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It’s still hard to believe that the tumultuous year of 2020 is over. For most, it has been a decidedly frustrating, exhausting, and confusing year.
My solace has been reading.
When I was younger, I used to escape into the world of books to grapple with my teenage angst, my desire to be different and experience the life and adventure of someone I was not, or simply to have an hour or so to myself (growing up with 3 brothers, while often wonderful, occasionally meant I needed a little escape).
This year, books have been a comfort. A way to grow my knowledge and improve my mind while sitting at home much of the year during shelter-in-place.
I’m always looking for new books to read, so I suspected some of you might be too. That’s why I put together this list of my favorite books of 2020.
I’ve broken them down into sections for you to peruse, specifically because I’m someone who reads books about spirituality and I acknowledge this is not for everyone. So, take a look through the three categories: non-fiction, spiritual non-fiction, and fiction.
I’ve always thought books were a bit like a window into someone’s soul. A way to see and understand a part of who they are by what they find most interesting to read.
Looking at my list I can clearly see how and why I chose these books to read this last year. And they have shaped me and molded me for the better (I hope). Even the works of fiction.
Anyway, I hope you find at least one, if not more, books to add to your 2021 list. And if not, be sure to check back for my list of books to read for 2021, coming soon!
FAVORITE BOOKS OF 2020
NON-FICTION BOOKS
Deep Work by Cal Newport
My husband told me to read this book for 2 years and I finally read it this year. Despite some shortcomings (a serious lack of representation of successful women), the concepts were extremely relevant and it was good enough for me to include on this list. I’d definitely recommend checking it out!
How to Do Nothing by Jenny Odell
Admittedly, I’m still in the middle of this, but it’s too good not to include. A witty and extremely well researched book, this is a must-read this year.
Girls’ Club by Sarah, Sally, and Joy Clarkson
If you’re struggling with how to find and keep good friendships amongst other women, this book is very grounding and humbling.
SPIRITUAL NON-FICTION BOOKS
The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson
I knew I would like this book when I first heard about it, and I absolutely did. It is challenging, sparks the curiosity, and makes me truly wonder about the power of prayer in my own life.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
John Mark Comer truly reminds us the meaning of hurry, and why hurry and God don’t belong in the same sentence (God does not have a “last minute” nature). For anyone whose job description has the word “fast-paced environment” in it, this is a book to pick up this year.
Searching for Sunday by Rachel Held Evans
Rachel Held Evans was truly a gifted writer, and her passing was much too soon. I’m so thankful she left her thoughts and questions in such a beautifully woven book. For anyone who has wondered about the meaning of spirituality and the purpose of Sunday, Rachel’s book is here to remind you you’re not alone.
FICTION BOOKS
To Be Where You Are by Jan Karon
I’ve read this book a few times in my life, but the title rang true in a different way this year. This is one of the last books in the Mitford series. If you’ve never read any of these books, I’d highly recommend starting at the beginning (here’s a link to the first book, At Home in Mitford) and delving into the life of quirky bachelor, Father Tim, and his quest to serve his little town of Mitford. Not your typical small-town story, the Mitford series is full of depth, witty humor, and real-life experience.
The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd
What would it have been like if Jesus had had a wife? That’s the question Sue Monk Kidd’s book explores. This is one of the most realistic books I have read. Incredibly well researched and a gripping story, this is a work of fiction to add to your home library.
Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan
I have read much of C.S. Lewis’s work, but little is mentioned of his wife, Joy Davidson. This historical fiction work is such an interesting look into what it must have been like to learn about, romance, and eventually marry one of the most influential Christian writers of our time. A fantastic read.
I hope you’ve enjoyed looking through my favorite books of 2020, and perhaps found a book or two that is intrigued you enough to buy it or check it out from the library this week!
Leave me a comment and let me know what you end up reading. Or, let me know what YOUR favorite book of 2020 was so I can pick up a copy too!
Like this post? Be sure to share it with a friend who might be looking for a book to read this year.
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