There are some books that give you new insight every time you read it, and here are 10 books that do just that for us! Whether you’re looking for inspiration, life lessons, or a relaxing holiday read, we’ve got you covered!
1. The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis
When God thinks of us, He thinks of us with love. When the devil thinks of us, he thinks of… what? Through the imagination of C.S. Lewis, we get a glimpse of how the devil works. Through imagined letters that a senior demon writes to a junior demon on how to corrupt and tempt a man, The Screwtape Letters encourages us to recognise how hard the devil has been working to do what he does best: kill, steal, and destroy.
2. Chasing the Dragon by Andrew Quickie and Jackie Pullinger
In 1966, Jackie Pullinger boarded a boat from England with no money and no plan, but was filled with faith that God would tell her where to get off and start sharing the gospel. This classic about her work in the Kowloon Walled City — a lawless labyrinth of haphazardly built buildings in Hong Kong where crime was rife — is sure to inspire you to take courage in unabashed obedience to Jesus. Fun fact, she still lives and serves in Hong Kong!
3. What Is A Girl Worth? My Story of Breaking the Silence and Exposing the Truth about Larry Nassar and USA Gymnastics by Rachael Denhollander
Immediately after finishing the book, Kallos writer Hannah dropped a friend a text and said, “I’m shaking.” In spite of her personal trauma and the frustrations of bringing Larry Nassar to justice, Denhollander’s grit and grace is unmistakable. While the fight against injustice is often fueled by bitter revenge, she is motivated by love — for the victims and all the young gymnasts that could suffer in the same way — and this makes her story both refreshing and empowering.
4. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
The most sobering reflections seem to come in the face of the threat of death. When Dr. Paul Kalanithi was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, he began thinking deeply about what a meaningful life looks like. You may not be facing death currently, but in thinking about death, it may inspire you on how to live life to the fullest.
5. The Scars That Have Shaped Me: How God Meets Us In Our Suffering by Vaneetha Rendall Risner
We always hear people talk about overcoming suffering, but very rarely do we hear someone talk about enduring it. Risner’s story is heartbreaking — she contracted polio at a young age, went through multiple miscarriages, lost her infant son, and her first husband left the family. Yet, in the face of great adversity, she learnt an invaluable lesson — how to taste the goodness of God even in suffering. Read her story to find out how her suffering not only boosted her faith in God, but cemented her hope in Him.
6. You and Me Forever by Francis and Lisa Chan
One of the best pieces of relationship advice that we can give is this: Don’t wait till you’re attached to figure out what a godly relationship should look like. Dive into Scripture with the Chans and let this book guide and shape your ideas about romance. Be prepared; it is going to look quite different from what we’re used to seeing on the big screen!
7. Unseen: The Gift of Being Hidden in a World that Loves To Be Noticed by Sara Hagerty
The title says it all. In a world that loves to be noticed, have we forgotten the preciousness of desiring the praise of God above the praises of man? When the things we do seem unnoticed, are we still willing to do them in service to Jesus? Laugh and learn with Hagerty through her stories of learning to see the beauty of a life hidden in God.
8. Mentoring Paradigms by Edmund Chan
If you’re in a position of leadership, this book is for you! In chapters no longer than four pages, Pastor Edmund Chan provides helpful ways to think about how to mentor, lead, and disciple those under your care. With such short and punchy lessons, no one can say that they are too busy to pick this up!
9. Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers
This bestselling series of novellas is Rivers’ way of putting herself in the shoes of the unlikely women in Jesus’ family tree. Immerse yourself in the worlds of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. We assure you that you will see their stories in a light you never have before!
10. Katie Weldon series by Robin Jones Gunn
Gunn’s unique writing style guarantees that even though you will never be able to meet the fictional Katie Weldon, she will feel like a friend you’ve gone through life with. Join Katie as she navigates college life, finds love and loses it, and has an unexpected African adventure… You will laugh at the mishaps she gets into, cry with her in her heartache, and savour the lessons of faith she picks up amidst the challenges of school, friendship, and romance. Available on www.kallos.com.sg!
