Summer is the ideal time to catch up on your To‑Be‑Read pile. Whether you’re headed to the beach or the mountains this is the perfect time to escape into a book.

Picking out the right books can be a challenge but you can narrow down your selections by choosing books that feed your spirit, educate your mind, and entertain your soul.

My TBR pile began to resemble Mt. Everest last week after I returned from the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference. But here are the seven books at the peak of my mountain.

  1. Living Fearless: Exchanging the Lies of the World for the Liberating Truth of God by Jamie Winship
    Twenty-seven years ago, Jamie and Donna Winship helped me discover my true identity in Christ. From then on, God began to transform my live. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to become the person God created them to be.
  2. Hearing God by Dallas Willard
    I highly recommend adding a classic to your summer reading list and this is mine. Nothing changes your life more than God’s voice and Dallas Willard spent his time on earth teaching people how to hear their Creator.
  3. The Write Calling: Encouragement for the Writers Heart
    Written by a group of nine women known as Living Write Texas this book chronicles the highs and lows of being an author. As an author, I value the wisdom and encouragement from those who have gone before me.
  4.  Amplify! Secrets for Successful Speaking by Karen Porter
    Karen is an author, speaker, and publisher. She gave the keynote address on the first day of the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference. As a speaker, I can’t wait to glean from her wisdom and experience.
  5. Hope For Healing from Domestic Abuse by Karen DeArmond Gardner
    After meeting the author and hearing just a tidbit of her story I wanted to read more. Her inspirational story sounds like a page turner.
  6. Shattered Dreams to Treasured Truths: Transforming Lifes Disappointments by Donna Nabors
    Is there anyone on earth who has been disappointed by life? I don’t know about you, but I want to learn how to turn disappointments into treasures, so they don’t rob me of any more life.
  7. A Love Restored by Kelly Goshorn
    I grew up reading fiction, but as an adult I tend to choose non-fiction . . . until I spent eight hours in a car with two non-fiction authors. I’m excited to see how this romance ends.
  8. Big House, Little House, Back House, Barn by Thomas C Hubka
    I found this gem at a thrift store. Being a fan of old houses and architecture, I cannot wait to dive into this one.

So, whether you’re packing a bathing suit or hiking boots don’t forget to leave room for your books. Please leave a comment below with what books you are reading!