Bethany
Ben-Hur (audio dramatized version) by Lew Wallace
This month I’m enjoying the classic story of Ben-Hur as an audio drama, which, unlike an audio book, has a full cast, immersive sound effects, and cinematic music. In other words, it’s like watching a movie while getting to multitask on something else like drawing or cleaning. One of my favorite scenes of this particular audio drama is the chariot race. The epic roar of wheels, crowds, and horses leaves much room for the imagination – you can almost feel the torrent of wind as the racers fly past! Though I personally wish that the forgiveness of Ben-Hur for Masala was a bit more evident, overall the tale is both very entertaining and meaningful. You can learn more about this and discover other exciting audio dramas here: https://www.tyndale.com/stories/best-audio-dramas-based-classic-books-and-original-stories
To read (or listen): Les Misérables (audio dramatized version)
Charlotte
The Montessori Toddler by Simone Davies
While sheltering in place, my little one has transitioned into a full-fledged toddler. It’s been a joy to be with her all day during this season, but with so much change and development, it’s hard to keep up! This book has given be clear and gentle steps to best help my child grow and develop well even while life looks a bit different right now. Following a Montessori structure, The Montessori Toddler makes this kind of learning accessible and achievable in any home. It’s not a to-do list, rather a new way to look at toddler years and to approach them with open arms and not stress or fear.
One of my favorite things about it is the way it begins. Davis reminds parents and educators how wonderful and exciting these years can be. She reminds us how capable, innocent, forgiving, and authentic kids are at this age. I highly recommend this book to all parents, especially those with 1-3-year-olds. One of my favorite things
To read: Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
Christine
The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman
Whether you struggle with making big life decisions or just choosing what’s for dinner, The Next Right Thing will encourage you to gently and thoughtfully approach your decision-making process. Rather than offering a formula or a 12-step plan, author Emily P. Freeman invites us to slow down and get quiet so we can discern what is happening at the soul level. True and honest decisions are not a reaction to outward pressure but an inward response to God’s work in our lives and who he’s calling us to be. Because the book is based on Emily’s podcast by the same name, each chapter stands alone while contributing to the cohesive message. Rather than reading it cover-to-cover, I’ve read a chapter every so often throughout the past year, often finding the words I needed to hear at that precise moment. The Next Right Thing is a beautiful blend of Emily’s lyrical writing, genial voice, and heartfelt wisdom—a welcome and trusted companion to anyone who has ever struggled with decision fatigue.
To read: Your Blue Flame by Jennifer Fulwiler
