I love to read. Last year, I wrote about my favorite books that I read in 2012. As I start the new year, I want to share 5 books I read in 2013 that left a mark on my life. These are books that - if you let them - will leave you a little different.
A beautiful book about music - from Mozart to Bob Dylan to Mitsuka Uchida. This book also has suggested listening for each chapter. This book will make you listen to music in a different way.
2. All In - You are one decision away from a totally different life, by Mark Batterson
This is the sequel to The Circle Maker. As The Circle Maker focuses on prayer, All In focuses on action. It is about "going all in and all out for the All in All." This book will challenge you to live a different way.
3. Dying Out Loud: No Guilt in Life. No Fear in Death. The Story of a Silk Road Nomad, by Shawn Smucker.
I can't remember the last time a book brought me to tears and inspired me so deeply. This past year was difficult for me, but this family's story helped me find meaning, encouragement, and purpose in the midst of difficult circumstances. This book will make you look at suffering and what it means to follow God in a different way.
4. Quiet - The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking, by Susan Cain.
This book is liberating for introverts and eye-opening for everyone. A must read for leaders and ministers. This book will make you look at people a different way.
5. The Musician's Way - A Guide to Practice, Performance, and Wellness, by Gerald Klickstein
Even though this book is targeted to the undergrad or graduate music student, the casual musician or professional can grow from this material. The book has three sections: Artful Practice, Fearless Performance, and Lifelong Creativity. If you are a musician (or singer), this book will make you practice and perform in a different way.
