Five random books our Catholic team loves

Aug 9, 2019 by

Diane Kern

The biggest excuse for not reading regularly? So many options, so little free time.

This is why the eCatholic team shares book recommendations during our monthly "summit." It also gives team members a chance to reveal nuggets about their interests and character while also building team culture.

We’ve already inspired one another to add to our own shelves at home, and have made it easier for book groups to select their next topic.

Check out a small selection of the books we’ve talked about below. Each one falls into a different style or genre: From spiritual lifestyle, children’s, historical non-fiction, business communication, and even a funny approach to self-help, these recommendations are all over the map. :)

1

The Grace of Enough: Pursuing Less and Living More in a Throwaway Culture

by Haley Stewart (2018)
Popular Catholic blogger Haley Stewart tells the adventures of a time her family decided to sell their house and move to a sustainable farm in Texas. During that year Stewart discovers specific ways to truly live an intentional Christian life that is contrary to the norm of a modern culture. Her captivating story and simple tips are inspiring others to live more fully while breaking the perspective of working more simply to gain more.

“This book actually inspired me to make concrete changes in my life! For example, I replaced a meaningless piece of art in our living room with sacred art: My favorite depiction of the Annunciation. It also inspired me to help my young boys understand the importance of giving to the poor; they regularly take cans of food to the parish pantry.”
- Abbey Nagel, eCatholic Quick Flip Coordinator

2

You Are Mine

by Max Lucado (1997)
This cherished children’s book tells the story of wooden toys who label the traits and flaws of one another using symbols that permanently stick to a person. As one particular toy finds himself always receiving negative labels, he seeks loving affirmation from his creator, the toy maker. By the book’s end, several parallels can be drawn between the story’s plot and real life situations; the wooden people and humans; as well as the toy maker and God. 

“I like that my kids love the book's simple message, and as an adult, I am reminded of God's love for me through the same simplicity.”
- Karen Lackey, Happiness Engineer / Diocesan Assistant

3

Lost in the Cosmos: The Last Self-Help Book

by Walker Percy (1983)
The world seems to offer an infinite number of self-help books, yet people still struggle with understanding the human self. Author Walker Percy addresses this conundrum in a somewhat humorous fashion. The book covers a number of angles for looking at one’s self including the labels and titles we give ourselves. However, even labels - which last for mere moments - eventually lead us back to the unsolved mystery of our self.

“As I read this book, I felt like Walker Percy was reading my mind and expressing my thoughts in a wittier and wiser way than I ever could! He truly sums up all the challenges and complexities of being a Catholic with common sense in the modern age, and he somehow manages to make it hilariously entertaining at the same time.”
- Seton Raynor, CSS Web Developer

4

Bearing False Witness: Debunking Centuries of Anti-Catholic History

by Rodney Stark (2016)
If religious studies is your cup of tea (or you are part-theologian), then you may want to take on this incredibly in-depth look at historical events and intriguing details which have been presented differently throughout time. It may require some note-taking and a couple extra cups of joe to get through the text, but once accomplished you will likely have discovered more about church history and the world of times long past.

“Using a wide array of sociological data and historical facts, the book unveils the slander of false narratives against Catholicism. In doing so, it reinforced the reality that the most powerful weapon against the Truth and Beauty of the Church was simply a lie, and that slander, once dispelled, left no cause for shame as we press on."
- Doug Naaden, Senior Happiness Engineer

5

How to Win Friends and Influence People

by Dale Carnegie (1936)
Despite its rather blunt title, this timeless bestseller has helped people build authentic relationships for decades. Within its chapters are detailed instructions for easily communicating with people through sincerity and intention. A truly win-win process that has positively changed the way millions of people form relationships through communication at work, within their community, or even at home.

“The book gave me a better perspective for leading people. Specifically the seventh principle: 'Give the other person a fine reputation to live up to.' Using an example of a little boy labeled as a trouble-maker, the book explained how his new teacher decided to build him up as soon as she met him. She explained he was a natural leader and she needed his help to make the class the very best it could be. “
- Joe Garcia, CRO / Senior Evangelist

Consider trying this "read-and-tell" activity with your team - together you may all learn about and inspire one another.  And remember, if a book is a religious or spiritual genre, be sure to first check out your local Catholic gift shop before making a purchase. :)