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Review – Latest Spirituality Titles: 10 to Watch – Summer 2015
Here is a personal selection of my top ten ‘to watch’ Christian titles from the many hundreds published in the current sales period:
BLESSING
To ‘bless’ someone is spiritually powerful, but what does it actually signify? In this accessible paperback (part of the Faith Going Deeper series), Andrew Davison lays out a comprehensive framework covering the theology and practicalities of Blessing. Superb – I loved it – if with a rather unimaginative jacket!
DEEP CALLS TO DEEP – SPIRITUAL FORMATION IN THE HARD PLACES OF LIFE
Tony Horsfall is a past speaker at CRT, and an accomplished leader of spiritual retreats. This new book of reflections is based on the Jewish Psalms, and of particular help to anyone going through difficult times. It’s also a book for group use, with material and questions designed for this purpose.
DELIGHTED IN GOD: GEORGE MULLER
Roger Steer’s biography of Muller is a classic. Published again as part of CFP’s HistoryMakers series, this book recounts the amazing story of this Victorian Christian who built five large orphanages in Bristol, relying on the scriptural principle of faith to raise the necessary funds. A ‘must-read’.
THE GOOD SHEPHERD: A THOUSAND YEAR JOURNEY FROM PSALM 23 TO THE NEW TESTAMENT
Magisterial – the only word to describe Kenneth Bailey’s books. Now this very welcome addition. Bailey writes in a unique way looking at scripture through Middle Eastern eyes. He’s one of those few authors who, in whatever they write, are always worth reading. Simply wonderful. I loved it.
HILDA OF WHITBY – A SPIRITUALITY FOR NOW
The North Yorkshire fishing port of Whitby rates as one of my favourite UK places. I’ve long been fascinated by the haunting ruins of its vast cliff-top Abbey. Nearly 1400 years ago, St Hilda, a Celtic nun, established the northern centre of Christianity here. This is Hilda’s inspiring story, expertly told and a pleasure to read.
JESUS WITHOUT BORDERS
I enjoyed this book although it’s terribly American. However, that’s the point. This is a collection of travel stories as the author journeys from the USA Bible belt to a dozen different countries, looking at Church life and meeting with Christians. The chapter on his visit to England will make you smile!
POPE FRANCIS: THE AUTHORISED BIOGRAPHY
Jorge Bergoglio or Pope Francis has been in office for two years. The only authorised biography to date, this book fleshes out the man and his ministry in a series of revealing conversations. Written by two journalists, it provides a clear and comprehensive picture of this most unconventional of Popes.
THE THIRD TARGET
Written by a New York Times best-selling author, and in the style of Spooks and Homeland, this novel pushes all the buttons for a gripping read. Highly topical; ISIS, Al Qaeda, Israel, America and Syria are all in the story. There is not that much fiction on our shelves that appeals to men, but this is one such novel that can be recommended with confidence.
THE THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE MAN
2015 marks the 70th anniversary of TTTE. Who doesn’t love these stories and who cannot recite the names of most of the engines? Yet we know a lot less about Thomas’s creator, Reverend W Awdry. Here Brian Sibley, the best-selling biographer of C.S. Lewis, unlocks Awdry; train enthusiast, storyteller, family man, eccentric, pacifist and pastor.
WHERE IS GOD AT WORK?
Has the Church given the world of work short shrift over the years? This book explores the importance, indeed the imperative, of taking your faith to work with you. The author, an ordained C of E priest, is also a tax specialist in a major corporation. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities provided to Christians by their working environment. Innovative and practical.
| Metadata for these titles: | Author | ISBN |
| Blessing (Faith Going Deeper) | Andrew Davison | 978-1-84825-642-2 |
| Deep Calls to Deep | Tony Horsfall | 978-1-84101-731-0 |
| George Muller: Delighted in God | Roger Steer | 978-1-84550-120-4 |
| Hilda of Whitby: A Spirituality for Now | Ray Simpson | 978-1-84101-728-0 |
| Jesus without Borders | Chad Gibbs | 978-0-310-32554-3 |
| Pope Francis: The Authorised Biography | Rubin / Ambrogetti | 978-1-444-75251-9 |
| The Good Shepherd: from Psalm 23 to NT | Kenneth Bailey | 978-0-281-07350-4 |
| The Third Target | Joel C. Rosenberg | 978-1-4964-0531-9 |
| The Thomas the Tank Engine Man | Brian Sibley | 978-0-7459-7027-1 |
| Where is God at Work? | William Morris | 978-0-85721-628-1 |
This article was written in March for publication in Together Magazine (May to June 2015).
