Love The Year of Living Biblically? Readers share 100 books like The Year of Living Biblically...

By A.J. Jacobs,

Here are 100 books that The Year of Living Biblically fans have personally recommended if you like The Year of Living Biblically. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Skios

Corinne Maier Author Of The Conquest of the Red Man

From my list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a french writer, I like to write satires and tongue-in-cheek books about society. Work, children, France, social classes... When you find the right angle almost everything can be funny. With my writing I want to entertain, but give the reader something to think about. I hope this list will make you laugh as much I did. 

Corinne's book list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes

Corinne Maier Why did Corinne love this book?

On the Greek island of Skios, the philantropic foundation Fred Toppler brings together once a year the scientifical elite. But this summer, nothing works as planned following a suitcase mix-up at the airport. The misunderstandings follow one another, leading the characters to connect with people of other social backgrounds. The pompous and eminent academic Norman Wilfred finds himself trapped in a remote house with Georgie, a nice but limited young woman, when Oliver Fox, a good-looking playboy, deliberately takes Normanā€™s place at the Toppler foundation, to the delight of the guests. I enjoyed very much the social satire and the brilliant dialogues of Skios. This funny and acidulous book is perfect for reading at the beach. 

By Michael Frayn,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Skios as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize

'Good God, thought Oliver, as he saw the smile. She thinks I'm him! And all at once he knew it was so. He was Dr Norman Wilfred.'

On the sunlit Greek island of Skios, the Fred Toppler Foundation's annual lecture is to be given by Dr Norman Wilfred, the world-famous authority on the scientific organisation of science. He turns out to be surprisingly young and charming - not at all the intimidating figure they had been expecting. The Foundation's guests are soon eating out of his hand. So, even sooner, is Nikki, the attractiveā€¦


Book cover of The Queen and I

Corinne Maier Author Of The Conquest of the Red Man

From my list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a french writer, I like to write satires and tongue-in-cheek books about society. Work, children, France, social classes... When you find the right angle almost everything can be funny. With my writing I want to entertain, but give the reader something to think about. I hope this list will make you laugh as much I did. 

Corinne's book list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes

Corinne Maier Why did Corinne love this book?

Letā€™s imagine the English people have decided to abolish the monarchy. We are back in the eighties, and the Windsor family, expelled from Westminster, is relocated to a poor neighborhood of London and is required to work. The ex-Queen tries to cook, Philip is depressed, Diana wonders about her wardrobe and Charles discovers gardening talents...The Queen and I is a book that plays wonderfully on the human and linguistic gap between high society and common people. Funny situations and the satirical tone made me laugh on each page. I recommend it to all the people who are struggling to make a livingā€”theyā€™ll think it could be worse

By Sue Townsend,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Queen and I as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In the not-too-distant future, a radical government has come to power in Great Britain and the Royal family has been moved to a housing estate in Leicester. For the first time, the Royals have to live as ordinary people and they find the experience baffling and frightening, but ultimately enriching. A satire on the failings of the welfare state, the pretensions, expectations and personal foibles of the Royal Family - this warm-hearted and affectionate comedy concerning the Royals' attempts to come to terms with their new situation with moments of gentle irony alternating with pure farce - are just someā€¦


Book cover of Deaf Sentence

Corinne Maier Author Of The Conquest of the Red Man

From my list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a french writer, I like to write satires and tongue-in-cheek books about society. Work, children, France, social classes... When you find the right angle almost everything can be funny. With my writing I want to entertain, but give the reader something to think about. I hope this list will make you laugh as much I did. 

Corinne's book list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes

Corinne Maier Why did Corinne love this book?

Desmond, a retired teacher, is embarrassed by increasing deafness which he tries to hide. Hearing loss is a constant source of domestic friction with his busy wife and of social malaise, leading Desmond into mistakes and follies, and to find himself in incongruous situations. Comes Alex, a student whom Desmond has agreed to help after a misunderstanding at a partyā€¦ Despite sensitive topics (deafness, confrontation with death), Deaf Sentence manages to be deeply entertaining with a lame love story and a disillusioned portrait of contemporary society. I recommend it to everyone, because we all feel overwhelmed from time to time. 

