Big Summer Read

Are you experiencing deep contentment and joy in your everyday life with God? If so, well done – this book might simply serve as a pleasant check-up, like a spiritual MOT where everything comes back green.

For the rest of us, it’s essential reading.

I’ve read a small mountain of Christian books, and this is the one that has had the greatest impact on helping me actually practise making space for God – slowly, imperfectly, but genuinely – to transform every part of my life into Christlike love.

Revd. Chris Smith

This may seem like a fairly-hefty read for Summer – and it is!

The times when I might feel closest to God can be those significant moments in life – when the big occasions arrive, or the greatest challenges or opportunities present themselves, when I find myself part of something truly awe inspiring, or when I am close to being overwhelmed by joy, thankfulness, or grief and sadness.

However, most of the while life isn’t quite like this, is it? It’s more of a steady existence. You might say, ‘ordinary’.

Charlie Cleverly speaks about the immense value of inviting God to show himself amid our ordinary lives. He does this through eighteen very readable chapters, which include numerous biblical examples and references to theological thinking, and which have intriguing titles such as “waiting”, “loving”, “kissing”, “surviving”, “touching”.

The author was a Rector of St Aldates in Oxford, at the time of his writing. A visit, with friends, to this heavily-student-populated church was for me an inspiring introduction to contemporary ways of worshipping. I have to say, this is what fired my enthusiasm to read his book. And I’m so pleased that I have.

Clive Joyce

This historical novel is set in Philippi, telling vividly the story of Lydia, the dealer in purple cloth, whom we meet in the Bible in Acts 16.  It is engaging, detailed and a well-told story with unexpected turns.  It tells the story of the very early church in Philippi, and the time when Paul’s letter – addressed to that church – is received.

The writing is carefully researched; the author is a well-respected New Testament scholar. So, perhaps no surprise, there are notes to the novel which are very interesting and detailed. But you don’t have to read them!  The story stands alone but the notes – which can be read later – really add to the interest of the book.   A really good summer read!

Sara Humphreys

The presentation and format of this book clearly suggests that it is aimed at young folk exploring their faith. It is full of wonderful, supportive ideas which are backed up with plenty of Bible quotes. 

I found it refreshing and inspirational, written by a man known for his tough, outdoor adventures. Ideal for individual reading or for sharing with an older person but I would recommend it to any age.

Marion Saunders

(Also in the Library ‘Mind Fuel for young explorers’ by Bear Grylls with Will Van Der Hart, no Bible quotes in this one but subtle references to Bear’s Christian faith.)

I would recommend this book, which manages to be easy to read whilst covering some big issues in everyday life, and supported by Psalm 23 offers comfort, understanding and encouragement. nourish their relationship with God.

Judith Budge

This is a delightful book full of beautiful imagery and depth of insight. Conversations and letters from Brother Lawrence contain some wonderful nuggets of gold to mine for with him. As he says: “God has infinite treasure to bestow and we take so little through routine devotion which lasts but a moment.” Rather, for him, “in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquillity as if I were upon my knees at the Blessed Sacrament.”

I grappled with some of his thoughts, especially about sickness and suffering, but I enjoyed the provocation to really think.

This is Pope Leo’s favourite book and has become one of mine. I hope you enjoy it too.

Revd Jo Jefferys