Looking for a great book to read over Christmas break? Here are some of our professors’ top picks!
Professor Tracy Anderson-Tellado:
I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown: I read this book, and was blown away by how closely Brown’s story mirrored my own in terms of how she had to navigate between the white and black worlds and the racial injustice inherent in our society at large, in order to discover her own identity as a black woman. I would recommend this book because it could be instrumental in helping those in the majority culture recognize the differences in our respective realities.
A Community Called Atonement by Scot McKnight: I read this book for one of my theology classes, and it remains an important source to me. I believe that it could be helpful for those who may believe that theologies of atonement should be more nuanced and encompass more than a single theory; for example, that of penal substitution. This book gave me a great deal to consider.
Dr. Celeste Gonzalez-Moreno:
The Resolution for Women by Priscilla Shirer: It is transformative for women seeking to grow spiritually.
The Century of the Holy Spirit by Vinson Synan: This book blew me away! I had the honor and privilege of being taught by Dr. Synan, a great historian and man of God, who was present at many of the events that are recorded in the book. The book is a powerful testimony of the Holy Spirit’s move throughout the 20th century.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck: One of the great classics that is a must read! Also, I love the symbolism and the character profiles of both Lenny and George.
Dr. Doug Jackson:
Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer: He speaks such a powerful word in favor of Christian community in an age drowning in individualism.
The Complete Works of Shakespeare: He employs a beautiful use of language, penetrating insights into human behavior, and endless supply of apt sermon quotes. We deal in words; we should have the best grasp of language of anyone in society.
Jesus and the Disinherited by Howard Thurman: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., kept this book on his nightstand and took it with him everywhere. Thurman cuts through the cultural crust we often drape over the Son of Man.
Anything by C. S. Lewis, because, well, c’mon!
Professor Andres Garcia:
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard: It takes a look at spiritual formation and the Kingdom of God and how to live and move in it all.
Professor Primitivo Pagayon:
Reclaiming Glory: Revitalizing Dying Churches by Mark Clifton:
This book helped me face the reality of the need to make changes and necessary adjustments in my church.
Professor Krissy Nichols
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens: This is my favorite Christmas book, and my favorite book by Dickens by far. It has powerful imagery, a touching story, and a redemptive message.
O Shepherd Where Art Thou by Calvin Miller: This is a fun story deals with real issues in today’s church in a way that is both striking and hilarious.
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis: I love this book. I love especially how it makes me think differently and more imaginatively about the Jesus story.
Preacher Breath by Kyndall Rae Rothaus: Rothaus is a young female pastor, and she is beautifully transparent about her struggles and triumphs. She writes beautifully, as well, and her writing is heartbreakingly relatable.