To assist all of you looking for a Christmas reading list or some gift ideas, The Church Mouse has compiled a handy list of books published (roughly) in the last year. Each one has come with glowing reviews and a personal recommendation via Bluesky or Twitter.
Mouse has linked to a certain online book retailer so you can easily find them, but other booksellers are available and Mouse encourages you to support your local bookshop if you can.
Women of The Nativity by Paula Gooder
Mouse is a big Paula Gooder fan. This book is the latest of her genre-defying imagined histories, where she tells the nativity story through the eyes of nine women. Mary, Elizabeth and others who are recorded in history have their perspective expanded and put into focus using Paula's deep biblical expertise.
Do Not Be Afraid by Rachel Mann
Subtitled 'The Joy of Waiting in a Time of Fear' Rachel writes The Archbishop of York's Advent Book 2024 on the most Advent theme - waiting. The blurb tells us that this book contains 'luminous meditations' structured to support personal reflection and prayer over the four weeks of advent.
The Challenge of Acts by Tom Wright
Tom Wright's eminence in New Testament scholarship needs no qualification. In an accessible book, Tom takes on the book of Acts in a holistic way, setting it in its historical context in both the Greco-Roman world and its Jewish context, as well as its context within the wider New Testament narrative.
Lower Than The Angels by Diarmaid MacCulloch
The venerable church historian addresses the topic of sex and the church. Given his starting point on the subject, many have made their mind up before parting the pages on this book, but Mouse will reserve judgement until he has read it. Given Professor MacCulloch's historical expertise it deserves serious reading.
I, Julian by Claire Gilbert
A fictionalised autobiography of Julian of Norwich, which sounds absolutely brilliant. Interest in Julian has ramped up in recent years, with a compelling personal story and a message that resonates to this day. This version of her story has received rave reviews.
Fully Alive by Elizabeth Oldfiend
Elizabeth Oldfield has become an important voice as a Christian public intellectual in recent years, leading the Theos think tank and hosting a fab podcast, Sacred. She has stood down from Theos to focus on other projects and this book distils many of the topics that come through her conversations on Sacred on how to live a rich and fulfilled life in our current turbulent times.
Tis Mercy All by Natalie Williams
Mouse has loved Natalie's previous books. Natalie has a practical and authentic voice, drawing on her own lived experience of porverty and he time as CEO of Jubliee+ charity. In this book she sets out how to live a live as a 'mercy-bringer' in the world. Sounds good to Mouse.
Waking The Women by Jayne Manfredi
Jayne is a social media legend and in this book she talks about one of the last taboos in church, 'the dreaded m-word: menopause'. The book blurb says that she writes with 'refreshing frankness' (not a surprise, Jayne!) and this book has had glowing reviews, described as moving, hilarious, profoundly spiritual and much more.
Jesus and Justice by Red Letter Christians UK
25 authors share stories and insights on seeking Jesus and justice. Some contributors are well-known and others' stories have not been widely told. Mouse expects an encouraging and inspirational read.
The Lord of Psalm 23 by David Gibson
Mouse loves to find new perspectives on familiar Bible passages. Psalm 23 is one of the most well known and well loved passages in all scripture. This book draws out theological insights and reflection on God's provision for us in our lives.
Bleeding for Jesus by Andrew Graystone
Mouse is expecting a difficult read in this one, but it is something we must face, however uncomfortable it may be. This account of John Smyth's abuse draws on many victim's accounts and Andrew Graystone's extensive research. Andrew has been a champion for Smyth's victims for years and after all we have learned from the shocking Makin report, we must listen them through Andrew's account.
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