My 2018 Book List

If you have been following along on my Facebook page, you know that I have a goal of reading 12 books this year. To some of you that may not seem like many, and in other stages of my life I would have easily read twelve books in a month. However, as the mother of three with number four due in February my reading time is more limited now. I am not including the books I plan to read aloud to the children in those twelve books.

I originally planned on having all twelve planned out, but after searching and praying I’ve started with my first six and I’ll add to the list from there. This gives me a good foundation and the flexibility to add books to my list as the year progresses. My plan is to include a variety of books from inspirational to fiction that will add value to my life. My ‘word’ for the year is purposeful and I want to make sure even my book selections fit that focus.

My first selection I actually started on December 31st and I’m loving it. I may be a little biased because it was written by my husband, but seriously I’m enjoying it and looking forward to incorporating it into our homeschool this spring. It is a middle grades historical fiction novel about the Vietnam War. The title is Hero’s Next Door–Hornet 24.  I had read bits and pieces as he wrote it but he printed me a preview copy to read while we wait for the publisher to get final copies ready for publication. I have already learned things about the Vietnam War that I never knew. It includes a lot of great historical content but all from a perspective that is appropriate for younger audiences (which we have had difficulty finding).

My second book for the year is going to be Finding Selah by Kristen Kill. This book releases January 9th. I have enjoyed listen to Kristen on the podcast that she does with Sally Clarkson and the concept behind this book really resonates with me. The description reads in part: “The Psalms call it selah—the pause, rest, or interlude between the notes in a song. More than merely an empty space, selah is a chance to stop and resync with the story and song of God. For all the ways life keeps you running, this word and practice offers a way to re-center yourself on the One who holds all things together and makes all things beautiful.” While I won’t be doing a full book study on this one because of the arrival of the baby, I am hoping to blog and share some insights.

My third selection is a fun one that I find relaxing and enjoyable. I want to read the next book in The Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter by Susan Wittig Albert. I started these last summer and they are well written, interesting and easy reading. They make great summer reads. If you want more information about them you can read my review of the first one.

My fourth selection is about nature study.  Nature study is a part of our homeschool that I view as valuable but feel like we need to be more purposeful and intentional in our nature study.  Pocketful of Pinecones is written in story format but has over 100 examples of what to look for in nature walks, study questions, and more. I am hoping that this book will give me fresh ideas and help revitalize our nature study time.

Many of you have heard of the Read Aloud Revival or Teaching from Rest by Sarah Mackenzie. She has written a new book entitled  Read Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids. I’m very excited about reading this once it is released in March.

My sixth choice releases in May of 2018. Sally Clarkson has a new book called Lifegiving Parents. I did a book study on her last book which was the Lifegiving Table and really felt like it had a positive effect on my parenting and our home. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey with this new book and will probably also do a book study in conjunction with the book if anyone is interested in reading along with me.

Over the course of the year I’ll choose at least six other books to add to my list. Books that add value and enjoyment to my life. I may change the order of the books depending on life circumstances, we shall see what the year holds. I’d love for you to share in the comments what you want to read this year.

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