Summer Reading List

I thought some might like to see my summer reading list. Note that this is only a partial list, and includes some already completed reading.

The Complete Works of Josephus Completed

Written by the 1st century Jewish history, this is considered the go to reference for anyone researching the Jewish antiquities or 1st century history. I mainly skimmed this; it is heavily recap of the Bible, and lacks the divine inspiration.

To Kill a Mockingbird Completed
A classic recommended by Amy. I thought it was good, but not as good as the cover promised. Also, for me, the ending was a let down.

Fahrenheit 451 Completed

A Ray Bradbury novel, and another Amy pick, this is fiction at its finest. Although the fiction at times seems a little to near to real life for comfort. The novel is about a futuristic man whose job it is to burn books so that they wont be read. The logic is that books are too offensive, and we just want everyone to be happy, so just keep them watching TV. My TV viewing has dropped drastically since reading this. An incredible book.

The Mighty and The Almighty Completed

The book I'm currently reading, written by former Sec. Of State Madeline Albright, is a conversation about the role of faith and religion in world politics. The purpose of the book is a bit muddy, and the only suggestion to any world conflict she seems to have is to "use religious leaders to facilitate and legitimacy diplomatic negotiations." It is still a good informative read, despite the sneaking suspicion I have that it was written by committee.

Being God's Friend Partially Complete
A book by Charles Spurgeon, and a gift from Papa. I can't wait to read it. I have already read the first chapter and it seems to me a book everyone should reread monthly. I have also read "Quiet Times with Charles Spurgeon", a devotional book, and it was chalked full of striking Spurgeon quotes on every page. Spurgeon, agree or not, makes you think, and does have a way with wording the gospel.

A Consistant Ethic of Life Complete

An assortment of speeches and addresses made by the late Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, who was at one time the Archbishop of Chicago. The book addresses how Christians must develope a consistent ethic of life in the political and personal arena. In other words if the abolition of abortion is important to us thatn the cesation of warfare, a moratorium on the death penalty, and caombating hunger and disease should also be key values, for they are woven together into the "seamless garment of human life"

The Promise of Peace Complete

Another Cardinal Bernardin book, this one about Christian oppostition to warfare. I'm very interested in Catholic writing right now. They are far and away ahead of us in the area of social justice, and we would be wise to look to their beliefs in the political arena.

The Gospels

Amy and I will be reading them together.

Anything relating to Romans & Galatians

I have a Dr. Schenck Class on this subject this fall, I just want to be ready.

Much Much more....

I'll probably read ten more books than this even. However, this is all I'm sure of for now. If you have any suggestions let me know.