my bookshelf.

The other day, I let out a cheer as I told Landon I had already finished three books so far this year. He slowly raised his eyebrows, brought his hand to his mouth and busted up laughing. Apparently three books is no match for Mr. Abilene Public Library, but it's pretty good for me. And then, when I went to take this photo, I realized that I have actually finished four books, and I'm partially through two more. Regardless, these six books have easily been six of the best I've ever read, which is the real reason I'm sharing them with you, not to one-up Landon (because I never could). 

1. Start With Why by Simon Sinek

If you're involved in any kind of business, promotion, blogging, or simply sharing an idea you're passionate about, READ THIS BOOK. Simon's ideas are so simple it's a wonder it took a book to explain it, but I'm glad it did. From beginning to end, his thoughts on marketing, business growth and relationships are profoundly logical and based on real world examples. I'm planning to read it again. 

2. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

This one needs no explanation. Read it, watch the movie, and enjoy every second. I sure did.

3. The Lost Art of Real Cooking by Ken Albala and Rosanna Nafziger Henderson

I'm just a few chapters in to this one, but the preface mentioned a recipe for roasting a bear's behind, which sounds promising. Already, I've learned how to pickle (the real, eight-month-involves-mold way), how to can my own olives and how to crack open the olives before I can them. #winning

4. Why We Love the Church by Kevin DeYoung and Ted Kluck

I'm about halfway into this one, and it's pretty spot on. I think anyone who calls themselves a Christ follower but questions the purpose of organized church should read it. Maryn sent it to me after some frustration I was having over the "I love Jesus but not religion" video that came out a few months ago. My summary of the book in one sentence? Christ says the church is his bride, and you can't have a bride-less marriage.

5. Generation iY by Tim Elmore

This one was also recommended by a friend, and it articulates the unique challenges, strengths and potential problems for the Generation iY (those born after 1990). It's a great read if you work or interact with Generation iY-ers regularly.

6. Dinner: A Love Story by Jenny Rosenstrach

If you read only one of these books, choose this one. It might just be my favorite of these six. Jenny's honest and approachable voice is so fun to read, and she perfectly articulates the importance of families sitting down to a real meal together on a regular basis. On top of that, her recipes all sound not only delicious, but doable. She recounts her experiences from the perspective of a real mom with a real (busy) job and a real family. Amid life's craziness, it's good to sit down and enjoy some bolognese or salmon salad or black bean burritos together. Bravo, Jenny.

This book report of a blog post is brought to you by no one. I'm sure if any of these authors knew who I was, they'd have paid to me to write this, but alas, these thoughts are entirely my own.

xoxo.