Favourite Books of 2019
In recent months as a way to shift my mind off anxiety, I intentionally began to read more. As a little girl, I was an avid reader, devouring Laura Ingall’s “Little House on the Prairie” books, anything Judy Bloom and “Anne of Green Gables”. As technology became more at our fingertips, I switched from books to screens. However; it’s just not the same. The content on my phone can vary from worthwhile to wasteful. But a phenomenal book? It captivates the mind of the reader. It’s a transcending and transformative experience. Here are my top picks for 2019:
Top Book Picks For 2019
MOST LIFE CHANGING* BOOK: “Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles” by Paul David Trip
Without a doubt, this goes to Paul David Tripp’s “Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles.” This is not a book you can skim. As I was reading this, I was trying to glean and absorb as much wisdom as I possibly could. There’s so much gold in here and I am in awe of the author’s God-given insight. This isn’t your cutesy “how-to” guide on how to get your kid to sleep at night [although a good night’s rest is very important]! Instead, Tripp lays the groundwork of our ambassadorial role as parents to reflect Christ and point them to Christ. It’s not simply about behaviour modification. It’s about the heart. I am oversimplifying it, but honestly it is so good that I have asked my husband to read it- and then I am going to read it again and mark-up-the-margins it’s that good!
*aside from the Bible of course ;)
MOST EDUCATIONAL BOOK: ”How To Rewire Your Anxious Brain” by Catherine M. Pittman PhD & Elizabeth M Karle MLIS
As someone who battles anxiety, this book was instrumental in explaining the neurological underpinnings of the fear/fight/freeze process, the role of the cortex and amygdala and provides practical strategies to combat this mental illness. And while, yes, it is scientifically heavy, it is written in an approachable way. I half-jokingly said to a friend, “It’s like a year’s worth of therapy in a book.” If you or a loved one struggle this way, it provides some much needed knowledge and perspective on a topic that is often stigmatized and misunderstood.
MOST ENTERTAINING READ: “Why Mommy Drinks” and “Why Mommy Swears” by Gill Simms
Disclaimer: This is an irreverent read. It’s provocative and inappropriate at times and HILARIOUS! Sometimes a girl has just got to let loose and laugh… and this book will deliver those full-belly, tears streaming down your cheeks, fits of giggles. Despite some of the shocking and outrageous characters and events, the protagonist, Ellen is quite relatable and there is a redeeming quality to this novel besides the humour.
“In every moment of parenting, the wise heavenly Father is working on everybody in the room. ”
I’d love to hear from you! What books did you love this year? Also, do you like to read traditional paper-bound books like me or are you a Kindle/Audiobook person?
