The Official "Top 10" List of Books to Read in 2014 Part 4

So today, I conclude my 1st Annual “Top 10” (really 16) books that are must reads in 7 different categories. I’ll just get right to it. As always, the titles are links to Amazon to download or purchase immediately.

 

In the Marriage Category, read:

 

Beyond Ordinary by Justin and Trisha Davis

Justin and Trisha’s story makes this book a must read for every married couple. They have a message that is so needed in the Body of Christ today. What a picture of the miracle working power of our God. This book will challenge you to take your marriage beyond what you think is possible. I am honored to call Justin and Trisha friends.

 

In the Prayer Category, read:

 

Circle Maker by Mark Batterson

I actually read this book twice this year! With this book, Mark has instantly propelled himself to the top of the list in terms of authoritative books on prayer for our generation! Definitely a top 10 pick for me.

 

In the Parenting Category, read:

 

For Parents Only by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice

I love Shaunti’s practical approach that is all data driven. Again, every parent ought to be required to read this before their teenager turns 15. Boom! Top 10.

 

Finally, in the Soul Health and Devotional category, my top picks are:

 

Devotional: Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Wow! I understand what all the hype is about. Such a great devotional. I’m privileged to write for the same publishing company.

 

The Enemies of Excellence by Greg Salciccioli

I read this simple, down to earth, easy to read book in late summer and it was amazing. I bought a copy for the 20 pastors who attended our Next Level Experience weekend this year. It’s soul searching. Every leader should read it. Top 10 for sure.

 

In conclusion, this year, I wanted to give you a few quick “Fun Facts” and Noticeables about my Book Reading this year. I think you’ll find this rather interesting.

 

Total books: 49

This number is low for me. In 2012, I read 74 books. I also wrote a book this year, so there’s that… Yeah, that probably matters as to how much content I was able to consume this year.

 

eBooks: 22 (44.8%)

 

Physical books: 27 (55.1%)

 

I’m actually surprised that so many were eBooks. I am a physical book in my hand kind of guy, but the data would show I’m switching over somewhat.

 

Books I didn’t finish: 17

I gave up feeling guilty for not finishing a book a long time ago. If you can’t hold my attention to the end, that’s on you, not me. Welcome to the world of too much content. (And yes, I realize that I’m an author too, so this is convicting to me as well!)

 

Rereads: 8

It’s interesting to note that 16.3% of the books I read in 2013 were Rereads. That means basically 1 out of every 8 books was me desiring previously consumed content over the dearth of new content that is saturating the reading world.

 

Reading Goal for 2014: 60 books

 

Writing Goal: 2 books

 

We’ll see how I do.

 

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