I love books. I love the smell of an old book from the library as much as I love getting a brand new book in the mail. I love downloading books to my Kindle and asking friends every other week for new recommendations. And, let’s be totally transparent here, I have easily 50 books on my “to be read” list. I never know which book to crack open next!

If you’re anything like me, you told yourself 2015 would be the year you would read more. And, you probably haven’t lived up to that self-imposed obligation (I’m guilty). So, if you want to enter 2016 having actually crossed one of your New Year’s Resolution off, here are my Top Three Must Read Picks before 2015 comes to a close.

1. If You Feel Too Much by Jamie Tworkowski

If you don’t know who Jamie Tworkowski is, you need to check out his story and that of his organization, To Write Love On Her Arms first. I love his heart for hurting people and his passion for making people’s stories known. What makes his blog and organization great has been fully transformed into a physical copy you can carry around with you in If You Feel Too Much. This is less of a book and more of a collection of short thoughts/stories of the past 10 years. It encapsulates Jamie’s triumphs and struggles, his wins and defeats. He is open, honest and genuine in every word on every page. I fully recommend this book if you have ever struggled with depression, self-harm or know someone who has. It is a quick read, but also something you can read in small doses as each chapter stands alone as a separate story. Definitely worth the read.

2. Soul Detox by Craig Groeschel

I have read this book TWICE this year and am starting to read it a third time as you read this. I have never felt so challenged to make changes in my personal life as while reading this book. It covers every type of toxin that could exist in your life: toxic behaviors, toxic emotions and toxic influences. I have to warn you, if you read this book, you will feel convicted after every chapter. I did not think I had a problem with envy, but Craig proved me wrong. And, I think his words will help you grow in ways you never thought you needed to.

The church staff I work with read through this book together earlier this year, and now our whole church is reading through the book in small groups. If you are going to read this book, bring someone along with you. Keep each other accountable and ask tough questions. It will hurt, but you will love the you that comes out on the other side.

3. Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

Whether you have read C.S. Lewis before or not, this is great book to add to your list of “To Be Read.” It is written from a fictional perspective but has deep spiritual insight. If nothing else, it will get you thinking about the spiritual wars happening daily with or without your knowledge of them. I don’t want to give too much away, you just need to read it.

What about you? Any books on your must read list? Like I already said, I have a list of over 50 books to be read. What’s a few more going to hurt? Comment below and share what your top must read picks are before 2015 is a wrap. 

Happy Reading!