Top 10 Books I’ve Read So Far This Year

If you’ve been around here long, you know I love sharing good books—whether they’re deeply theological, beautifully written, or just plain fun to read aloud with my kids. Here are ten of my favorites from the first half of this year. As I look at the books on this list, I realize that my life is richer because of them. 

I’d love to know what’s been on your nightstand lately, too!

These are listed in no particular order.

1. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This one tops the list. A story so rich, so life-changing, I’m still thinking about it weeks after I finished (and recommending it to everyone I know). Allen Levi’s storytelling is gentle, wise, and full of gospel truth. I don’t consider myself a fast reader, but I flew through this in just three days! Highly, highly recommend this work of art. I can’t wait for the sequel! 

2. Light and Air by Mindy Nichols Wendell
My favorite middle grade read so far this year. Set in a tuberculosis sanatorium in the 1940s, this story captures friendship, resilience, and hope through the eyes of a young girl. My 10-year-old devoured it, and I loved it just as much. The characters are so lovable, and though the story is heavy, it ends on a hopeful note. 

3. Sincerely, Stoneheart by Emily Wilson Hussem
This book, written in the style of The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis but for modern women, convicted me in the best way. It feels relevant, convicting, and compelling without ever feeling preachy. I needed this one, and I recommend it for any believing woman!

4. The Opt-Out Family by Erin Loechner
If you’ve ever felt the tug to slow down, live counter-culturally, or rethink the modern rat race… this book will get you thinking. I found myself underlining whole pages. Thought-provoking and timely.

5. We Shall All Be Changed by Whitney Pipkin
Brave, tender, brilliant. This is not only a book for those who are actively dying (or those caring for someone who is), but for all of us who will one day face death. Whitney walks through death and resurrection hope with honesty and reverence. I cried more than once reading this one and wholeheartedly recommend this to every believer.

6. Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Tyler Staton
This book made me pray. Not just think about prayer, or learn about prayer—but actually get on my knees. I underlined so much, and I’ll be revisiting these ideas for years to come. If your prayer life feels dry or disjointed, this one is a gift.

7. Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart by Russ Ramsey
Part art history, part theology, part personal essay—this one stretched my brain in a new direction. It helped me better understand suffering, beauty, and the creative ache. A unique, thoughtful read.

8. Dig Deeper by Nigel Beynon and Andrew Sach
My favorite theology book so far this year. Clear, approachable, and practical—this book equips you to study the Bible more deeply without overwhelming you. I wish I’d had this years ago! I think this is a perfect follow-up to Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin (which I also recommend) with even more specifics to guide meaningful Bible study.

9. The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden by Karina Yan Glaser
My favorite read-aloud with the kids so far this year. Cozy, neighborly, and filled with heart. We’re only two books into the series, and the Vanderbeekers already feel like old friends.

10. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
My second favorite fiction pick—and my favorite cover of the year! A quirky, tender story that blends mystery, grief, and unexpected friendship. (Heads up: there’s some mild language.) It was hard to explain to anyone who saw me reading this book that a book involving an octopus narrator could be any good… but oh, it was! 

Have you read any of these? What’s been the most life-giving book you’ve read this year?