Books read in January 2011

I am a reader and hope to encourage others to read and share what they read. Today I will list what books I read in January and a brief synopsis of each. I hope you enjoy.

Animal Farm by George Orwell A classic piece of literature that cleverly and bitterly mocks the socialists of the Soviet Union. The book was first published in 1945, just after the war and sought to warn the west of a "dangerously alien form of socialism."

Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose This book is actually a play that describes one man's struggle against the prevailing mindset. The story is of a jury that must decide whether or not a young man committed murder.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls This is the poignant story of a boy and his hunting dogs set in the Ozark mountains. The tale of "Little Ann" and "Old Dan" will inspire you and perhaps bring a tear to your eye.

Messenger by Lois Lowry This is the third in the Lowry trilogy (The Giver and Gathering Blue). I thought this book was an interesting portrayal of sacrfice and giving. Some spiritual connections could be made in this one.

Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry This is the second in the Lowry trilogy (The Giver and Messenger). It was an unusual look at a post apocalyptic society and differed greatly from The Giver.

Face of Betrayal by Lis Wiehl and April Harris This was the only Christian fiction book I read this month and the first I read from this author. You might recognize the name "Lis Wiehl" if you are a fan of Fox News. She often appears with Bill O'Reilly. This was an interesting, compelling story that had some interesting twists and turns. A good read.

Pudd'nhead Wilson by Mark Twain This is a later Twain novel and is a biting attack on the institution of slavery and southern attitudes. It is the story of two babies, both very light-skinned, switched at birth so that the "white" child grows up as a slave and the "black" child grows up free.

The Hardball Handbook: How to Win a Life by Chris Matthews This book was the only "political" book I read this month. I like Chris Matthews of MSNBC fame (though I do not always agree with him). His book chronicles his own journey and is an easy read and contains some good life lessons.

Jesus: The Greatest Life of All by Charles Swindoll This book was the climax of the Swindoll "Life" series. It was a thorough and powerful discussion of the life of Jesus Christ. I thought the book was quite challening and inspiring. I thought it could even be used in a "Life of Jesus" classroom setting. Highly recommend this one.

Finding God in Unexpected Places by Philip Yancey I am an unashamed fan of Philip Yancey's work. His challening and thought-provoking assertions always make me think and rethink what I believe and why. I thought of all the books I read this month, this one spoke to me most directly. Read anything Yancey writes is the advice I give.


I hope you will continue to read and grow, too. More next month. Thanks for reading....