The ten books below are not ranked; you’ll not find here “the best books of the year according to Lianna,” “a list of books I endorse,” or even “my favorite books I read this year.” Instead, my list is comprised of a handful of books that drove themselves into my thinking and changed me this year.

Katharina and Martin Luther, by Michelle DeRusha

The story of a marriage between a runaway nun and the Reformer Martin Luther amidst the Protestant Reformation

Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cures, by David Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Addresses the source and causes of spiritual malaise; points to hope and joy

The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett

The captivating story of healing and finding joy, friendship, and freedom as a child

Introducing Christian Mission Today: Scripture, History, Issues, by Michael Goheen

An overview of the global mission of the church; includes history and present-day concerns

Christian Mission: A Concise Global History, by Edward Smither

Easy-to-read survey of the history of the spread of the gospel throughout the world

Missions: How the Local Church Goes Global, by Andy Johnson

Explains and helps the church in its vital role in worldwide missions

The Way Home, by Tessa Afshar

A heartfelt and touching six-week Bible study on the book of Ruth pointing toward redemption, providence, and divine purpose

God in the Whirlwind: How the Holy-love of God Reorients Our World, by David F. Wells

On viewing the world through the character of God in His holiness and love

Notes from the Tilt-a-Whirl, by N. D. Wilson

A poetic look at faith, wonder, and creation—coaxing the reader toward awe

The Story of Christianity: Volume 2: The Reformation to the Present Day, by Justo L. González

Traces events, movements, and figures in the history of the church from the time of the Reformation