of scientific achievement, but also a story of overcoming adversity through faith and hard work.

The book chronicles the life of George Washington Carver, from his humble beginnings as the son of enslaved parents, to his rise as a renowned agricultural scientist and inventor. The author writes about Carver’s struggles, his determination to get an education, and his groundbreaking work in agriculture, particularly his innovations with peanuts and crop rotation that revolutionized farming in the South.

I loved one story in particular: Carver encouraged local farmers to grow peanuts because it was easy to grow and would replenish their soil with needed nutrients. At harvest time, the farmers complained to Carver that they had TOO MANY peanuts and people weren’t buying them. Carver took a walk in the woods and prayed about this problem. He asked God for help. He needed to know what to do about the peanut problem. On this quiet walk through the woods, Carver felt God tell him to ‘break the peanut apart.’ He went back to his lab and got to work. In breaking the peanut apart, Carver found over 100 uses for the peanut! Let me say this again: with God’s help, Carver found over ONE HUNDRED ways to use a simple peanut. Isn’t that like our God? He’s so good and ready to INSPIRE and help us if we just ask. We may think we are at a DEAD END but with God guiding us, He can show us a hundred different paths to take! Now back to the review…

Despite facing significant obstacles, including racial discrimination and poverty, he remained dedicated to his goals and made substantial contributions to science and farming. His story is a powerful reminder that determination, faith, and a strong sense of purpose can lead to extraordinary achievements.

This book is an excellent read for anyone interested in history, science, or just an uplifting story about a fascinating man.

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4. Peace Like a River by Leif Enger

Rating 10/10

Review: After reading and enjoying, “I Cheerfully Refuse” by Leif Enger, I purchased this book to read and have the author sign at a recent event.

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This is a beautifully written, heartfelt novel that blends adventure, faith, and family into an unforgettable story. 

At its heart, “Peace Like a River” is about the power of family and faith. It explores how these forces can guide us through the darkest times and bring hope and healing. The Land family’s love for each other and belief in miracles, provide a touching and uplifting message. The characters are richly developed and relatable, each with their own quirks and strengths.

Leif Enger’s storytelling is powerful. I recommend this book to anyone who appreciates a touching and inspiring story.

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5. The Adventures of Robin Hood by John Burrows

Rating 8/10

Review: When author Leif Enger mentioned how much he loved “The Adventures of Robin Hood” as a young boy, I checked it out from the library to read to my two youngest sons. And just like Lief, they loved it.

The story follows Robin Hood, the outlaw who steals from the rich to give to the poor, along with his band of Merry Men. Set in Sherwood Forest, the book is filled with daring adventures, clever tricks, and the timeless battle between good and evil. I recommend this book for younger boys ages 8-14.

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Thanks for reading my reviews! Please share this post and/or leave a comment with YOUR recommendations!

Click here to discover the best 4 books I read last year.

These are affiliate links, which means if you click on one of them and choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra charge to you!

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Click here to read the reviews of the first 23 books I read in 2023.

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The other books I read this year:

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24. Benjamin Franklin by Janet Benge

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Rating: 10/10

Janet Benge writes amazing biographies. I hope to read every book she’s written because they are written like a movie. Benjamin Franklin was such an interesting man. He was a writer, printer, inventor, and politician. What I loved most about him was that he continually looked for ways to improve himself and the world around him – and was so creative in his approach!

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25. In Pieces by Sally Field

6/10

While Sally shines on the screen, her personal life is quite sad. Reading this book reinforces why I put the rule in place to read only books rated 4.0 and higher. This was rated less on goodreads and now I know why. Skip this one.