By David Lodge,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Deaf Sentence as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The subject of enthusiastic and widespread reviews, David Lodge's fourteenth work of fiction displays the humor and shrewd observations that have made him a much-loved icon. Deaf Sentence tells the story of Desmond Bates, a recently retired linguistics professor in his mid-sixties. Vexed by his encroaching deafness and at loose ends in his personal life, Desmond inadvertently gets involved with a seemingly personable young American female student who seeks his support in matters academic and not so academic, who finally threatens to destabilize his life completely with her unpredictable-and wayward-behavior. What emerges is a funny, moving account of one man'sā€¦


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Book cover of Tap Dancing on Everest: A Young Doctor's Unlikely Adventure

Tap Dancing on Everest by Mimi Zieman,

Tap Dancing on Everest, part coming-of-age memoir, part true-survival adventure story, is about a young medical student, the daughter of a Holocaust survivor raised in N.Y.C., who battles self-doubt to serve as the doctorā€”and only womanā€”on a remote Everest climb in Tibet.

The team attempts a new route upā€¦

Book cover of Wilt 1

Corinne Maier Author Of The Conquest of the Red Man

From my list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a french writer, I like to write satires and tongue-in-cheek books about society. Work, children, France, social classes... When you find the right angle almost everything can be funny. With my writing I want to entertain, but give the reader something to think about. I hope this list will make you laugh as much I did. 

Corinne's book list on tongue-in-cheek about social classes and clashes

Corinne Maier Why did Corinne love this book?

Henry Wilt is a disillusioned teacher who feels stuck between his collegues who look down on him, and his super positive wife Eva, who wants to enjoy life in every fashionable way possible. When walking his dog, Henry imagines how to kill Eva. Reality catches up with fiction when he is charged by the police for her murderā€¦ Ludicrous situations follow one another, and Wilt 1 is hilarious. I enjoyed the book because it is based on a collision between Henry, a man who does not believe in the seriousness of things, and the other characters, who all embody their social roles to the point of caricature. I recommend it to people who sometimes feel trapped in their livesā€”as most of us do. 

By Tom Sharpe,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Wilt 1 as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Book cover of Anna's Amish Fears Revealed

Molly Jebber Author Of Rachael's Decision

From my list on escaping into a world of inspirational Amish romance and suspense.

Why am I passionate about this?

Iā€™ve visited Amish communities for years as a tourist. An agent suggested I write it because of my faith in God. The Amish base their lifestyle and traditions on their faith in God, and she felt the books would be more authentic if the author felt the same. Iā€™ve never been Amish, but the topic is fun to research, and some of the Amish are forthcoming in helping me. I love the fried chicken, homemade butterscotch pie, corn pudding, and beautiful quilts they have available when visiting the different Ohio and Indiana communities. They are not my typical audience.

Molly's book list on escaping into a world of inspirational Amish romance and suspense

Molly Jebber Why did Molly love this book?

Tracy shows the flaws and fears in her characters really well. She weaves in the romance just the right way. Youā€™ll feel like you know the characters personally as you read the story. Youā€™ll enjoy her stories as I do. She also helps you learn about the Amish lifestyles and traditions.

By Tracy Fredrychowski,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Anna's Amish Fears Revealed as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Her faith in the Lord has been tried beyond all measure. Can this fearful believer rest secure in Godā€™s protective care for her life?

Anna Byler is paralyzed by fear and anxiety. While the young Amish woman is devastated after Simon Kauffman leaves the Amish community, she finds little comfort in her new relationship with Jesus to fill the void Simon left in her life.

Still wrestling with accepting Godā€™s comforting peace, Anna sets out on a journey to uncover the truth behind Simonā€™s disappearance and then his untimely return to Willow Springs. But her discovery leads her to questionā€¦


Book cover of Secrets Come Home

Amy Lillard Author Of Kappy King and the Puppy Kaper

From my list on cozy mysteries set in Amish Country.

Why am I passionate about this?

I never dreamed I would write books about the Amish, and now I have over thirty to my credit. In researching my books, I have fallen in love with the varied culture the Amish represent. Iā€™m a romance writer at heart, and sort of fell backward into writing mysteries. And Iā€™m so thankful I did! What I love the most is how the cultures (ours and theirs) must work together (or not, depending on the people in the story) to solve the crime. Trouble sets many more obstacles than a regular mystery. More denial that someone could be guilty. 

