“You’ll be the same person you were last year except for the books you read and the people you meet.”
Books have had a profound impact upon me since I first began reading many years ago. They’ve helped to shape the way I think and the way I live. They stimulate me intellectually; they challenge me to improve as a person; and they teach me new concepts and ideas.
I set a goal at the beginning of 2009 to read 50 books over the course of the year. I didn’t quite reach that goal, in fact, I only ended up reading 26 books in total. However, aiming high motivated me to find the time to read more than I likely would have had I not set that goal in the first place.
In 2010, I’ve committed to attempt to read 4 books per month–a book which encourages me spiritually, a practical book (on homemaking or homeschooling), a business-related book, and another book of my choice.
I’ll be joining in with FishMama’s Bookin’ It Challenge and posting an monthly update with the books I’ve read and a short review on each of them. This is not only for my own personal accountability, but I hope it also serves to inspire you to consider making time in your life to read. You just might be surprised at how much you learn and change as a result of reading!
Here’s my list of books I’m hoping to read this next year:
(Please note: My list is rather audacious and I don’t necessarily think I’ll actually find the time to read all of these in 2010, but I’m at least going to try! My husband and I are also reading through the Bible in a year using The MacArthur Daily Bible.)
January
Bootcamp for Lousy Housekeepers
Flipping the Switch…: Unleash the Power of Personal Accountability Using the QBQ!
Still Growing: An Autobiography
Treasuring God in Our Traditions
What He Must Be: …If He Wants to Marry My Daughter
First Things First: The Rules of Being a Warner
March
America’s Cheapest Family Gets You Right on the Money
Six Pixels of Separation: Everyone Is Connected. Connect Your Business to Everyone.
April
Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation
Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day: The Discovery That Revolutionizes Home Baking
May
Put More Cash in Your Pocket: Turn What You Know into Dough
Womanly Dominion: More Than A Gentle and Quiet Spirit
Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor: The Life and Reflections of Tom Carson
June
Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap… and Others Don’t
The Coupon Mom’s Guide to Cutting Your Grocery Bills in Half
Calm My Anxious Heart: A Woman’s Guide to Finding Contentment
Beloved Bride: The Letters of Stonewall Jackson to His Wife
For the Family’s Sake: The Value of Home in Everyone’s Life
July
Frugillionaire: 500 Fabulous Ways to Live Richly and Save a Fortune
In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms
Creating an Intimate Marriage: Rekindle Romance Through Affection, Warmth and Encouragement
August
Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity
Michael Phelps: The Untold Story of a Champion
The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate
Professionalizing Motherhood: Encouraging, Educating, and Equipping Mothers At Home
September
The Financially Confident Woman
October
Living Rich for Less: Create the Lifestyle You Want by Giving, Saving, and Spending Smart
Created for Work: Practical Insights for Young Men
Francis Schaeffer: An Authentic Life
November
The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play
Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee
A Mother’s Heart: A Look at Values, Vision, and Character for the Christian Mother
December
Living Simply: Choosing Less in a World of More
My biggest problem when it comes to reading books is actually finishing them. I’m really good at starting books–and often have 4 to 6 started at once!–but I’m much less disciplined about finishing them.
I’m going to aim to only start and finish each month’s designated books during the specified month. If I finish them all early, I’m giving myself license to read whatever–but not until I’ve finished that month’s books. Yes, I’m really working on following through with things I’ve set out to do this year. 🙂
Photo credit: Yves
Marie says
On the other hand, the reason i became an avid daily reader of your blog was because of the free book links (you always have the best that i can’t find through any other book link with amazon, etc . . .). The books you list are worthy reads and the reviews are accurate so i don’t accidentally read junk (and since i hate having read a book that is full of what i refer to as female porno (love scenes without real love since they’re all out of wedlock). You always have and read the best books, even when i have to pay for them so i’ve referred you at least twice daily for the last few years. Thank you so much!
