From Pastor Judith Cooke
Ah summertime…that glorious season when the days are longer, people feast from their gardens, and our burdens seem a little bit lighter. For children,
class may not be in session, but the schools often require summer reading. There are plenty of reasons that reading is beneficial – reading exercises our
minds, increases our vocabularies, teaches new things. While it is imperative
for children to read each day (even during school vacation), it is also important for adults to read. With summer right around the corner, this is a wonderful time to put together our summer reading list. While clergy tend to promote reading the Bible (which I do), there are plenty of inspiring
reading options as well. If you are wondering what books to peruse this summer,
here are a few of my suggestions.
The book market currently
has an abundance of memoirs. Two of my favorites are
Dancing with Granny by Frankye
Regis ~ This is the story of an African American girl growing up in the south. It is eye opening, heartwarming, and inspiring.
The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls ~ This story chronicles the
upbringing of Jeannette at the hands of her eccentric and nomadic
parents who lived by whim and paranoia. Against the odds, she creates a successful life for herself.
If you are a lover of
novels, may I suggest
Ellen Foster by Kaye Gibbons ~ After enduring an alcoholic
father and then the death of her parents, eleven year old Ellen, who
is an old soul, creates a new life for herself.
The Life All Around Me by
Ellen Foster by Kay Gibbons ~ This sequel picks up Ellen’s life at age fifteen.
The Teahouse Fire by Ellis
Avery ~ Set in the 1800’s when the western culture was beginning to affect Japanese customs and society, young Aurelia finds herself alone in Kyoto where she is taken in by a family of master teachers of the tea ceremony.
A great book to read and discuss with your child is
Www.Here-I-Am by Russell Stannard ~ While exploring the internet, Sam finds God’s website.
As Sam and God enter into
conversation, they explore thought provoking
issues of faith that affect youth.
If you are one of those readers who prefer a heavier book, may I suggest
No god but God: The Origins,
Evolution, and Future of Islam by Reza Aslan ~ Learn about Islam – from its history to its present conflicts around the world – in what my husband Jay says is “the most important book I’ve read.”
God has created a diverse, inspiring, amazing world, and God has blessed many authors with the ability to convey the glories of life. This summer,
I encourage you to delight in a good book.