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26. Born Again by Charles Colson

Rating: 10/10

Review: After reading Katharine Graham’s book last year, I noticed she mentioned Chuck Colson in her book several times – and NOT in a positive light. It wasn’t the Chuck Colson I was familiar with. I was curious about his life and conversion. Once I started “Born Again,” I could not put it down. This book was outstanding. It shares how Colson was an attorney who worked for President Nixon. Colson wasn’t afraid to break the rules and lie ‘for the greater good.’ Those choices landed him in prison. Just before going to jail, he had an encounter with Jesus that changed his life. While serving time, he saw many gaps and failures in the prison system. From the time Chuck Colson was released from prison, he’s spent the rest of his life creating and running a ministry called “Prison Fellowship.” He fights for prison reform, for the families of prisoners, and teaches prisoners how to live a life differently than the one that led to incarceration. Nearly all the prisoners who go through the Prison Fellowship program never go back to jail, but go on to lead productive lives.

The book explores themes of redemption, faith, and the transformative power of a spiritual awakening in the midst of personal and public crises. It’s an excellent story and worth reading!

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27. Wooden by John Wooden

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Rating: 9/10

Review: With a house full of athletes, I decided to read this book by the great coach John Wooden. I was excited to read that he was from Indiana and was a teacher, just like me! This small book is packed full of life lessons and practical advice. I admire his work ethic and values-driven coaching and approach to life. I’d recommend this book to a high school or college athlete.

Here are some powerful quotes from the book:

• Parents often expect teacher and coaches to do what they are not doing at home. Parents must set the foundation of faith and values.
• Success is when you work hard to become the best version of you. Did I win? Wrong question. ‘Did I make my best effort?’ Success is a direct result of the self-satisfaction of knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.
• Learn from the past but don’t live in it.
• Individual praise can be dangerous. It was given for something done in the past and can take your mind off what you need to do in the present to prepare for the future. The harder you work, the more luck you have. 
• Valid self- analysis is crucial for improvement.
• Promise yourself you will talk health and happiness as often as possible.
• Promise yourself to tell your friends there is something special about them and you value you them.
• Wear a cheerful appearance at all times.
• My role is to help mold character, instill productive principles and values, and provide a positive example to those under my supervision. It’s a privilege to have that responsibility.
• Discipline is for correction not punishment.
• Focus your effort on what is in your power to control. 
• Education serves you throughout your whole life. Sports are temporary.
• Always try to be the best you can be. Learn from others, but don’t try to be better than them. You have no control over that. Be the best you can be.
• The best time to make friends is before you need them. 

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28. You are My Sunshine by Sean Dietrich

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Rating: 8/10

Review: A humorous memoir about the author and his wife and a bike adventure.

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29. She is Free by Aldi Andrew

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Rating: 8/10

Review: We say we’re free in Christ, but many of us are still living in captivity–to fear, anger, shame, isolation, unforgiveness, and control. We’re good at faking it around others, but we’re exhausted. Andi Andrew explores how to ‘break free’ in this book.

My favorite chapter was that on fear:

The truth about Fear – fear is the root of anxiety, control, manipulation, worry, anger, shame, insecurity, unbelief, addiction and people-pleasing. Fear is rooted in self preservation. When we doubt the goodness of God, we turn to ourselves for preservation and prosperity. Fear can make us physically sick. Fear is void of the love of God. Are you allowing fear to give you orders or are you silencing it at its first whisper?

Jesus and his words have authority over fear. What are you putting your faith in? Fear is actually faith in the wrong kingdom.

John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you. I don’t give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid, because I have overcome the world.”

We don’t go out of the house without wearing clothes. We shouldn’t go out of our house without wearing Christ. If we went out naked, we’d be assaulted by the weather and probably by the police. If we go out without being covered in Christ, we’re assaulted by negative thoughts, discouragement, and depression. Wrap yourself in the love of Christ.

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30. Paul Bland by Janet Benge

Rating: 10/10

Review: Discovering Paul Brand has been a delight! Although his name eluded me until now, I’m immensely grateful for the introduction through this book and his life!

Paul was born to English parents who were medical missionaries in India. He returned to England at the age of 9 and stayed until he’d finished school. During medical school, he crossed paths with Margaret, and their shared journey led them to become doctors, partners in marriage, and missionaries in India.