Kellie at The Link says
Great list Crystal! I’m adding a few to my list- thanks. In the spirit of reading, on my blog we are having a give-a-way for a 3 hand painted sand dollar watercolor Book Marks. Post a comment about what family or money saving book you are planning to read this year for a chance to win.
Jenn @ Beautiful Calling says
Oh, great list! I joined in and wrote one too but much less ambitious 🙂
And I wanted to say that I too have trouble finishing books sometimes. A busy time comes along, the book gets set to the side and I have trouble getting back to it. Let’s finish some books this year!!
Kathy Temples says
Have you tried the audio books from the library? They are really great because you can listen while you clean house, cook and do laundry.
traci says
Wow, you are so ambitious! I think I’ll shoot for one book a month. I just ordered two off of your list that looked like something I’d be interested in. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Margaret says
You have definitely inspired me! In fact, I’m thinking about starting a book wish list on the same place I’m registered for my upcoming weddng, myregistry.com. My fiance and I keep hearing about that 5 love languages book, so that will be the first one I put on my wishlist. Thanks for all of the ideas!
Samantha R says
Good job for reading at least half your goal last year. I think I made it to there too; about half my goal of 50 😉
This year, I haven’t set a goal, persay, just certain books I should/want/have to read this year 🙂
I think you will really enjoy : “Calm My Anxious Heart: A Woman’s Guide to Finding Contentment”
I read this last year and it really helped me to think about things in a different way. It helped me learn to trust God more. It was a real eye-opener for me!
I can’t wait to see what you think of all the books you plan to read.
I love reading reviews on books!
And you’ve mentioned some titles that look intrigueing to me; some I may have to read myself.
Samantha R says
Good job for reading at least half your goal last year. I think I made it to there too; about half my goal of 50 😉
This year, I haven’t set a goal, persay, just certain books I should/want/have to read this year 🙂
I think you will really enjoy : “Calm My Anxious Heart: A Woman’s Guide to Finding Contentment”
I read this last year and it really helped me to think about things in a different way. It helped me learn to trust God more. It was a real eye-opener for me!
I can’t wait to see what you think of all the books you plan to read.
I love reading reviews on books!
And you’ve mentioned some titles that look intrigueing to me; some I may have to read myself.
Laura says
This is not meant as a criticism in any way, but in almost every month, you have a book slated on how to save, do more with less, practice simplicity, etc etc…
You are a paragon of frugality, you could write these books yourself. Why in the world would you spend so much of your time looking for ways to improve on what you have already mastered? Isn’t there a “good enough” when it comes to squeezing the pennies out of every dollar? You have achieved some mighty goals. You should reward yourself by cultivating other aspects of a good life.
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Money Saving Mom here: Laura, one of the biggest things I’ve learned, is that I can never stop learning. I constantly am seeking to grow, improve, and be re-inspired. Reading books on money stretches me, inspires me, and re-energizes me as far as our finances go! I know beyond any shadow of a doubt that one of the reasons we are where we are financially is because of the wonderful books we’ve read and people we meet. I don’t ever want to stop learning from people and books!
Michelle says
I saw the bootcamp book on your list and HAD to pick it up. I am about half way done now and there are lots of good tips. I think that I am going to have to read it twice to catch it all.
I second the comment about Good to Great. I struggled to get through it last year. Just a warning, much of the information was relevant about 10 years ago, but with the changing economy, many of the “great” companies have filed bankruptcy.
Oh, how times have changed.
Mychele says
What a great idea! I’m going to put together my list today. I think this will really help to keep me on track for reading more and staying focused throughout the year. Way too many on my night stand right now! Happy reading!
Jennifer says
Wow, that’s an ambitious list! When do you find time to read? I think I read 3-4 books last YEAR! (It might help f I would get off the computer at night and get in bed with a book instead.)
“Eats, Shoots, and Leaves” and “The Elements of Style” are on our bookshelf as well; I think I’ve read the former. We are grammar geeks at our house. Have you heard of “The Elephants of Style”? It’s a grammar guide written with a funny, entertaining twist.
