Articles
Welcome to where the book lovers are
The Essential Devotions
These three short articles describe what The Book Devotions is all about.
Reading is not a guilty pleasure
Why do you feel so guilty for taking time to read books? Let’s release the guilt and embrace the gift.
Is reading books good for you?
Or is it a time-waster that detracts from your spiritual walk?
Why the world needs readers (like you)
Is being a reader that important in the big scheme of things? YES, it is. Discover why the world needs readers now more than ever.
Rediscover your love of reading
Been in a reading slump, my friend? Everything you need to love reading again is just a click away. This is a step-by-step journey that leads you back to your book-self, even if you’re starting from zero!
Revel in all the bookish things…
I’m in the process of writing the best articles I can for you. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Suggest a topic, and I’ll write it up as best I can!
Book Reviews for January 2023
Here’s what I read in January 2023. One stellar memoir. A nostalgic new middle-grade novel. Loads of children’s books.
Papa Panov’s Special Christmas Read-Along
Read the short story Papa Panov’s Special Christmas, written by Ruben Salliens and translated by Leo Tolstoy. Or listen to me narrate the story to you on audio.
Your Year in Books 2022
Here’s how to take a snapshot of your Year in Books. I’ll show you mine for 2022, and you can use it as a template to map your best-loved reads of the year.
Book Reviews for Winter 2022
Here are my book reviews for winter 2022. Lots of five-star books this month, including two atmospheric literary novels and (probably) the best motherhood book I’ve ever read.
Christmas at Red Butte Read-Along
Join us for a festive holiday read-along of “Christmas at Red Butte,” a charming short story by L. M. Montgomery. Great for homeschool literature and book club-style discussions.
Anne of Green Gables Gifts to Delight Kindred Spirits
Want to find just the right gift for the kindred spirit in your life? These Anne of Green Gables gifts are perfect for fans of the beloved novels.
Jane Austen Gifts That Ardent Admirers Will Adore
Find the perfect Jane Austen gifts for every type of fan. Regency romantic? Witty ironic? This Austentatious gift guide has you covered.
Book Reviews for September 2022
Here are my book reviews for September 2022. This month, I’m sharing a celeb book club pick that I actually enjoyed, plus the audiobook to rule them all.
Book Reviews for August 2022
My 5-star book reviews for August 2022 include the latest Amor Towles and Andy Weir, plus several children’s award-winners.
Book Reviews for July 2022
My book reviews for July 2022 include a Regency romance, deep Christian nonfiction, and two major DNFs.
Book Reviews for June 2022
Book reviews for June 2022 are in! One divine classic, plus several cozy romances, and some literary novels that gave me mixed feelings.
Looking for authors similar to Jane Austen? Here are 8 to get you started
Jane Austen is in a class by herself. But, if you’ve devoured all her novels and want more, here are seven authors similar to Jane Austen that die-hard fans will love.
28 best mystery audiobooks that’ll keep you guessing (and gasping)
Huzzah for mysteries! They’re even better in the hands of a talented narrator. This list of best mystery audiobooks has a bit of everything, from classics to cozy plots to gritty thrills.
Best books for the nursery that baby AND mom will love
What are the best books for the nursery? I’ve got you covered with my family’s most loved, most requested picture books that will stand the test of time (and a thousand rereads).
Book Reviews for May 2022
Here are my book reviews for May 2022, including two great nonfiction titles, a slow-burn romance and a totally unexpected children’s classic.
Book Reviews for April 2022
My book reviews for April 2022. Lots of great fiction, children’s stories, and one motherhood book.
20 Best books to read in springtime
Here’s my go-to list of books to read in spring, when you’re craving something bright, warm and active.
Read to relax (here’s why it works)
I read to relax and destress, and I bet you do, too. But WHY is reading so relaxing? Here’s why books are your fast track to R&R.
Let’s lose ourselves in books!
Losing yourself in a book is more than just enjoying a bit of entertainment. It’s sanctifying to your soul. Here’s why.
Book reviews for March 2022
My book reviews for March 2022. I read middle-grade, historical romance, and mommy encouragement.
10 Easy Patterns to Knit and Crochet While Listening to Audiobooks
Audiobooks and yarn go together like rama lama ding dong. Here are my favorite EASY patterns to knit and crochet while listening to audiobooks.
Minimalist reading tracker template (free printable)
Need a free, printable reading tracker template? Here’s a bundle of 7 that you can download and use right now for free.
9 Charlotte Mason Podcasts for Homeschooling Encouragement in 2022
There is a Charlotte Mason podcast to support you in every stage of your homeschool journey. Here are a few of my faves!
Best books to get lost in (the immersive and unputdownable)
When life gets crazy, there’s nothing like a book to sweep you away. Here are the best books to get lost in.
55 Reading journal prompts that work for ANY book (fun & easy)
Grab your favorite pen! Here are my best reading journal prompts for adults, kids, and even book clubs.
List of period dramas based on gorgeous novels
Here’s the ultimate list of period dramas based on beautiful novels. They’ll inspire you to devour more books—especially those rich, romantic classics you’ve been meaning to read.
Why the world needs readers (like you)
Is being a reader that important in the big scheme of things? Actually, YES, it is. Discover why the world needs readers now more than ever.
How to listen to an audiobook for free (right now, legally)
Audiobooks are pricey. But you can listen to an audiobook for free—right now AND on the up-n-up. Here’s how.
Redeeming Love Movie Review (by a longtime fan of the book)
What do fans of the classic, Christian romance novel think of the movie? Here’s my Redeeming Love movie and book review.
The best way to listen to an audiobook (so you enjoy it)
Here’s the best way to listen to an audiobook—so that you actually enjoy the experience. Discover why so many people LOVE books on audio.
Best books to get back into reading after a major slump
Been a while since your last page-turner? Here are the best books to get back into reading after a long literary lull.
How can you tell if a book is good?
Is this book any good? It seems like it should be an easy question to answer. Here’s a simple way to figure it out for yourself.
Is reading books good for you?
Is reading books good for you? Or is it a time-waster that detracts from your spiritual walk?
Reading is not a guilty pleasure
Why do you feel so guilty for taking time to read books? Let’s release the guilt and embrace the gift.
Get back into reading books again (and LOVE it!)
“I used to love reading, but somewhere along the way, I stopped. I want to read more like I used to, but I don’t even know where to start. Help me rekindle the spark!”
What was THE book that made you a reader?
You’ve been a reader for as long as you can remember. Now think back. Way, way back. When did it start for you? Can you remember a specific book that lit the first flame?