"The kind of food our minds devour will determine the kind of person we become." John Stott

"We should read to have fellowship with great minds. Through books we hold communion with the greatest spiritual leaders of the ages." Oswald Sanders

Favorite Biographies:

An Arrow Pointing to Heaven (Rich Mullins Biography) by James Bryan Smith Helps us to see how counter culture Rich truly lived his life. I learned a great deal about humility, authenticity and countering materialism by reading about Rich Mullin's life. Click here for Book Notes

It's Not About The Bike --Biography of Lance Armstrong Armstrong might be the single most disciplined person I have ever read about.. I was completely inspired and fascinated by this incredibly story of courage and determination to overcome cancer and move on to win four Tour de France events in a row.

Joni by Joni Eareckson Tada The best autobiography I have ever read. Joni is a paralyzed from the neck down and learned how to have a great attitude about her situation. She is a fired up Christian and makes a huge impact on thousands of lives every year. Her story is remarkable.

Endurance by Alfred Lansing Biography about the 1914 voyage of Ernest Shackleton and his crew--the first to cross the Antarctic overland. If you like thrilling adventure biographies you will love this one. Here's a good clip from the book... "Men wanted for dangerous journey: low wages, bitter cold...safe return doubtful." With a flier bearing these enticing words, Shackleton recruited 27 enthusiastic seamen and explorers, built a ship and set sail to the bottom of the world.

The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence Dedicated his life to practicing a state of continual conversation with God. Click here for Book Notes

Born Again by Chuck Colson The second best autobiography I have ever read. The story of Chuck's involvement in Watergate and his conversion to Christianity. Chuck Colson is one of the greatest thinkers in the Christian Church today. Check out his site @ www.breakpoint.org

In Jesus' Name by Henri Nouwen Autobiography about Nouwen's journey from being an esteemed professor at Harvard to becoming a helper at Daybreak (a community for the mentally handicapped). Nouwen's life is a story of humility lived out in real life. Click here for Book Notes

Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot Excellent biography about the life of Jim Elliot and his fellow missionaries. If you like adventure thrillers, you will love this amazing story. "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot

Peace Child by Don Richardson Similar to the above book. Missionary journey to bring the gospel to a group of cannibals in New Guinea. Incredible story.

Practicing His Presence by Brother Lawrence and Frank Laubach Wonderful book about two men who pursued a goal of living in a constant state of prayer all day every day. The book gives a diary account of the daily progress toward that goal and the benefits of living in the state.

Paul by Charles Swindoll "I know of no other person in the Bible, aside from Christ himself, who had a more profound influence on his world and ours than Paul." Click here for Book Notes

The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom Wonderful autobiography about how Corrie and her family provided a safe haven for Jews during World War II. This book really helps you to put life's troubles in proper perspective.

John Adams by David McCullough I never realized how influential John Adams was in shaping our independence until I read this wonderful biography.

Just As I Am by Billy Graham I really enjoyed learning about all of his relationships with the Presidents. Billy is truly a great model for all of us in regards to integrity, character and influence.

When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan Tremendous biography about Ronald Reagan. Insights about Reagan's character and leadership. He meant what he said and said what he meant. Continually backed up his words with actions.

The Right Man by David Frum Terrific biography about George W. Bush. Points how much George W transformed when he gave his life to Christ. The man is all about self-discipline and integrity. I have a ton of respect for Bush as our leader.

Heroes Among Us by Jim Ryun Excellent book about Christian heroes like Wilberforce, CT Studd, etc.

Into the Wild by John Krakauer Great book about the life of Christopher McCandless: a 24 year old who leaves behind a well to do lifestyle to live off the land in Alaska . He lasted only 4 months before he died. The book is an account of his journey.

Wooden by John Wooden with Steve Jamison Good book filled with Coach Wooden's favorite maxims. The man is a genius when it comes to leadership. I was amazed by his attention to the smallest details. Click here for Book Notes

The Faith of George W. Bush by Stephen Mansfield Being a huge George W fan I thought this was a pretty good read. George W has made a real life transformation since about age 40...extremely fascinating.

Let's Roll by Lisa Beamer Story of the life of Todd Beamer who was one of the heroes on the United flight on 9/11. Inspiring book about a guy who lived his faith to the very end.

Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis "The Shape of My Early Life". Good book where Lewis tells the story of his conversion to Christianity.

The Reluctant Saint by Donald Spoto Excellent biography about the life of St. Francis of Assisi. An extraodinary story of life transformation.