Bach Among the Theologians

by Jaroslav Pelikan
 
An in-depth look at J.S. Bach's theological themes found within his many sacred works, especially the Passions and B Minor Mass. Pelikan also gives an overview of the theological shifts occurring in Bach's time in Europe and how Bach's work either reflects those trends or stands in contrast to them. He even delves into different theories of atonement and how those show up in Bach's compositions. The picture painted of Bach is one of a faithful Christian, but one who is more complex than simply an orthodox Lutheran proclaiming the party line. I'd like to take some time to listen intently to some of the Bach works referenced in Pelikan's book, with his commentary in front of me - I think that would give me deeper appreciation for the genius and faith of this greatest of Lutheran composers.

How the Irish Saved Civilization

by Thomas Cahill
 
Subtitled: The Untold Story of Ireland's Heroic Role from the Fall of Rome to the Rise of Medieval Europe - a thoroughly enjoyable overview of European Christianity in the first Millennium. I was already aware of the basic premise, that Celtic monks copying ancient manuscripts saved much of the great works of Roman thinkers, poets and theologians from the destruction of the barbarians demolishing civilization in Europe (the fall of Rome and its aftermath). Cahill's style is both informative and personal. I particularly liked this quote from the very end of the book: "The Romans are the rich and powerful who run things their way and must always accrue more because they instinctively believe that there will never be enough to go around; the catholics, as their name implies, are universalists who instinctively believe that all humanity makes one family, that every human being is an equal child of God, and the God will provide." I've been meaning to read this book for a long while, glad for the recent vacation that gave me the time to do so.

The Tombs of Atuan

by Ursula K Le Guin
 
The second volume in the Earthsea trilogy, quite different from the first because for the most part the action is claustrophobic and dark, literally dark - taking place primarily in underground caverns and tunnels without light. It explores how power can either set free or entrap. A different reading experience from the first book in the series, but enjoyable as well.

A Wizard of Earthsea

By Ursula K. Le Guin

The first in the Earthsea trilogy by this renowned American author. This was a fantasy novel in the form of Tolkien, though written before that genre really became popular. I read some of her science fiction before and thought I would try her fantasy literature on a short holiday. Well written and interesting characters, conflict without warfare or (much) violence. The story felt like a seafaring pilgrimage tale reminiscent of the voyage of Saint Brendan. An enjoyable read, looking forward to reading the next volume in the series. 

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity

by Nabeel Qureshi

I first heard of Mr. Qureshi through an online appeal to pray for his recovery of health. Sadly he passed away shortly afterwards. The internet reports of this seeker of truth captured my attention enough to get his book. In some ways this book taught me more about the Muslim religion and culture than any other source I’ve read to date. It helped me understand many things that I was unclear about, including why the Trinity is an offensive concept for Muslims and the role of Shame/Honour in much of the Islamic world. It also emphasized apologetics as a tool for evangelization, though not without friendship as a platform first. 

A Wind in the Door

by Madeleine L’Engle

The second second in the quartet of novels about the Murray family, a sequel to A Wrinkle in Time. Creative and inventive, spiritual and scientific speculation. The cherubim character is worth the read alone. I can’t see this one being made into a movie like the first book, I’m not sure how a lot of this material could be visualized. Same message in the end, love conquers evil.

Dark Age Ahead

by Jane Jacobs
 
Though written a decade and a half ago there is much in this volume that seems current. Jacobs warns against the loss of knowledge and expertise, leading to a mass amnesia - or dark age. Sometimes it felt like it was just a pile of complaints about the way our current society is functioning (or not functioning more accurately), but other times there was astute insight, and some ideas about how to reverse these negative trends.