Thanks for posting your list; I think I’ll bookmark this post so I can find some new books when the time is right.
Saving Her Life says
April contains two of my favorite books: The Complete Tightwad Gazette and Eats, Shoots & Leaves. And I just checked out The Five Love Languages from our library. I love books!
Tracy says
I would seriously like to know when you find the time to read.
Dana @ Mrs. Moneysaver says
The Five Love Languages is a great book. I read it years ago, and still think of it at least (and try to apply it!) a few times a week.
Emma K says
I love reading but mostly stick to fiction but am going to try to read some nonfiction this year as well.
If you are looking for Christian fiction books. I LOVE Karen Kingsbury’s books. All of her books are just wonderful, realistic books about real people who might make mistakes or life might not be going as they had planned but they still trust in God. I recommend her books to everyone. The Redemption series is a great series to start with.
amymewzzell says
I loved Calm My Anxious Heart, and I don’t think it’s only appropriate for women, FYI. I also loved the Five Love Languages. It would be a great one to keep around an re-read every so often. It really helps out – no matter what stage you’re in! Please update with what you think about each one. The list sounds intriguing!
Bonnie says
For those of you who are also inspired to read the Bible in its entirety this year, here is a great resource.
http://www.ewordtoday.com/year
They have many different translations to choose from and ways to read it in one year (i.e. Gen to Rev, chronologically, etc…) It’s nice to do it online and it is pretty cool to see the days reading dim once you do it, a sense of accomplishment I suppose.
Although, I have been reading the Bible for many years now, I have never read the whole thing purposefully. My mother inspired me by reminding me of how many books I have read, but probably not the most important one in its entirety. Something to think about!
Lee says
Great list, I am taking a few books to add to my list myself. With my baby due anyday I set my goal light this year at 4 fictional works and 4 non fiction works. But I had not made a list yet.
Anne says
Crystal – Read Artisan Bread in five minutes in January (along with its follow up – Healthy Bread in five minutes) These bread baking methods will save you time all year long, giving you plenty more time to do that reading you’ve planned.
As someone who also mills flour – the healthy bread book has whole wheat recipes – that really save you time!
Jessica says
I know you have had a lot of book recommendations already, but I thought I would throw in one of my favorites – it’s called Husbands and Wives and is compiled by William J Petersen. It is a collection of accounts of the marriages of “famous” Christians from the past – Johann Sebastian Bach, Jonathan Edwards, C.S. Lewis, Charles Spurgeon, etc.
The book focuses on the marriage relationship – the good and the bad within the couple and truly shows God’s grace to individuals.
I also like that, although it is not inclusive of the individuals life work, you do get an idea of each individuals life work and when you finish reading this average size book you walk away having read about 19 couples.
Each chapter focuses on one couple, so it is easy to pick up and read one or two stories at a time and then put the book away.
I am reading it again for the third time in our 5 year marriage – I truly enjoy it. I haven’t blogged about it before, but will once I finish it this time around.
Sheila Doherty says
Crystal, I read 86 books in 2009 (I kept a list) — each book over 300 pages each, several as many as 800 pages. All of mine were fiction, but I am definitely what you would call an “avid reader.” But I am completely the opposite of you as I rarely read non-fiction. I start many, but I just don’t finish them! I get bored. LOL
Melissa says
I like the way you are structuring your list (one for spiritual encouragement, one for home, etc). I have a very long list of books I want to read, and I really like this approach!
Kristin says
This is an intriguing list! I’d love to be this ambitious, but I have not found the time to read besides a few minutes each night before falling asleep. I am in a similar stage of life, homeschooling a 5 year old, somewhat homeschooling a 4 year old, and nursing an 11 month old, all staying at home. Could you post your daily schedule to give me some ideas of possibly how to better manage my time? I could definitely use some help to find more reading moments! Thanks!