These titles can be purchased via any good Bookshop or from clcbookshops.com
Review – Latest Spirituality Titles: 10 to Watch – Spring 2015
Whoever said that Christian books are boring? Not so . … here is a personal selection of my ‘Ten to Note’ Christian titles from the many hundreds published in the current period:
40 Days, 40 Bites: A Family Guide to Pray for the World
Simply superb! If you missed this, you’ve missed a treat. This is Operation World Lite for all the family. Colourful and informative, a really outstanding package which deserves to do well. The maps, charts and prayer points enable adults and children to learn together whilst praying for the world.
Footsteps of Jesus: Pilgrim Traveller’s Guide to the Holy Land
Despite the perceived and sometimes real dangers, people still travel to Israel. I went there last year and I’m sure I would have benefited from this new BRF guide. The truth is that, alongside a Rough Guide and the Lonely Planet, you need to take a spiritual guidebook as well. This should be the one.
In God’s Hands – Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book 2015
At the heart of Archbishop’s Tutu’s faith is an unshakeable belief in the infinite value of every individual. This, coupled with his unwavering declaration of the love of God for everyone regardless of colour or faith, makes this paperback a profound reflection for the forthcoming season of Lent.
Love so Amazing: 40 Reflections on my Favourite Hymns
I love hymns. I collect books of hymn stories. Hymns are in danger of being lost to our culture. BBC TV’s ‘Songs of Praise’ has probably done more than most churches in keeping hymns alive in the national consciousness. Presenter Pam Rhodes selects her personal choices in this small hardback.
Miracles
Sub-titled, ‘What they are, why they happen and how they can change your life’. Is this rather hefty hardback the definitive work on the subject of Miracles? You must judge for yourself, but it comes with some weighty endorsements, and attempts to navigate the middle ground between the extremes of enthusiasm and scepticism.
The New Rules for Love, Sex and Dating
I heard Andy Stanley preach at his mega-church in Atlanta last year. He is the son of the better-known Charles Stanley. Above all, Andy Stanley came across as sensible, realistic and down-to-earth, with none of the usual trappings of American superstar preachers. This book deserves to do well.
On Rock or Sand: Firm Foundations for Britain’s Future
The Archbishop of York always seems such a joyful, solid character, and a far better role model for this country than so many of our politicians. In this book, John Sentamu edits various contributions looking at the essential values required to build a just, sustainable and compassionate society for the Britain of the future.
Presence and Encounter
I met David Benner at a counselling conference in Singapore. He had the most extraordinary impact on my life, introducing me to the constancy and beauty of God’s presence. I view that moment as a clear spiritual turning point. Anything written by Dr Benner is well worth reading – very slowly!
When God Breaks In
Yes, it’s the same Michael Green – back again with a fascinating book of how Christianity is thriving and growing around the world. For me, the interest lay in his chapter of how spiritual renewal came to Singapore. Sub-titled ‘Revival can happen again’, this is truly a faith-building and timely book.
The Wisdom House
Hodder Faith do produce attractive books. This title is elegantly packaged and makes a lovely gift. I enjoyed this book of ‘life-lessons’. As a grandparent, so much of what Rob Parsons writes resonated with me. This is vintage Parsons: thought provoking, faith-full and wise. This really is a significant book.
This article was written in November 2014 for publication in Together Magazine (January to February 2015).
