If I’m honest, there aren’t too many things in this world that I enjoy more than a good book.
I not only delight in reading them but also talking about them late into the night with friends, copying out favorite passages into my little commonplace book (or on any scrap of paper I can find!) and returning to them again and again. That passion is what sparked the desire to create this space and share a bit of what I hold so dear with you.
If you know me in real life and have had more than a few conversations with me, you have probably heard at least a few of these recommendations. I truly can’t help myself!
I thought this would be a great place to recommend some of the most beloved books lining my shelves so that you can see them all in one place.
Allow me to share a few thoughts first.
Although I am constantly reading new things, there is nothing quite like an old favorite. More often than not, I reach for these if only to revisit a particular passage or chapter to keep me company. If it is here, I have probably read it at least a few times. In the words of the great C.S. Lewis,
“It is a good rule after reading a new book, never to allow yourself another new one till you have read an old one in between.”
That being said, many of the books most dear to me have been friends since childhood. They were my playmates (if only in my head) and were often formative in shaping my ideals, view of the world, how I saw myself, and the kind of woman I wanted to grow up to be.
I enjoy them as much today if not more than I did then and don’t hesitate to pick up a “children’s book” on a rainy day. This may not be the most scholarly booklist ever because of that but you know what, that’s okay with me. Quoting C.S. Lewis again (yes, he is undoubtedly one of my favorites),
“No book is really worth reading at the age of ten which is not equally – and often far more – worth reading at the age of fifty and beyond.”
Alright then, without further ado, allow me to introduce you to a few of my dear friends…
I hope you grow to love them as much as I do.
Childhood Favorites
Fantasy
Love and Marriage
Mentorship and Motherhood
Beauty
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MG
November 25, 2016 at 6:35 pm (7 years ago)Such a great compilation of literature and thought-provoking pieces! I’ll have to check out those on the Motherhood and Beauty lists. Thanks for the book suggestions, and thank you for inspiring us with your beautifully written posts of saints’ quotes!
alisonoertle
November 26, 2016 at 10:48 pm (7 years ago)Thank you so much Marchelle. You will have to let me know if you read any of the books from my shelf. I would love to hear your thoughts. I think you will love them 🙂 Blessings, Alison
AM
December 11, 2016 at 3:21 am (7 years ago)I am SO happy you have a booklist! [insert happy dance emoticon which I can’t find] I love your site Alison. 🙂
alisonoertle
December 14, 2016 at 4:46 pm (7 years ago)Yay, we can talk books anytime you want Amanda 🙂 I’m so happy you are joining me here.