Nadia Bolz-Weber

An eerie and captivating investigation into faith, from a convicted preacher to the practice of holy serpent handling. Set in Appalachia, this book explores the powerful and extreme aspects of belief, as the author takes a deep dive into the world of holiness snake handling. A must-read for anyone fascinated by American religion.

"Seculosity" by David Zahl explores the universal yearning for enoughness and righteousness in today's society. As religion declines, people turn to everyday activities such as eating, parenting, and dating for identity and purpose. However, this constant striving for enoughness is burning us out. Zahl takes a playful, personal, and incisive look at American "performancism" and its mercilessness, challenging the conventional narrative of religious decline. Through his insightful observations, he highlights the grace of God in its countercultural wonder.

This gripping memoir delves into the life of an activist who grew up in the notorious Westboro Baptist Church. Phelps-Roper reveals her journey from a childhood of protesting against homosexuality and other alleged vices, to her eventual departure from the church and moral awakening. Through her story, readers are shown the dangers of black-and-white thinking and the need for true humility in a time of angry polarization.

"Unapologetic" by Francis Spufford is a fiercely eloquent defense of Christianity against notable new atheist critics. Spufford’s background as a former atheist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature gives him a unique perspective on the subject. He argues that Christianity is relatable through the common vocabulary of human emotion and provides a realistic perspective on Christian experience. If you're tired of being talked down to or want to understand faith in the 21st century, "Unapologetic" will challenge and enlighten you.

This inspiring memoir follows the journey of a lesbian left-wing journalist who unexpectedly finds herself embracing a faith centered around real hunger and nourishment. With compassion and insight, she turns the bread eaten at communion into tons of groceries to be given away to the poorest parts of their city. Through her experiences, she discovers the joys of giving and receiving graciously, the importance of welcoming everyone to the table, and the transformative power of faith. This book is filled with compelling characters and is a powerful reminder of the goodness of humanity.