These titles can be purchased via any good Bookshop or from clcbookshops.com.
| Bibliographic Metadata | ||||
| Title | Author | Publisher | ISBN | |
| 40 Days 40 Bites: A Family Guide to Pray for the World | Trudi Parkes | Christian Focus | 9781781914014 | |
| Footsteps of Jesus: Pilgrim Traveller’s Guide to the Holy Land | Perry Buck | BRF | 9780857463456 | |
| In God’s Hands (ABC Lent Book 2015) | Desmond Tutu | Bloomsbury | 9781472908377 | |
| Love so Amazing: 40 Reflections on my Favourite Hymns | Pam Rhodes | Lion Hudson | 9780857215703 | |
| Miracles | Eric Metaxas | Hodder Faith | 9781473604766 | |
| The New Rules for Love, Sex and Dating | Andy Stanley | Thomas Nelson | 9780310342199 | |
| On Rock or Sand: Firm Foundations for Britain’s Future | Editor: John Sentamu | SPCK | 9780281071746 | |
| Presence and Encounter | David Benner | Brazos Press | 9781587433610 | |
| When God Breaks In | Michael Green | Hodder Faith | 9781444787962 | |
| The Wisdom House | Rob Parsons | Hodder Faith | 9781444745665 |
Review – Latest Spirituality Titles: 10 to Watch – Autumn 2014
Here is a personal selection of my top ten ‘to watch’ Christian titles from the many hundreds published in the current sales period:
EAGER TO LOVE
Spirituality writer, Richard Rohr’s books are always eagerly awaited. In this new hardback, Rohr, himself a Franciscan friar, looks closely at ‘the alternative way’ of St Francis of Assisi, one of the Christian church’s most popular saints. All in all, this is an attractive package with a stunning cover.
GATECRASHING
A remarkable book and a content-rich ministry title from one of the UK’s newest publishers. Gatecrashing is the account of the ‘24-7 Prayer Ministry’ as it has developed on the non-stop party island of Ibiza. This book deserves to do very well and is well worth stocking in some depth.
GROWING UP SOCIAL
OK, so how long do you spend on a screen these days? For children, the statistics relating to screen time are astonishing. Gary Chapman (of 5 Love Languages fame) and Arlene Pellicane look at ways in which families can ‘remain relational’ despite the continuing impact of technology. A timely title.
HEART OF A LIONESS
A moving testimony of a life lived with ‘sacrifice, courage and relentless love’ among the children of Uganda. Irene Gleeson or ‘Mama Irene’ describes an incredible journey of faith which led eventually to Africa and to her work for justice and child advocacy. A strong cover; this should do very well.
JOURNALLING THE BIBLE
Spiritual Journalling is becoming increasingly popular. Corin Child, a Norfolk vicar and the vice-chair of ACW, demonstrates some creative ways to help engage with this spiritual discipline. It’s practical, easy-to-use and includes 40 ‘road-tested’ writing exercises. This surely is the type of book that cries out for effective hand-selling!
KILLING LIONS
There are not many books out there that appeal to younger men. Bestselling author, John Eldredge has teamed up with son, Samuel to explore what it means to be young and male in a western culture. Here is a series of meaningful conversations between a father and son. A fascinating topic.
PLAY THROUGH THE BIBLE
Hurrah – it’s the sequel to Bake through the Bible which I just loved! Here are stories and activities for 20 weeks of games, crafts and play with young children which explore the Gospel of Luke. Described as fun and messy, obviously just right for a grandparent to buy for a grandchild, I think!
RUNNING INTO NO MAN’S LAND
The well known World War 1 poet, Woodbine Willie was not a soldier, but an Anglican chaplain who won the Military Cross for bravery. This account of his life is beautifully written, each chapter is engaging and it deserves to reach out to a very wide audience. Thought-provoking and well timed.
SURPRISED BY SCRIPTURE
Not another Tom Wright, I hear you say! Described as ‘thoughtful and provocative’, here is a collection of sermons and talks that seek to show how Bible principles can be applied to pressing contemporary issues. It’s sure to sell well, so you’ll need to extend your shelf space yet again for Professor Wright!