Paul’s pioneering work in performing surgeries on lepers, a group often shunned by many, showcases his exceptional dedication and care for the “least of these.” Rockefeller provided him a ‘scholarship’ to travel the world and learn from others – but as he traveled, other surgeons were learning from him and asking him to teach! What he was doing with lepers in India was groundbreaking. His expertise and knowledge even to benefited the diabetic community facing similar challenges.

Towards the twilight of his life, Paul collaborated with Philip Yancey to author several books, which I’ve now added to my ever-growing “to read” list!

What captivated me most was how Paul’s seemingly small acts of faithfulness rippled out to touch the lives of the world’s most vulnerable. His influence, beginning with those in dire need, gradually radiated to transform the entire medical community through his dedicated practice and groundbreaking research.

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31. Endurance by Alfred Lansing

Rating: 10/10

Review: A fascinating, hard-to-believe real life adventure story of a group of men who set out to explore Antarctica, until their ship becomes locked in ice and eventually goes under. They evacuate to an ice berg with three small boats and whatever materials they could get from the boat before it sank. This book shares the harrowing tail of how they all survived! This fantastic book I recommend for anyone 12 and up.

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32. Prevail by Susie Larson

Rating: 10/10

Review: This 365-page devotional is written chronologically through the Bible. I love the way Susie writes and gives interesting perspectives and insight into God’s world. I recommend this to anyone looking for a devotional!

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33. Oral Roberts Life Story

Rating: 9/10

Review: Because Oral Roberts University is on the list of colleges for George, I decided to read the founder’s life story. It was interesting and full of miracles that happened throughout Oral Robert’s life. Here’s one story from his younger years:

While Oral Robert’s dad was away working, his mom and siblings ran out of food and money. Their mom took them out for a walk and a neighbor invited them in for dinner. Mrs. Roberts declined the invitation because the woman was a widow and had very little. The boys said, “But mom, we are so hungry, why didn’t you say YES when our neighbor invited us to eat with her.” Their mom didn’t explain but replied that God would take care of them. She began thanking God in advance for what He would do. When they got home, there were bags of groceries waiting for them – a full ham, potatoes, and ingredients for fresh bread. That night, dinner never tasted so good as they realized that God had indeed taken care of them.

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34. Growing Up Ziglar by Julie Ziglar Norman

Rating 9/10

Review: This memoir, penned by Zig Ziglar’s daughter, defied my initial expectations. Instead of a narrative filled with ‘butterflies’ and ‘sunshine,’ the author candidly recounts a series of unfortunate decisions that brought considerable pain and heartache to both herself and her family. In the face of alcoholism and an impending divorce, she reached her breaking point and initiated transformative changes in her life. The author openly reflects on the profound impact that faith and honesty had on her journey toward health and restoration.

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35. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

Rating: 10/10

Review: This beloved children’s book revolves around the unruly Herdman children who decide to participate in the local Christmas pageant. The Herdman’s have little knowledge of the Christmas story and challenge the traditional narrative. “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is funny, endearing, and most importantly – reminds us of the reason we get to celebrate Christmas. I recommend it for all ages.

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36. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

Rating: 6/10

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37. It Begins with Us by Colleen Hoover

Rating: 6/10

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38. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste NG

Rating 8/10

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39. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

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Rating: 10/10

Review: This book was so good that it needs it’s own blog post!

Hurry kills relationships, joy, gratitude and appreciation. Wisdom is slow, it grows with time and reflection. There is zero correlation between hurry and productivity.  It takes practice to live with attention and awareness. I want to live a grateful life, full of appreciation, wonder and worship. I want to live with freedom and focus. I want to be present: to God, to people and to the moment. The gravitational pull towards hurry is overwhelming at times. Hence this book. Read it! It’s going on my ‘best books of the year’ list and I purchased one to give away. Stay tuned for the upcoming post!

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