Biographies. If you’re searching for an inspiring real-life read, they are the perfect solution. Thankfully, there have been some truly incredible new biographies and memoirs hit the market this season, giving us no end of options! Our editors have rounded up some of their favorite new releases – from a biography about the role faith has played in Dolly Parton’s life and career to an illuminating look at the life of the saint, Paul.
Happy reading all!
I Can Only Imagine: A Memoir by Bart Millard
From the lead singer of the chart-topping Christian band MercyMe comes a compelling memoir of love, loss, and family. In I Can Only Imagine, you’ll go behind the scenes of Bart’s life to discover how God repaired a broken family, and wrote the words on his heart that would change Millard’s life forever. You’ll be moved by the story behind the hit song as Millard reflects on the loss of his father to cancer and shares his own testimony of growing up in a once-abusive family transformed by Jesus.
The Faith of Dolly Parton by Dudley Delffs
Iconic superstar Dolly Parton has never been shy about the driving force behind her success – “A belief in God is essential,” she says. Now, award-winning writer, Dudley Delffs shines a light on ten faith lessons that can be evidenced in Dolly’s life, music, interviews, and attitude. The Faith of Dolly Parton focuses on the ways Dolly’s life can inspire us all to be more authentic, to trust God in the hard times, and stay grounded during the good. This book will surely delight all Dolly Parton and country music fans!
Through My Father’s Eyes by Franklin Graham
Many have written about Billy Graham, the evangelist – but this is the first book about Billy Graham, the father, written from the perspective of a son who knew him best. In Through My Father’s Eyes, Franklin Graham delves into the lessons his father taught him through the years. Readers will also be privy to 24 pages of personal family photos as well as never-before-shared family stories rich with history. An amazing read that will give so much insight into the life of this good and faithful servant.
I Will Not Fear by Melba Pattillo Beals
In 1957, Melba Beals was one of the nine African American students chosen to integrate Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. In I Will Not Fear, Beals takes readers on an unforgettable journey through terror, oppression, and prosecution. Beals shows how the deep faith we develop during our most difficult moments, is the kind of faith that can truly bring about change. Readers will find Beals’ story provides so much hope that faith is the solution to the pervasive hopelessness of our current culture.
Paul, A Biography by N.T. Wright
For centuries Paul has been one of the church’s most widely cited saints due to his influence regarding the formation of Christian theology that has changed the world. However, in this compelling modern biography, N.T. Wright devotes his attention to the all too often overlooked essence of Paul’s life itself – specifically illuminating the human and intellectual drama that shaped him – and the unlikelihood of what he accomplished. Paul: A Biography provides an accessible look at the man himself, allowing for greater clarity when it comes to Paul’s thoughts and writings, and enabling us to see the man and his theology in a fresh new light.
Capital Gaines: The Smart Things I’ve Learned by Doing Stupid Stuff by Chip Gaines
The extremely talented Chip Gaines is well-known to millions as a TV star, renovation expert, husband to Joanna, and father of four in Waco, Texas. But long before the world knew him, Chip was a serial entrepreneur always ready for a challenge, even if it didn’t quite work out as planned. Capital Gaines offers readers a ringside seat as Chip relives some of his craziest antics and the lessons he learned along the way. This is the ideal read for anyone looking to succeed – not only in business, but in life.
Once Upon a Farm: Lessons on Growing Love, Life, and Hope on 7 Acres or Less by Rory Feek
Continuing the narrative begun in his last book, This Life I Live, Rory Feek offers a heartfelt memoir with glimpses into his family’s love story. Now raising his 3-year-old daughter, Indiana, alone after Joey’s passing, Rory digs deep into the soil of his late wife’s legacy and his own experiences, sharing the secrets of how their Tennessee farm produces life and hope. Readers will surely be inspired by Once Upon A Farm – it is a raw and vulnerable book that offers readers an insight into an extraordinary man.
Can’t Nothing Bring Me Down: Chasing Myself in the Race Against Time by Ida Keeling
Known as Miss Ida throughout her Bronx community, Ida Keeling isn’t your typical athlete. Her fierce independence propelled her through the Great Depression, homelessness as a single mother, and the civil rights movement. But when Ida’s two sons were brutally murdered, she faced her greatest trial yet. At age 67, she laced up her first pair of running shoes to chase the sorrow from her heart. Now 102, Ida is a world-record-holding runner who is still on the track. In Can’t Nothing Bring Me Down, Ida offers truths and stories from a life devoted to Jesus – you’ll surely be inspired to chase your own dreams after reading!
A Prairie Girl’s Faith: The Spiritual Legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Stephen W. Hines
This one is for all you fans of the “Little House” series of books! A Prairie Girl’s Faith invites readers to get to know the beloved author as not only one of America’s great pioneer storytellers, but as a woman of vibrant faith. It provides a real in-depth discussion of her Christian faith and relationship with God, as well as the endurance and courage of the entire family that enable them to survive the harsh frontier life. Included in the book is a section of authentic recipes to try out at home – all adapted with modern measurements and oven cooking times, of course!
The Audacious Molly Bruno: Amazing Stories from the Life of a Powerful Woman of Prayer by Marie Armenia
Now, you might not know Molly Bruno by name, but you almost certainly know about the character she came to inspire! The Audacious Molly Bruno introduces readers to the real prayer warrior who inspired the beloved character of “Miss Clara” in the hit film War Room. Written by Molly’s daughter, this holy and hilarious account is more than a memoir – it’s an inspiring mentoring resource for all women who desperately long for wisdom of such a courageous intercessor. You’ll finish the book with more knowledge on how to pray boldly, with audacity always believing that nothing is impossible for God!
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