VANISHING GRACE – WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE GOOD NEWS?
Journalist and popular writer, Philip Yancey asks why the church tends to so often stir up negative vibes in our society. Here he poses the question, ‘How is Christianity still relevant in a post-Christian culture’? Yancey is one of the best writers of our time, with his books already regarded as classics.
| Killing Lions | John & Sam Eldridge | Thomas Nelson | 9781400206704 |
| Eager to Love | Richard Rohr | Hodder Faith | 9781473604018 |
| Journalling the Bible | Corin Child | BRF | 9781841017365 |
| Surprised by Scripture | Tom Wright | SPCK | 9780281069859 |
| Running into No Man’s Land | Jonathan Brant | CWR | 9781782592655 |
| Vanishing Grace | Philip Yancey | Hodder Faith | 9781444789027 |
| Heart of a Lioness | Irene Gleeson | Authentic | 9781780780474 |
| Growing up Social | Gary Chapman | Moody Publishers | 9780802411235 |
| Gatecrashing | Brian Heasley | Muddy Pearl | 9781910012093 |
| Play through the Bible | Alice Buckley | Good Book Co. | 9781909559196 |
This article was written in August for publication in Together Magazine (September to October 2014).
These titles can be purchased via any good Bookshop or from clcbookshops.com.
Review – These 25 Books have shaped my spiritual life …
Over the years I have built up quite an extensive library. Occasionally I’m informed of a potential clear-out coming my way but the threat has yet to materialise! However, if I did have to select my top 25 titles, which books would be the most important for me to keep?
I’ve thought long and hard and here is that list – these are the books which have fed my soul, impressed my spirit and directed my life as opposed to simply informing my theology.
The main 10 – in order of priority
Celebration of Discipline Richard Foster Hodder
Return of the Prodigal Son Henri Nouwen DLT
The Wonder of Worship David McKee Faith Mission
Enjoying Intimacy with God Oswald Sanders Moody Press
Border Lands David Adam SPCK
In the Name of Jesus Henri Nouwen DLT
Awake my Heart J. Sidlow Baxter MMS
The Glory Man – Billy Bray Cyril Davey Hodder
An Unfading Vision Edward England Hodder
Literature Evangelism George Verwer Authentic
Those next in significance
Unlocking the Bible David Pawson HarperCollins
Dynamics of Spiritual Life Richard Lovelace Paternoster
Knowing God James Packer Hodder
The Church on the Way Jack Hayford Chosen Books
Wisdom Larry Lee Highland
The Life God Blesses Gordon MacDonald Word Books
Circle of Love Anne Persson BRF
Ruthless Trust Brennan Manning SPCK
A Glimpse of Jesus Brennan Manning SPCK
Soul Survivor Philip Yancey Hodder
Those too hard to leave out!
Finding Sanctuary Christopher Jamison Orion
Purpose Driven Life Rick Warren Zondervan
Walking the Edges David Adam SPCK
Epiphanies of the Ordinary Charlie Cleverley Hodder
Soulful Spirituality David Benner Baker
If you were hoping to find here a Guide to the 25 Essential Spiritual Classics, that book has already been written (25 Books Every Christian Should Read : Harper One : 2011) and is in itself highly recommended. It contains all the major Christian writers from past centuries and has been put together by a specially selected group of advisors by Renovare.
As a personal exercise, why not post here which books are important to you? What titles would your own list include?
Christian Book Trade – I remain fully persuaded …
After all these years, I remain fully persuaded of the potent impact of Christian writing and spiritual content, influencing lives for the better around the world. both in print and digitally.
The message of hope remains key. The delivery mechanism doesn’t really matter. In some parts of the world print remains dominant. In others, digital is in the ascendancy.
The outcome for the Gospel is what’s important, which is why content is key.
One of the keys to this ministry that we have not always recognised is the work of the Holy Spirit in using content to supernaturally touch people’s lives.
I am more aware than ever now of that aspect of our work. It is God who does the work, not us – although He is pleased to use us too.
‘These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name’. The Gospel of John 20:30
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