A diverse range of nonfiction and fiction books offer readers insights into Jewish identity, feminist spirituality, healing from trauma, and stories of resilience and hope.
As the year draws to a close, November brings a fresh wave of thought-provoking books that delve into the complexities of identity, spirituality, and resilience. From examining the collective identity of Jewish people to exploring the spiritual vision of feminist scholar bell hooks, these new releases offer readers a chance to reflect, learn, and find inspiration. In the realm of fiction, stories of Southern hardship, personal growth, and the resilience of individuals during World War II take center stage. Let’s dive into the highlights of these upcoming releases and discover the diverse perspectives they offer.
Nonfiction:
Assessing the Collective Identity of Jewish People
In “Who Are the Jews—and Who Can We Become?” Donniel Hartman, the president of the Shalom Hartman Institute, takes on the challenge of understanding the collective identity of Jewish people in a time of denominational tribalism. With unprecedented divisions within the Jewish community, Hartman offers a thought-provoking analysis that calls for a core identity rooted in shared values and a commitment to dialogue.
Exploring the Spiritual Philosophy of bell hooks
Nadra Nittle’s “bell hooks’ Spiritual Vision: Buddhist, Christian, and Feminist” delves into the spiritual philosophy of renowned feminist scholar bell hooks. Nittle explores the links between hooks’ spirituality, politics, and social change, shedding light on the transformative power of spiritual beliefs in promoting justice and equality.
Healing from Sexual Trauma and Embracing Grace
Julia Feder’s “Incarnating Grace: A Theology of Healing from Sexual Trauma” confronts the church’s failure in adequately addressing the needs of sexual abuse survivors. Feder argues that the glorification of suffering has hindered the healing process and proposes a path towards recovery through the Christian virtues of courage and hope.
Unveiling the Life of Lowell L. Bennion
George B. Handley’s “Lowell L. Bennion: A Mormon Educator” offers readers a glimpse into the life and thought of Lowell L. Bennion, a prominent 20th-century theologian from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Handley’s insightful biography paints a portrait of a man dedicated to education, service, and the pursuit of social justice.
Confronting Envy and Embracing Christian Worship
In “Envy: A Big Problem You Didn’t Know You Had,” Mike Fabarez tackles the destructive nature of envy and its impact on personal well-being and relationships. Through the lens of Christian worship, Fabarez provides practical guidance on how readers can combat envy and find contentment in their lives.
Releasing Control and Trusting in God’s Providence
Michael McAfee and Lauren Green McAfee’s “Beyond Our Control: Let Go of Unmet Expectations, Overcome Anxiety, and Discover Intimacy with God” draws from the authors’ personal experiences with infertility, illness, and loss. The book encourages readers to release control and trust in God’s providence, finding intimacy and peace in surrendering to His plans.
Hungarian Myth, Magic, and Folklore
Margit Tóth’s “Mágia: Hungarian Myth, Magic, and Folklore” takes readers on a captivating journey into Hungarian paganism. From the history and rituals to divination and healing magic, Tóth’s exploration of Hungarian folklore offers a fascinating glimpse into a rich cultural heritage.
Navigating Cancer with Faith and Resilience
Katy Bowser Hutson’s “Now I Lay Me Down to Fight: A Poet Writes Her Way Through Cancer” is a poignant memoir that chronicles the author’s battle with breast cancer. Hutson shares her experiences with chemotherapy, radiation, and a mastectomy, revealing how her faith provided solace and strength during her toughest moments.
Rethinking Policing and Embracing Servant Leadership
In “Rethinking the Police: An Officer’s Confession and Pathway to Reform,” Daniel Reinhardt, a former Ohio cop, reflects on his journey of understanding systemic police brutality and racism. Reinhardt proposes an alternative policing model rooted in a culture of servant leadership, offering a path towards reform and justice.
Tracing Political Theology and Islam
Paul L. Heck’s “Political Theology and Islam: From the Birth of Empire to the Modern State” delves into the notions of Islamic sovereignty throughout history. Heck traces the complex relationship between political rulers and religious leaders, shedding light on the ongoing struggle for power and authority.
Fiction:
Southern Hardship and Personal Growth
“A Million Little Choices” by Tamera Alexander is a Southern historical novel that follows two women living in the same house but in different centuries. Through their intertwined stories, Alexander explores themes of hardship, resilience, and personal growth.
Finding Hope After Tragedy
Angela Hunt’s “What a Wave Must Be” introduces readers to seventeen-year-old Maddie Hunt, who grapples with the aftermath of her father’s suicide. As she moves in with her grandparents, Maddie embarks on a journey of healing and self-discovery, searching for hope amidst tragedy.
Secrets and Resilience During World War II
“The Warsaw Sisters: A Novel of WWII Poland” by Amanda Barratt follows the lives of sisters Antonina and Helena Dąbrowska during the tumultuous times of World War II. Forced to keep secrets that threaten to tear them apart, the sisters display remarkable resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
Seeking Peace and Embracing Second Chances
Shelley Shepard Gray’s “Her Secret Hope” introduces Lilly, a woman in search of peace and a fresh start. However, her plans are disrupted when someone from her hometown forces her to confront her past and reconsider her future. Gray’s novel explores themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the power of community.
Conclusion:
The new books publishing in November offer readers a diverse range of perspectives, from exploring Jewish identity to delving into feminist spirituality and the journey of healing from trauma. These nonfiction releases challenge readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values, while the fiction releases transport them to different worlds, showcasing resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Whether it’s seeking a deeper understanding of one’s identity or finding solace and inspiration in stories of personal growth, these books provide an opportunity for readers to engage with thought-provoking ideas and narratives.
Leave a Reply