Lisa says
Somehow, I doubt you really need the first one (Bootcamp for Lousy Housekeepers), but I am SO glad you posted it. I’m losing my luster for folding the laundry. But, praying oh so much to find the love!
Katey says
This is such an inspiration! Thank you!
Jaclynn says
You have some great books on your list!
Calm My Anxious Heart: A Woman’s Guide to Finding Contentment is a book that I loved and hope you will too!
Christina P says
How did you decide what to read? Is it whatever comes to you from others or do you go by a popular book list? Have you found a site that has you note what you like and it pulls recommendations you may like based on that?
Patti says
Great list and great idea… but like the others,I hope the list doesn’t overwhelm you. The greatest thing about reading is when you don’t have to do it, it is such a joy and when you have to do it, it is such a job (remember what it was like to read when you were in school?). Just keep yourself open to all the possibilities out there and use your list to know what book you want to reach for next.
Sherry Smothermon-Short says
Getting Things Done is fabulous! I was fortunate to take a class based on this book when I still worked, and I really had a paradigm shift in my thinking after that. I agree with the other person who suggested you move it up in your list. It really will help you throughout the rest of the year.
Good to Great isn’t that great! : )
Eats Shoots and Leaves is hilarious!
Karisa says
Here a post on how I manage to read MANY books each month: http://mujerradiante.com/?p=346 It’s in SPANISH (you can read it in english with Google’s translator).
Thanks for sharing your list Crystal!! (I have written down many titles =)
Cindy says
That’s so encouraging to see your goal of reading. I also enjoy reading and the past 3yrs now, my goal was to read 24 books – 2 a month and I’ve made it. I’m impressed that you planned out each book to read already too! yes, you’ll enjoy the Five Love Languages and if you get a chance, read the Five Love Languages for Kids too. A good one!
I wanted to thank you too for the time you’ve put into blogging, sharing secrets, recipes and money saving ideas. I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for about a year now. Next week, my husband and two little girls are moving to Asia as missionaries. I know I’ll check your blog periodically, but not much since I won’t be able to cut coupons and do some of those deals. =) Its been fun and I’ve enjoyed it though. Blessings!
Challice says
I just keep on going dont I?
Professionalizing Motherhood: Encouraging, Educating, and Equipping Mothers At Home
I have that one. SItting on my shelf to read.
Beloved Bride: The Letters of Stonewall Jackson to His Wife
one of my all time favorites
Challice says
Money Saving Mom-
Plug for my mom, You might like Noble Pursuits by Chautona Havig. Not your average story. Most people I know who do not enjoy fiction book have really enjoyed hers. They mainly read it because she was their friend and then begged for more. LOL. 🙂 She is self-published by I know Amazon and Barns and Noble have her books. 😀
Challice says
WOOT! Heidi (author of bootcamp for lousy housekeepers) is my friend. You’ll love this book! Its so challenging, especially for me.
Deborah says
Well, if you really want to read some great fiction christian books read anything that Karen Kingsbury has written. She is wonderful. Her 911 series was one of the best I have read. I have not read a book of hers that isn’t good.
Becky L says
In response to an earlier question/comment, the quote at the beginning of the post is generally credited to Charlie “Tremendous” Jones. You’ve got some great books on the list and some I’d like to read. I also highly recommend God’s Greatest Passion (by H.L. Hussmann) — it’s an equipping and motivating read for those who want to share their faith in Christ but feel afraid or unsure how. It’s a life-changing book. I saw the comment about fiction. I just read A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens) a couple years ago and really feel like I gained from having read it. Great story of redemption.
Deborah says
That sounds like a great idea. I love to read and I’m always looking for good books to read. I’m looking forward to seeing your results. I’ll try and join you.
Deborah
jessi says
have you used goodreads.com before? LOVE IT! great way to track books and share what you’ve read with friends!
here’s my link http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1335448
Jan says
I recommend anything by Rabbi Harold Kushner … “When Children Ask About God” is excellent, as is his meditation on the 23rd Psalm. He’s most well-known for his book “When Bad Things Happen to Good People.” I heard him speak some years ago, and he’s as erudite in person as on the page.
