5 Books to Inspire and Change

Every year I track and document the books I read. My favorite end-of-year activity has been to review those books and identify the ones that had the most impact on my life.

Here are the five books of greatest impact that I read in 2020:

We: Understanding the Psychology of Romantic Love, by Robert Johnson.

This book taught me how to understand and practice romantic love. I never fully comprehended the idea of romantic “chemistry”. However, Robert Johnson’s use of myth and its application to masculine romance provided a clear picture of what romantic love is and looks like.

Homecoming: Reclaiming and Championing Your Inner Child, by John Bradshaw

This book identifies the fact that we all have an inner child. Our inner child plays a major factor in how we interact throughout our life and in adult relationships. Bradshaw not only identifies the inner child, but provides tools for healing of the damaged child. This book provide insight into myself, and also influenced change in the way that I parent my own children.

The Plain Guide to Universalism, by Thomas Whittemore

For many years I viewed God as Judge. When I had my own child, I suddenly saw God as Father. This view of God changes everything. Understanding that God wills that all should have eternal life, rather than some or certain people, changes everything!

Sons of the Pope, by Daniel O’Connor

A coming of age mafia tale that takes place in Brooklyn. An engaging story that vividly portrays the large impact that even small choices an make.

A Red Death, by Walter Mosley

Why have I never read Mosley till now? I don’t know the answer to that, but I am glad that I found him. Through the entertaining and fast moving investigations of Easy Rawlins, Mosely shares insights into race relations of a past era (but, very much applicable to today).

What will you read that may change your life or your mind in 2021?