As you know already, I love reading, and finding new books to read. Here are a few of my favourite books and series, besides the Bible of course.

1. Christian Heroes: Then and Now Series
  Reading about these faithful missionaries is a good way of getting grounded in the reality of life, and the blessings we have around us. It's also encouraging to see the way God worked in the lives of these people.

2. Pilgrims Progress by John Bunyan
This is a classic, that gives more every time you read it. There's always something new to learn and ponder. I grew up listening to the dramatized audiobook - which is a bit different than the original, but a wonderful version.

"A man there was, though some did count him mad, the more he cast away the more he had.”

3. Desire of Ages by E.G. White

   This book follows the life of Christ, starting with the state of Israel before His birth, and ending with His ascension. It goes into depth on His words, His works of mercy, and His mission of mercy and justice and brings everything into practical theology of what we can learn from it and apply to our lives. Worth reading and re-reading, especially as a study tool as you read through the gospels.

"We need not go to Nazareth, to Capernaum, or to Bethany, in order to walk in the steps of Jesus. We shall find His footprints beside the sickbed, in the hovels of poverty, in the crowded alleys of the great city, and in every place where there are human hearts in need of consolation. In doing as Jesus did when on earth, we shall walk in His steps." 

4. Little Women - Good Wives by Louise May Alcott
  This is another book that is a gift that gives more every time I read it. There are so many lessons, wise words, and values to glean. The gentle story of the sisters growing up, and how each of their paths branched off makes for a sweet read. Although it is technically a children's book, I never read it until I was older, and feel that I was more able to appreciate it!

 "Simple, sincere people seldom speak much of their piety; it shows itself in acts rather than words, and has more influence than homilies or protestations."

5. Priceless: A Novel On the Edge of The World    When I began this book, I knew about human trafficking. But I never realized how much occurs in Russia, and the full extent of the danger those who fight slavery put themselves into. This book made me angry, so angry, and disgusted. Which might make you wonder why it is on this list. Anger is a good and right reaction to this issue, and it spurs actions.
   This book was so well-written, and although it did show the brutality of trafficking, and I would recommend it for those 16+, it was not over explicit or gruesome.

6. Evidence Not Seen - Darlene Diebler Rose

   An incredible true story of a young missionary wife who is imprisoned in a Japanese prison camp. Inspiring and sobering, definitely makes you think about whether your faith is strong enough to endure hardships!

“Who understands the thrill of seeing the first bright flowers of spring so clearly as one who has just lived through the long, hard winter?”

 Picking a favourite book is impossible. The list often changes and grows. I have missed so many other books that I love, sticking instead to some books that I tend to go back to many times. Check out my Goodreads page if you'd like to see more books I love, or feel free to write to me and ask for some book suggestions! 

   Of course finally I must include my own book;

  Willow: A Story - by Rachel Rowbottom

   Lauren was abandoned by her mother on the steps of her grandparents' home when she was an infant. Now years have passed and as a young woman she is reeling from the recent loss of her grandparents.

   Charlotte is a single mother setting out to find a new beginning for herself and her five year old daughter, which means retracing her steps.

   The two women's lives intersect on the doorstep of their childhood home. History seems to be repeating itself, and the key to healing and forgiveness might be a little girl names Willow.