One fiction book I keep going back to is Helen Hooven Santmyer’s “… And Ladies of the Club.” It’s a doorstop, but an engaging read. Same for “The Source,” by James Michener, which is all about Israel and Palestine.
Heather says
Great list, but you gotta get some great fiction!
Try Chronicles of Narnia! Christian, very well-written, inspiring, AND GREAT FUN!
Anne of Green Gables
Blue Shoes and Happiness
Cheaper by the Dozen
Little Women
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom
marybeth at www.babygoodbuys.com says
I have a simple philosophy on books (and finishing them!): If I’m not getting what I want out of a book, I allow myself to stop reading it. Plain and simple. Our libraries are full of books just waiting for me to read them. I’m sad that I won’t be able to get through them all in a lifetime, so why waste my time on a book I’m not enjoying?
Then again, I also don’t want you to beat yourself up if you feel like it’s a self-discipline issue 🙂 We all do what works for us!
Thanks for the tip on the Bookin’ It link. It looks like tons of fun!
Babs says
Thank you for this post. I love hearing about good books. I also look forward to reading the comments that will surely follow for even more suggestions!
Samantha says
Parenting in the Pew is a fabulous choice! I have read it, used it with my kids, and taught it as a class in our church. It is a MUST READ, imho! When I first read it, our first child was a toddler and we were just starting out teaching him to be in church. A lot of the families in our church didn’t bring young children into the service because they were afraid of noise or distraction, etc. Many of the ones who did, sat in the back and occupied their children with coloring books, toys, etc. A group of us read this book together and begain to sit at the very front with our young children, teaching them to really participate in the service. It was so nice to have the support of other parents who were doing the same thing and it was a huge success! The whole church took notice and there are many more children in the services now and more young families in the church as a whole. I love this book! 🙂
Jill says
I have a question for you – why no fiction? Do you think it is unprofitable? I love to read as well – as a mother and writer myself I find reading GOOD fiction (classics as well as newer authors) keeps my imagination and creativity going. So I’m curious if this is a personal preference of non-fiction?
**************
Money Saving Mom here: I rarely read fiction. I’ve tried to read a few classics and most of them were just very boring to me. Every once in awhile, I’ll find a fiction book which engages me, but most often they just don’t interest me. But if you have some really great recommendations of good fiction I should read, shoot me an email and I’ll definitely consider it!
Amber Howard-McGinnis says
I have loved to read since I was a little girl. My favorite books were the Anne Of Green Gables series! But finding time as an adult with 3 kids is hard. Thank you for sharing your list–I enjoy books that help me be a better mom and you just saved me a whole bunch of time compiling that list–Thanks, again! : )
Becky S. says
What a great book list! I have read Still Growing: An Autobiography and could not put it down. I know you will enjoy that one. I was also excited to meet the author in person and he signed my book 🙂
Julie says
Yea! Soo many of the books you have listed are my favories. I recently finished “Parenting in the Pew”….a great one! Enjoy!
Pam says
I also agree that reading has a huge impact on us. I was wondering if some time you could do a post on maybe the “Top Ten” books that changed your life. I know that DR’s Total Money Makeover would be on it, but what else?
Martha Artyomenko says
Great list!!! I read a variety of books and I review books on my blog so I get alot of books mailed to me….but do a variety of fiction and non-fiction, all Christian, but interesting! I never really thought about writing down some of the cookbooks I read! = )
I usually read an average of a book a day though, and I think that is pretty good to stick to! That is an average of 365 books a year then…..
Last year a couple of books that really changed me were Only Nuns change habits overnight and So long, Status Quo by Susy Flory. Those might be ones you might like!
Hope you achieve your goal!!
jody says
If the “How I Know God Answers Prayer” book is the one by Mrs. GoForth – it is definitely worth reading – and it is short. 🙂
Colleen Coberley says
Eats, Shoots & Leaves has been on my mind for a few years now. I remember seeing the cover and laughing (I think it’s a panda with a bamboo stalk and a rifle?) Punctuation and grammar are enough to give me OCD.