Amy's book list on cozy mysteries set in Amish Country

Amy Lillard Why did Amy love this book?

This was my first Samantha Price book, but it wonā€™t be my last. I loved it!

Of course, I have always loved cold cases, and this one was fantastic. I love following clues, but itā€™s even more challenging following clues that are decades old. I thought the mystery was well-thought-out and very clever.

But I love it when there are lessons to be learned, both spiritual and practical. This book has both. Huzzah!

By Samantha Price,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Secrets Come Home as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Welcome to the world of Ettie Smith Amish Mysteries, where USA Today Bestselling author Samantha Price blends intrigue, humor, and charm in this much-loved series.
When Ettie Smith inherits her late friend Agatha's home, she stumbles upon a chilling secret: a body concealed beneath the floorboards. While the police are quick to attribute this grim discovery to Agatha, Ettie firmly believes in her friend's innocence and sets off to discover the truth.
With her wisdom and dogged determination, Ettie unearths hidden secrets and unexpected links to the past. Just as she's closing in on the truth, an old, mysterious keyā€¦


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Book cover of The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever

The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier,

The coaching book that's for all of us, not just coaches.

It's the best-selling book on coaching this century, with 15k+ online reviews. BrenƩ Brown calls it "a classic". Dan Pink said it was "essential".

It is practical, funny, and short, and "unweirds" coaching. Whether you're a parent, a teacher,ā€¦

Book cover of Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again

Malinda Fugate Author Of The Other Three Sixteens

From my list on for Christians to revive a stalled faith journey.

Why am I passionate about this?

Iā€™m just an everyday person. I donā€™t have a fancy title or lots of degrees, but I do have experience being close to God and a never-ending quest to know Him more. His love is so good that it absolutely must be shared. So if I, in all of my ordinariness, can learn extraordinary sacred things, then I can bring others along the journey, too. His presence in my heartaches, struggles, joy, and adventures has sustained my life, and I donā€™t know any credential that could testify any clearer that a journey with God is worth taking.

Malinda's book list on for Christians to revive a stalled faith journey

Malinda Fugate Why did Malinda love this book?

If scholars are still trying to completely understand the Bible, how are we supposed to navigate it?

Inspired steps back and takes a look at Scripture, inviting us to ask questions and know it better, from both a spiritual and literary perspective. While I didnā€™t agree with everything the author suggests, everything made me pause and think. Itā€™s a rare book that both challenges and encourages, but this one most certainly does both.

By Rachel Held Evans,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Inspired as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

If the Bible isn't a science book or an instruction manual, what is it? What do people mean when they say the Bible is inspired? When New York Times bestselling author Rachel Held Evans found herself asking these questions, she embarked on a journey to better understand what the Bible is and how it's meant to be read. What she discovered changed her--and it can change you, too.

Evans knows firsthand how a relationship with the Bible can be as real and as complicated as a relationship with a family member or close friend. In Inspired, Evans explores contradictions andā€¦


Book cover of A Matter of Days: Resolving a Creation Controversy

J. Suthern Hicks Author Of Where the Garden Begins

From my list on books that explore Christianity in creative and engaging ways.

Why am I passionate about this?

After discovering Jesus at the age of fourteen, I began reading the King James Version of the Bible. This early modern English version was difficult to understand at first, but it soon became my poetic introduction to a faith that would reveal just how big and wonderful our Creator is. I eventually realized how a correct interpretation of science agreed with a correct interpretation of the Bible. That led me to study apologetics and such topics as how the universe began. As a creative person at heart, having been an actor, songwriter, playwright, and novelist, I am realizing that being made in the image of God means that the possibilities for creativity never end.

J.'s book list on books that explore Christianity in creative and engaging ways

J. Suthern Hicks Why did J. love this book?

I love that the subject of this book is about beginningsā€”THE beginning, in fact. As someone who became a believer at the age of fourteen, I felt secure in my understanding of the Bible and had little need or desire to be challenged on my understanding of controversial Biblical topics.

