Preachers Love Books!

So, what’s in your library? You’ve probably got a set of GA Commentaries, if you are over 40 you probably have that massive collection of Pulpit Commentaries. I bet you’ve got Guy N.’s Questions and Answers. You have copy or two of Muscle and A Shovel - at least one was given to you. You have a few sermon outline books. I hope you have a copy of a book written by a Jenkins, dad, Jeff, Philip, Ancil, or me (if not, I can tell you where to get one). You have a collection of Bibles. You’ve got a few church growth books and a shelf of books on Marriage and the Family. It’s likely you have a few that are worth something monetarily. You probably have a couple that were written by friends and some autographed by author releases. Preachers seem to have always loved book.  

I’ve been asked several times over the years to share lists of my most useful books, or to contribute to lists that otter’s are compiling. I enjoy doing that. 

Let me give you a few surprising ones to add:

Alexander and the Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day: Like all of these they are short, simple, and children’s books really, but have powerful and important lessons for adults and, maybe especially those of us in ministry. Alexander learns how to deal with tough days.

The Velveteen Rabbit: This is a classic. Nobody I know becomes more “real” than preachers. If you can make it through this and personalize it without a tear - you are a tough dude!

Oh The Places You’ll Go: Some of you knew this would be on here. If for no other reason the section on The Waiting Place. Man. The good Seuss is spot on. For years I have read this book to graduating seniors and had them sign it. My copy has become pretty special to me. 

Bear, Your Manners Are Showing: In this day of Social Media and public meanness. Melanie read this 1987 release most every night to our toddler sons. LIttle Bear has much to say today and, may I say frankly, I know some preachers who need to sit a copy of this book right UNDER their Bible.

How to Be A Grouch, by Oscar the Grouch: Just saying. Sometimes the best way not to be one is to have someone tell you what one looks like.

What silly book(s) would you add to this list?