Writers Who Read: New Reads for 2019

For many people, they keep a list of books they want to read. These ideas are ones that might be classics, New York Times bestsellers, or newly published. To help add to your new read list for 2019, this month’s “Writers Who Read” shares some of our favorites.

The Northern Lights Series by Lisa Tawn Bergren

This three-book, historical fiction series is set in Norway and channels a group of immigrants coming to America in the mid-1800s. The three books, The Captain’s Bride, Deep Harbor, and Midnight Suntell the stories of characters who travel the world and those who discover the Dakotas, Washington territories, and into Alaska. “What I love is how brilliantly the author shares these stories to the point that they feel so real,” said writer Denise Heidel. “The character Kaatje may be one of my favorite characters of all the books I’ve ever read. In addition, I love history, especially this era of history, and I love how the author invites the reader to explore early American culture and other places through the eyes of the characters.”

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Another historical, Christian fiction series is Redeeming Love. Suggested by Denise Heidel, author Francine Rivers takes the book of Hosea from the Bible and sets it in the California Gold Rush. It follows the story of how Michael Hosea rescued and married the high-priced prostitute, Angel. With patience and prayer, Michael loves Angel just as God commanded him to do. In addition, the actual events of the prophet Hosea marrying the prostitute Gomer are mirrored in the book. “Believe it or not, I have a far greater understanding of the book of Hosea in the Bible because of this fictionalized account,” Heidel stated. “The story is a reflection of God’s love for Israel and how Israel constantly ran back to idolatry and betrayed God, yet God continued to love His chosen nation. It is Christian fiction at its finest.”

Becoming by Michelle Obama

During the holidays, I was glued to the book Becoming. It was riveting, full of personal reflections, and very inspiring. Former First Lady Michelle Obama gives readers insight into her childhood and life before and after her husband, Barack Obama’s presidency. This memoir is divided into three sections: “Becoming Me,” “Becoming Us,” and “Becoming More.” In “Becoming Me,” Obama gives an in-depth account of her childhood in the South Side of Chicago, years spent at Princeton and Harvard, her career days, and the beginning of creating a life and family with her husband. “Becoming Us” channels Barack’s early political days, as well as their joys and challenges of raising two daughters. Lastly, “Becoming More” channels the Obamas’ time spent in the White House. The author describes the joys and triumphs, along with the challenges they faced. Also, this section gives readers a full understanding and picture of how during those eight years, the White House became very welcoming, as well as an overview of the programs Obama created to empower women, girls, and military members and their families. After reading the book, I left feeling energized and motivated to become a better person and help make a difference in the world. Becomingprovides readers with little bits of advice and encouragement to us in our own lives. Plus, the book is a #1 New York Times bestseller and a 2018 selection for Oprah’s book club selection. So, you know if Oprah approves, it must be something good.

New reads are popping up all the time. The only problem is just making the time to read all of the books. Happy reading!

 

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