In this series, we highlight books we think our readers may enjoy, written by authors affiliated with the Collegeville Institute.
Animal Heart
Hyperborea Publishing, 2016
by Paul Luikart, 2015 summer writing workshop participant
A cabbie with a booze problem pities a murderer and helps him flee into the desert. A homeless woman teaches a businessman how to dance. A bank robber on the run does the only compassionate thing he’s ever done in his life when he encounters a band of wild horses. A man hunts and kills his romantic rival, then presents the love of his life with a token of his affection. The desk clerk at a fleabag hotel blesses the dead. The short stories in Animal Heart pay attention to raggedy characters in need of redemption—whether they realize it or not.
Love at First Fight
Shiloh Run Press, 2016
by Dena Dyer, 2015 and 2016 writing workshop participant
At some point, most married people find that the endearing qualities that once attracted them to their spouse become a source of stress and conflict instead. By sharing humorous, personal stories from both the male and female perspective, husband and wife writing team Carey and Dena Dyer have crafted an engaging guide for couples, which includes fifty-two conversational meditations. Each meditation begins with scripture, ends with prayer, and includes practical action steps for building resilient marriages. Readers of Love at First Fight can expect this guide to spark new conversation and connection with their partner.
Soul Bare
InterVarsity Press, 2016
edited by Cara Sexton, including essays by Amy Peterson (2014 writing workshop participant) and Karissa Knox Sorrell (2015 writing workshop participant)
Sadly, Christians are often better known for acting like they have it all together than they are for their authenticity and transparency. This collection of vulnerable essays aims to change that. With poignant reflections on some of the most painful and raw moments of life, Christian writers such as Amy Peterson, Karissa Knox Sorrell, Emily P. Freeman, and Sarah Bessey model the kind of honesty that the church rarely sees.
Readers will find the accessible and personal tone of these short reflections makes Soul Bare a perfect book to dip into when craving thoughtful, authentic connection.
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