Also, you are an amazing candidate for a Kindle, Crystal!
I’ve been inspired to start reading more and TV less. Dr Sears Baby Book is always on my nightstand, with about 6 other books, some of which I have never touched. Time to crack some spines! 🙂
Kimberly says
You will love The 5 Love Languages. Dr. Gary Chapman is the associate pastor at the church I used to attend. I’ve heard him preach many times and have several of his books. You might also like the 5 love languages for children, as the other one is geared mostly for spouses. I have the one for children and have read it several times. I’ll be glad when my two year old begins to show his language to me!
Rebecca says
What a great post! I love to read too and so many of these books I have not heard of but have been wanting to read more Christian books too. Ellen gave good advice – one that I really need to follow.
Annette says
Wow, that’s a lot of reading. I love to read but rarely take the time for it now with 4 kids and homeschooling but so many of those books sound fantastic, I should make more time for reading. On a side note, my husband loves to write and has started a new blog, http://www.thenovelblogger.blogspot.com, it’s an interactive novel with the readers helping to give suggestions to guide the next chapter. We would love to spread knowledge about the blog, I was wondering if you would offer it as a free reading opportunity to your readers. We are a Christian family and there will never be offensive content in the story, plus the main character will be ultimately on his own spiritual search for God in the book. Thanks so much for your blog, I am a fairly recent reader and was unaware of how much money I could save. We hope to become debt free like you as well.
Kacie says
Oh, I just love reading!
I’ve read several books on your list and I hope you enjoy them.
I’m starting something new for myself this year. I’m keeping a list of all the books I read, skimmed, or want to read at some point in the future.
After I read or skimmed a book, I’ll add a few comments, like “this would be worth buying” or “recommend to this person” or a quick summary of the book.
The running list includes where I can find the book, such as if it’s available at my library or on PBS.
Happy reading!
Crystal says
I like it! Reading is such a great thing to do for yourself – and it forces you to take a breather. I’m an avid reader, myself – though I don’t have the attention span to read more than once at a time =)
I’m saving this list for when I’m in a need of a new book – Thanks for the info and inspiration (as always)
Faiza says
I just finished my first book in years. It is Stones Into Schools by Greg Mortenson. I love it!!! Also just purchased Three Cups of Tea by the same author and am going to finish it in a few days I am sure. I just love these two books and would highly recommend them for anyone.
jennifer says
You had some great suggestions that I added to my book list, thanks!
May says
I would highly recommend moving Getting Things Done into an earlier list. It is fabulous, and is likely to make the rest of your year go by so much more effectively and efficiently.
kathi says
When I read your title I thought of the Pizza Hut Book-it program. Are you aware that homeschoolers can participate? The kids can meet the goals you set for them and get either a free personal pan pizza or free lunch buffet. Great way to save on lunch out on a hs field trip day.
Leslie Bard says
I would like to follow your reading and comments on the books…I find that having all the info in one source keeps things easier for me….can you facebook it like your coupons and sales info??? That would be a great help!!
Jana at The Homeschool Jungle says
One more book suggestion…
Red Letter Christians- A citizens guide to faith and politics by Tony Campolo.
I heard him speak when I was 19-he made me so mad. He said make a lot of money but live on 20,000 a year and give the rest away.
He challenges the “American dream” and how that lines up with the bible. Truly a thought provoking book.
Kathy says
I am currently reading A Mother’s Heart, so good! I felt like with the new year I needed renewed visoin in this area. I want to have a goal to read and finish one book a month. Also on the list is Don’t Make Me Count to Three, The Complete Money Makeover, and Each for the Other (Bryan Chapell). Another book by Elizabeth Prentiss is Aunt Jane’s Heros (it is awesome!) Thanks for the post. It has encouraged me to get these down on paper so I can keep up with where I am!
