Summer Reading Highlights

I realize it’s a lost pastime in our culture; however, in the hopes that the right material will inspire some of you, here are some titles that I’ve either read recently or am currently working on:

Unbroken – A WWII Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption

Penned by the author of Seabiscuit, Laura Hillenbrand’s story of Louie Zamperini, “a juvenile delinquent-turned-Olympic runner-turned-Army hero”, is perhaps the most gripping and incredible biography I’ve read. It begins with Zamperini’s childhood, follows him into the Army and continues with his imprisonment in a Japanese POW camp. What’s more, the story doesn’t end there, and I found that what happened to Zamperini after the war was equally amazing.

Horse Soldiers: The Extraordinary Story of a Band of Soldiers Who Rode to Victory in Afghanistan

Beth got me this book for Father’s Day (great job honey!). It follows the stories of several highly trained U.S. soldiers who were the first into Afghanistan after 9/11. Working in small teams with tribal warlords fighting the Taliban, the soldiers relied upon horses for transportation as they waged a war with “smart bombs”, cunning, courage and bravery.

Sitting at the Feed of Rabbi Jesus – How the Jewishness of Jesus Can Transform Your Faith

I’m reading this book as a part of a summer reading group. The authors provide a treasure trove of scholarship which brings alive the time, place and culture in which Jesus lived. As I read, I’m gaining new insights into the 1st century Jewish mind. These insights are making the Scriptures come alive with connections and nuances that I’ve never seen before. This is a good book both for the knowledge it relays and the contemplation it inspires.

Got any other titles you think I should work in during the last days of summer? Be sure to leave your suggestions in the comments.