On New Years Eve my husband and I have two traditions. We start by opening up our memory jar, full of the funny, heartwarming, and surprising moments we’ve scribbled down throughout the year. Once we have read them all, we pour ourselves a drink, take out a notebook, and write out some specific goals for the new year.
One of my goals every year is to read at least 20 books.
I rate all of my books on a scale from 1 – 5, based on how much I got out of the book and how likely I am to recommend it to somebody else.
These books have shifted my perspective and influenced my mindset, habits, and aspirations. My top 6 books are my favorites from the year. This year, all of my favorites are personal NOT business, but some have impacted both! In 2025 I only read two business books, which is a huge change for me. You can see that I did a deep dive into non fiction stories and health books. I can get a bit obsessive when I find a topic that I am interested in.
For a complete list of all of the books I have read over 2025 and how I ranked them, scroll all the way down. For the last 5 years’ lists check out 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020. The farther back you go, the more business books you will find!
May the pages of your next book be filled with inspiration and growth. Happy reading!
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1. Kisses from Katie by Katie Davis
[Personal] 5/5
This memoir is a powerful testimony of radical obedience and selfless love. Katie Davis shares her journey of leaving behind a comfortable life to serve vulnerable children in Uganda, ultimately becoming a mother to many who had none.
Her story challenged me to rethink what faith in action truly looks like. It’s inspiring, humbling, and a reminder that ordinary people can live extraordinarily impactful lives when they say yes.
2. A Higher Call by Adam Makos
[Personal] 5/5
This book tells the remarkable true story of honor, mercy, and humanity in the midst of war. Through the intertwined lives of two WWII pilots—one American, one German—Makos shows how compassion can transcend enemy lines.
It deeply moved me and reframed how I think about courage and character. This story proves that even in the darkest moments, integrity and kindness still matter.
3. The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe
[Personal] 5/5
This classic explores the courage, ego, and ambition behind America’s early space program, spotlighting the test pilots and astronauts who pushed the limits of human endurance. Tom Wolfe brings the era to life with sharp storytelling and humor.
I found this book hilariously written.
4. End of the Spear by Steve Saint
[Personal] 5/5
This gripping story of forgiveness and reconciliation recounts the aftermath of the murder of missionaries by the Waodani tribe in Ecuador. Told by the son of one of the missionaries, it reveals how love overcame violence.
The message of grace in this book is unforgettable. It challenged me to think about forgiveness on a deeper, more radical level.
5. Gut Check by Dr. Steven Gundry
[Personal] 5/5
This book dives into the connection between gut health and overall well-being, explaining how modern diets impact inflammation, energy, and disease. Gundry offers practical dietary shifts to restore balance from the inside out.
This is the missing link that finally made me understand why I have food sensitivities and why it seems to be getting worse. I truly think this book changed my life!
6. Fast Like a Girl by Dr. Mindy Pelz
[Personal] 5/5
Dr. Mindy Pelz reframes fasting through a female-focused lens, emphasizing the role hormones play in health, energy, and metabolism. She offers a flexible approach tailored to women’s cycles and seasons of life.
This book was eye-opening and empowering. It helped me approach fasting with more awareness, balance, and grace instead of restriction.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As I reflect on this year’s reading journey, I’m so grateful for the ways these books have influenced me. I once heard a quote that said “You will be the same person in five years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.'” and I think that is true!
Here’s to another year of transformative reading in 2026. What’s on your list? Let me know your recommendations!
Happy reading!
All 20 Books I read this year:
Kisses From Katie 5/5
Hillbilly Elegy 5/5
Safe All Along 5/5
Daring to Hope 4/5
Wild 3/5
3 Feet From Gold 2/5
Money Habits 3/5
God’s Smuggler 5/5
Under the Scarlett Sky 5/5
Secret Believers 4/5
End of the Spear 5/5
Through Gates of Splendor 4/5
Higher Call 5/5
Dared to call him Father 4/5
The Right Stuff 5/5
The Plant Paradox 4/5
Gut Check 5/5
Fast Like a Girl 5/5
Menopause Reset 4/5
Eat Like a Girl 4/5
Grain Brain 4/5