Lillie says
Thanks for the list! I love the John Miller books and “Good to Great” will give you some food for thought, but it’s a hard book to stay motivated and finish.
Roxanne says
I too only read non-fiction, but I never feel bad about not finishing a book.
There are way more great books out there than I’ll ever have a chance to read. If I read half a book, gleaned some nuggets of truth, then moved onto something else, it’s ok.
Some books I finish, some I don’t. But I’m still learning, and that’s what counts to me.
Eleanor says
The Five Love Languages is a really great book!
heather says
I have read the America’s Cheapest Family book and the Tightwad Gazette. Both are excellent! I look forward to reading your reviews. Your list looks interesting.
CC says
thank you for this great list! The funny thing is that my goal for last year was 50, and I also read 26! We’re 2 peas in a pod. 🙂
Kim says
I was wondering if you buy all of these books or do you get them at the library?
I was’nt sure if you knew of any “cheaper” ways to purchase books.
thanks
Also, maybe you should write your own book on money saving, as you have helped so many with your blog:)
Katie says
Curious – Are you going to buy these or get them from the library?
Thanks for the great list. I didn’t know Elizabeth Prentiss wrote other books besides Stepping Heavenward. I just ordered a few of hers because of this post. Thanks!
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Money Saving Mom here: Believe it or not, I actually have all of these books already on my “to read” shelf! Some of them were given to me as gifts, many of them came from PaperBackSwap, and a few were sent to me as review copies (I receive books from publishing houses on occasion since I’m a blogger.) Most of these you should be able to pick up from the library or PaperBackSwap.
Rebekah says
Sounds like a great list. I have read a few of those myself, but I may have to borrow your list and read the rest. Thanks for posting this!
Ellen says
I am a mom with 9 kids, most of them adults now. We homeschooled, baked bread, had (still have) a business at home and I love to read. PLEASE, PLEASE be careful that you do not set so many goals that you put yourself under undue pressure. God has already given you 4 goals– husband and children. Having children, especially small children, is very high pressure all by itself, especially if you add homeschooling and self employment. It is easy to become cranky and ill when you overdo it. If you have husband or family members warning about overdoing it, LISTEN TO THEM!! You need to enjoy a leisurely time while your children are small so you can just love on them and on your husband. I love your site and read it almost every day but please don’t stress yourself– you’re too important!!!
dirksgirl says
Our Homeschool Mom’s Group took a break from homeschool book discussions and did Treasuring God in Our Traditons. It is lovely.
For the Children’s Sake will change you, as a mother, for the better.
The Five Love Languages is written by a wonderful, godly man. Im so thankful we read through that book right before we got married, 15 1/2 years ago!
Deana S Wood says
Oh that bootcamp book! I need that one! I tried to flylady, but the emails overwhelmed me. I have eBay inventory everywhere, it just seems to multiply! Packaging supplies, boxes, stuff waiting to be listed, things waiting for payment – you get the idea. It is fun to sell on eBay but it does make a mess.
Chantel says
I love this idea of breaking it down into monthly goals! I also am hosting a book challenge again this year (i’ve done it for a couple years now) to encourage young ladies to read more substantial things and less fluff, to read to learn and find enjoyment in growth so that reading the lighter stuff is more of a treat than all that happens. If I’d known of this before I started, I might have just directed them all there instead.
Happy reading!
Rhonda says
If your problem is finishing books, maybe move-up or better yet, start with The Now Habit!!! lol Just teasing ya! I do the same thing. I think I’ll call the library now to see if they can get me The Now Habit. Great list….thanks for sharing!
Milk Donor Mama says
I read about 200 books (more if you count cook books and craft pattern books) per year, all non-fiction. I’m currently reading the Complete Tightwad Gazette and Radical Simplicity, along with Simplify Your Christmas. My 3yo DD loves reading, and my husband reads as much as I do though he reads half fiction, half non-fiction.
The gift of reading is one of the best things you can give to and exemplify for your children!