This is the book that changed all that for me. It introduced me to apologetics. I admire the gentle and noncombative way the astrophysicist author discusses how Genesis can literally describe an earth that is 4.5 billion years old. It was a fascinating exploration of Biblical analysis, Hebrew, and scientific study. I became so much more confident in my understanding of Genesis after reading this book.

By Hugh Ross,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Matter of Days as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

An old-earth view takes on the challenges of young-earth proponents through a study of history, Scripture, and nature-and a testable creation model.


Book cover of If It Causes You to Sin

Parker J. Cole Author Of Dark Cherub

From my list on Christian horror and thrillers.

Why am I passionate about this?

The question I have for Christian authors is this: are we Christian authors or authors who are Christian? The realm of horror is the perfect genre to explore the human condition in all of its depravity. Why do Christians avoid this genre when at the end of the day? I grew up watching horror movies with my grandmother and I enjoy the thrills and chills, the questions the genre asks, and the various ways horror can be depicted. Christians understand the dark forces that underlie our natural world. And we understand the darkness within ourselves. But unlike Hollywood horror, we know what the solution ā€“ Christ. So thatā€™s why this is a passion of mine.

Parker's book list on Christian horror and thrillers

Parker J. Cole Why did Parker love this book?

I first heard the audio dramatization of this book on a podcast call The Untold Podcast, showcasing speculative fiction from Christian authors.

The story is short, telling of our unnamed narrator who is struggling with sin in his life. He reads the Bible verse, if thy hand offend then, cut if off. From there begins his meltdown into wanting to take off his hand because he has done sinful things with it.

What made this one so chilling is the rational outlook of the narrator. Then comes the grisly bits that make you squirm in your chair as you listen. Now, itā€™s in book form and I guarantee you, itā€™s a very good book. Thank God for grace!

By Jess Hanna,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked If It Causes You to Sin as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


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Book cover of The Essence: A Guided Journey of Discovery through the Bible

The Essence by John Pasquet,

The Bible is the greatest mystery novel ever written. It begins in the Old Testament with seemingly random accounts of ancient people in far away places with strange customs. Thereā€™s the prophecy of a coming Hero who will conquer the villain and restore peace to the land. The mystery reachesā€¦

Book cover of Soul Strong: 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life

Maggie Wallem Rowe Author Of This Life We Share: 52 Reflections on Journeying Well with God and Others

From my list on Christian faith-based books on living well with God and others.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am passionate about writing, reading, and recommending books that help people understand how to improve their relationship to God and to others. Verbal advice only goes so far. The wonder of books is that they contain the wisdom of years and lived experience that can encourage and equip readers long after the writers are gone. In addition to being an author of Christian living books, I have a graduate degree in biblical studies as well as decades of experience in adult education, public relations, and ministry to women. I also speak internationally on spiritual living.

Maggie's book list on Christian faith-based books on living well with God and others

Maggie Wallem Rowe Why did Maggie love this book?

This is the ONE book I recommend to younger women who want a mentorā€™s advice on whatā€™s truly most important in life. The author writes from the perspective of a ā€œseasoned sisterā€ who was often asked to share how she was able to raise a large family, work, run a ministry, and write multiple books while at the same time maintaining a vital spiritual relationship with God. 

Lucinda Secrest McDowell gives practical, accessible advice about love, authenticity, prayer, dealing with suffering, sharing oneā€™s story, and much more. I recommend listening to the audio version read in the authorā€™s own voice. This book also works well for book clubs and Bible study groups. 

By Lucinda Secrest McDowell,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Soul Strong as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Do you have the strength of soul you need to live out Godā€™s story for your life? Let award-winning author Lucinda Secrest McDowell show you how to become soul strong! 
How do I know my life makes a difference?  How am I supposed to balance life when it seems I canā€™t catch a break?  How do I move forward spiritually and with purpose?  
The answer to these questions and more is in learning how to live Soul Strong. The journey of faith is truly ā€œa long obedience in the same direction.ā€ Itā€™s a deep commitment and an even deeper empowerment.ā€¦


Book cover of Skios
Book cover of The Queen and I
Book cover of Deaf Sentence

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