Monday, September 12, 2022, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
RLC Reads is back with an exciting collection of books to read and discuss during the following months. As usual, anyone and everyone is welcome to join us in discussion and conversation on the dates listed. You can choose to read only one of the books or all of them or any number in between. If you don't finish a book, join us anyway...You probably won't be the only one who hasn't had time to read the whole thing, and there won't be a test! We try to create a fun and relaxing atmosphere of camaraderie. We'll meet in the Upper Lobby area between the church office and the church library at 7:00 PM on the dates listed, so it's easiest to use the north parking lot. All we ask is to email Bob Bergstrom a week or so in advance of the discussion date so we know how many readers to expect, and if you ever have any questions, feel free to contact Bob anytime at .
September 12
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
This best-selling memoir appeared on at least seven major publications’ “Best Books Lists” of 2016 when it was published. One stellar review says it “sparkles with funny stories…and (Noah’s) candid and compassionate essays deepen our perception of the complexities of race, gender, and class.” Whether or not you think you know him from his TV show, you’ll learn to appreciate his life journey when you read this book. (Recommended by Bruce and Janet Robb, 285 pages, 2016)
October 10
His Truth is Marching On: John Lewis and the Power of Hope by Jon Meacham
Not a full biography, but a tender portrait of John Lewis and his life-long struggle for civil rights. His Christian faith and belief in good work and good trouble are obvious in this inspiring book, named one of the Best Books of 2021 by the Washington Post and a New York Times bestseller. (Recommended by Linda Hanson, 368 pages, 2021)
November 14
Lawn Boy by Jonathan Evison
Described as a funny, biting, touching, and ultimately inspiring novel, the author takes the reader into the heart and mind of a young man in search of the American dream who is trying to find himself. Although this book is often listed on many “banned book” lists and may offend some readers with its frank language, the Washington Post calls it “an effervescent novel of hope that can enlighten everyone.” Read it for yourself and decide what you think! (Recommended by Nancy Olson, 336 pages, 2019)
December
No December book…Merry Christmas! (The January book is a long one, so get started on that one as soon as you can.)
January 9
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Spanning just ten days and told from multiple points of view, this well-crafted novel takes the reader on a cross-country journey to remember. It’s set in the U.S. in 1954, and the author creates unforgettable characters that teach us all some life lessons along the way. Chosen by several notable critics as the 2021 Book of the Year, this wildly entertaining story is predicted to become a classic. Don’t let the length deter you. You’ll finish it much faster than you think you will because you won’t be able to put it down! (Recommended by Jan Abel and Erik Wolhowe, 576 pages, 2021)
February 13
The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson
This is a moving story of four memorable Native American women whose voices are deftly woven together by the Minnesota Dakota author into a beautiful story of reawakening and the importance of the seeds we plant and our connections to our ancestors. This novel was chosen as a “Best Book” of 2021 by several outlets and also one of the books RLC’s ONAM committee chose to offer to the congregation for meaningful reading this past spring. (Recommended by Nancy Olson, 392 pages, 2021)
March 13
Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt by Arthur C. Brooks
The author is a noted social scientist who wants us to realize that abuse and outrage are not the right formula for lasting success. David Axelrod says that “Brooks reminds us that we can disagree without being disagreeable, and that everyday citizens have the power to bring our country back together.” And Deepak Chopra describes this book as “a practical prescription that could lead to a more peaceful, just, sustainable, and healthier world.” Sounds like we can all learn from it! (Recommended by Heidi Larson, 256 pages, 2019)
April 17
Accidental Saints: Finding God in All the Wrong People by Nadia Bolz Weber
(Note: Easter is April 9, so we’re meeting April 17, which is the 3rd Monday of the month). The author is a tattooed Lutheran pastor who often uses the F-word. She’s honest about her shortcomings as she brings Christ to the unloved and offers hope to sinners. Her brutally honest book is filled with deep thoughts, inspiration, humor, and a resounding message of grace and imperfection. (Recommended by Nancy Olson, 224 pages, 2016)
May 15
Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman
(Note: Because we met on the 3rd Monday of April, we’ll also meet on the 3rd Monday of May). If you were moved by her poem, “The Hill We Climb” that she read at President Biden’s inauguration (which is also included in this book), you’ll enjoy the thoughtful collection of new poetry by this talented young woman, which instantly became a bestseller in 2021. Using various styles and structures, the poet reflects on the pandemic and uses her activist spirit to help us all heal. She brings insight to every topic and uses her graceful facility with language to form a voice for the future. Even if you’re not a poetry fan, you’ll be impressed by this young lady’s genius. (Recommended by Bob Bergstrom, 211 pages, 2021)