Barb Simeon says
You have some great books on your list. Thanks for the suggestions. I like that you made a plan. I tend to start so many that I don’t finish. I did recently read a Michael Phillips fiction book about Scotland and am working on the 2nd, both of which are good. I love historical ficition. But I can’t do it too often as other things get neglected as I get caught up in it. Also “What He Must Be” was awesome! “Beloved Bride” was a beautiful insight into a godly relationship. “Heart of Homeschooling” — good, but never actually finished. I’ve tried to keep up with Tim Challies current group read. He picks classics of the faith. Just can’t keep up. I’m determined to finish the 2nd Phillips book soon and then finish “A Shepherd Looks at the 23rd Psalm,” which is very insightful.
Maryanne says
Revolution In World Missions is a good one for sure! I also just finished “the hole in our gospel” by the president of World Vision, which is another great one dealing with our responsibility towards the poor with our money. Both books have similar themes.
Hmm, Run on sentences…. Sorry
Ann says
A few of those titles jumped out at me. I may have to do a library search for some of those.
I have rediscovered reading again. I wasn’t much of a reader as a child, but my children have become quite the readers which has inspired me.
I have read my son’s entire Harry Potter collection and am hooked on reading.
angie says
I am so impressed that you have your complete list for the entire year mapped out. Proof that there is so much good out there to read.
daisy says
What a lovely opening quote. I would love to share it–who should I credit?
Tammy's GoodPlans says
You’ll love Flipping the Switch! If you haven’t read the QBQ that one was written first, I believe, and I really enjoyed it as well.
Laura @ Frugal Follies says
Wow, that looks like a great list! I’m going to check to see if my local ibrary has many of those titles. I, too, start several books at a time and don’t necessarily finish them.
Charis says
Thanks for posting this. I love to read (and try to read a few pages every time I sit down to nurse my baby) and am always looking for recommended books. I’ll look forward to your reviews.
Jana at The Homeschool Jungle says
You are going to have a great year!
I love…
For the Children’s Sake
The Five Love Languages
The Now Habit
5 Minute a Day Bread
I’d skip..
Good to Great
I’d Add…
Parenting With Love and Logic
How to Wow
Happy Reading
Angela says
Good luck! I read 4 or 5 books at a time too, and am in a race to finish them before they are due back at the library. 🙂
I think you’ll really like the 5 love languages. It’s a good one. I’ve read the artisan bread book too. It’s such a great idea. I had a hard time executing it, but my husband was an excellent bread baker with the recipes in this book.
If you are compiling a list for next year (lol) you may want to think about Real Food by Nina Planck, The Omnivore’s Dilemma, Bringing up boys by James Dobson, The Two income trap, speed cleaning 101, Being a great mom, raising great kids by sharon Jaynes, The mother daughter legacy, protecting the gift, and Your money or your Life. 🙂 These were some of my favorites from 2009
elizabeth says
I got the Artisan bread book for christmas and the bread really does turn out as great as it looks in the pictures! Hope you love it!
Katy says
Looks like you have some good books on your list! I may have to add some of them to my list!
Have a great day!
Katy
Erica says
What a wonderful list! Several titles I had forgotten about and am now reinspired to look up. Personally, we have enjoyed Created for Work and are beginning to see the fruits of this wonderful book.
mollie says
Stonewall Jacksons Book, Beloved bride, is one of my faves of all time!! Hubby gave it to me as a wedding gift and I still read it often! Enjoy!
Dani says
My fiance and I was given The Five Love Languages for Christmas by his newly married brother. We both plan on having read it by our wedding. I’m halfway through and I think it is such a great resource. I plan on ‘sharing the wealth’ with a few of my friends that are also planning weddings.
This sounds like quite the goal for 2010 to me and I look forward to hearing about your journey.
colleen says
you have chosen some of my favorite books. “A Mother’s Heart” is probably the best book i have ever read on being a mom. I try to read it once every 2 years! This is my year to read it again so i will be joining you!