Books and reading have always been important to me. Because of that, in the past few years, I’ve chosen to set reading goals for myself. In 2018 I had a reading goal of 25 books, and in the end, I was able to read 19.
I decided to set that same 25 books goal for 2019, and hopefully reach it this time. With just a few minutes to spare, I’m happy to report that I met my 2019 reading goal. (Yes, I finished reading my final book at 11:40pm on New Year’s Eve!)
I read so many great books in 2019 and just a couple that I thought were pretty good (but not great). Here in this post you’ll find my top 5 favorites, a couple of honorable mentions, and a list of all 25 books.
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My Top 5 Reads of 2019
*in no particular order
The Finest Hours by Michael J. Tougias
This is the adaptation for young readers, but I think it’s the perfect choice for most people. (The original version is full of a lot more sea and boat details and terminology.) I read this book while subbing long-term for a wonderful group of 6th graders. Maybe I love it so much because I taught it. Maybe I love it so much because it took place just a few miles from my home. Ultimately, it’s a true story that is hard to believe; that’s really what makes it so fantastic! If you want a great story of heroism, check out The Finest Hours! There’s also a movie version of the book that is well done. (Make sure you read the book first!)
It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst
I listened to this one and enjoyed hearing Lysa’s voice as she shared her marriage story and her heart. A lot of life is full of heartache and disappointment. We might be quick to say, “It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way!”. Yet there is hope and purpose in the midst of all the yuck. Lysa so beautifully conveys all of that in It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way.
Marilla of Green Gables by Sarah McCoy
I’ve always been a fan of Anne of Green Gables, so I was very excited when I learned Sarah McCoy had written a prequel. McCoy did a beautiful job of staying true to the original story and imagining (so very well) the untold story of Marilla of Green Gables.
Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callhan
You would categorize this book as historical fiction, and it is so wonderfully written. The author used old letters, journals, and poetry to write and bring to life the love story of C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman. Becoming Mrs. Lewis is a beautiful story of love, life, and faith.
Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport
I’m drawn to minimalism. I’m also drawn to intentional and purposeful living, so this book was right up my alley! If you’re looking to make your digital world a little smaller and more focused, I highly recommend this book. It’s full of important insight and plenty of practical tips. Digital Minimalism is not to be missed. (Read it with your spouse. Share it with your family.)
*If you enjoy listening to books, don’t forget about Audible’s free trial membership.*
2 Honorable Mentions
At Home in the World by Tsh Oxenreider
Delay, Don’t Deny by Gin Stephens
*If you like ebooks and audiobooks, then a kindle unlimited membership might be a great option for you.*
All 25 Books I Read in 2019
Remember God by Annie F. Downs (non-fiction)
The Finest Hours by Michael J. Tougias (non-fiction)
Sisters First by Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush (non-fiction, audio)
The Widow’s War by Sally Cabot Gunning (fiction)
Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate (fiction, middles grades)
It’s Not Supposed This Way by Lysa TerKeurst (non-fiction, audio)
Cozy Minimalist Home by Myquillyn Smith (non-fiction)
At Home in the World by Tsh Oxenreider (non-fiction)
Marilla of Green Gables by Sarah McCoy (fiction)
Restart by Gordon Korman (fiction, middle grades)
What Falls From The Sky by Esther Emery (non-fiction)
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin (fiction, middle grades, audio)
The Art of Frugal Hedonism by Annie Raser-Rowland & Adam Grubb (non-fiction)
Eat Cake. Be Brave by Melissa Radke (non-fiction)
A Dangerous Legacy by Elizabeth Camden (fiction)
The Proper Care & Feeding of Husbands by Dr. Laura Schlessinger (non-fiction)
Jacky Ha Ha by James Patterson (fiction, middle grades, audio)
Deny, Don’t Delay by Gin Stephens (non-fiction)
Death Comes to Pemberley by P.D. James (fiction)
Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan (fiction)
Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport (non-fiction)
The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker (non-fiction)
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows (fiction)
Catching Christmas by Terri Blackstock (fiction)
Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott (fiction)
Some Final Thoughts
*Just because I read these books, it doesn’t mean I recommend them all. (I do recommend my top 5, for sure!) For example, I thought The Widow’s War was interesting and well-written. It takes place where I live, and I always enjoy historical fiction. That being said, I think there is some mature content that I don’t always enjoy encountering in books (even as an adult).
*I love reading a variety of books. I enjoy both fiction and non-fiction. I enjoy heart-warming and serious. I think you’ll see that love of variety reflected in my list.
*I enjoy middle grades books very much. I’ve shared this before, but it’s true! I was a fifth grade teacher a number of years ago, and middle grade books are still some of my favorites. You’ll almost always find a few on my reading list each year!
Related Posts:
5 Books That Have Inspired and Encouraged the Not So Busy Mom
What about you? What books did you read in 2019? Any great titles you’d like to share? Feel free to drop your ideas in the comments below!
Until next time,
Charissa
The Not So Busy Mom
