9 Books to Give this Christmas

It’s no secret that I have a love for books. It’s what made me want to be a writer actually. I used to hide Nancy Drew in my history and science textbooks and *attempt* to fool my mother into thinking I was doing my work. For as long as I can remember I’ve loved books. Recently I’ve been able to read more, and this summer, read six books of varying genres.

As the Christmas season approaches, various family members have asked for my Christmas list, and that got me thinking about books I would love to share with people this season. And so, for you lovelies, I’ve established a list of books (from different genres) that I loved, and were a great experience.

1. A Year of Biblical Womanhood by Rachel Held Evans
   This book had me in stitches. Rachel is incredibly down to earth, and has a great view of the world. As someone who dislikes Christian women being put in a specific role (cough cough *Proverbs 31* cough) I thought this book was fabulous. If you know someone who is into more of a liberal feminist view of womanhood, they need to read this.
2. Carry on Warrior by Glennon Doyle
   I could talk for days about Glennon. This woman is so very open and honest about her past. She doesn’t gloss over things or paint them into what they aren’t. I absolutely love her. Another great book for the feminist and people-lover in your life.
3. The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
   French fiction translated to English. A bit of a tougher read but beautiful story line that makes you look at the world differently. I loved the characters and the transformations. And chock-full of french culture.
4. You’re Never Weird on the Internet [Almost] by Felicia Day
   This girl cracks me up…Felicia Day’s self biography is hilarious and down to earth, and great for the nerds in your life.
5. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
   This beautiful Biblical historical fiction follows the life of Tamar, little known sister of Joseph. Very well written, and shows the side that if not often shown of the life of a woman during the biblical times. A great book to pair with “A Year of Biblical Womanhood” by Rachel Held Evans.
6. A Court of Thorns and Roses (Series) by Sarah J. Maas
   Fantasy fiction series with a bit of a Beauty and the Beast twist. I devoured this series and then got a few friends hooked on it too. The fourth book comes out in March of 2018 and I can’t wait! If you know someone who loves fantasy series and needs a new obsession, these books are for you-err.. I mean them!
7. Searching for Sunday by Rachel Held Evans
   This book changed my perspective on the church so much, and was a huge part of my reconciliation with my faith. It’s very real, and honest, and probably not a book recommended for pastors or church leaders who don’t understand why so many people are leaving the church. They would just get offended. This a great book for seekers, and people trying to make sense of their faith in the world we live in.
8. Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
   Historical fiction about the French revolution. A great pairing of contemporary life and historical plot. I read this book while at a family reunion, and let’s just say, without this book I would have been doomed. Excellent pick for anyone who loves historical fiction (and maybe time travel??) and the French revolution.
9. Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
   This book has me in stitches EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Everything Allie Brosh writes is pure gold, and I relate to this book on a very deep level. She can’t seem to adult, and you know what? Neither can I. Also, this book is full of lines that soon become inside jokes. Before you know it, you’ll be laugh-crying on your kitchen floor and holding a piece of corn while your husband questions your sanity…

Well I hope you enjoyed my list, whether you pick a book for a friend or for yourself. Enjoy the season!