Summer is for slowing down. It is the perfect time to tackle that book you've been meaning to read. Here are our top picks for 2026.
1. Fiction: Kristin Lavransdatter (Sigrid Undset)
Genre: Historical Fiction / Epic Why: Nobel Prize winner. Set in medieval Norway. It follows the life of Kristin — her sins, her motherhood, her redemption. It is the most "Catholic" novel ever written. Warning: You will cry.
2. Spirituality: The Introduction to the Devout Life (St. Francis de Sales)
Genre: Classic Why: Written specifically for lay people living in the world (not monks). Short chapters. Perfect for reading 10 minutes a day by the pool.
3. Biography: With God in Russia (Fr. Walter Ciszek)
Genre: Thriller / Memoir Why: An American Jesuit spy captured by the Soviets and sent to the Siberian Gulag for 23 years. A gripping story of faith under pressure.
4. Modern: StrangeGods (Elizabeth Scalia)
Genre: Cultural Commentary Why: An analysis of the idols we worship today (politics, technology, coolness). Very relevant for 2026.
5. Classic: Brideshead Revisited (Evelyn Waugh)
Genre: Literary Fiction Why: A story of a broken, wealthy British family and the "twitch upon the thread" of God's grace that pulls them back before the end.
Reading good books is prayer. Find more recommendations and book clubs on the MyPrayerTower app.
A Prayer for Grace
As you reflect on these spiritual truths, we invite you to join us in this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, we thank You for the wisdom of the Church and the witness of the saints. Grant us the grace to live out our faith with joy and perseverance. May our prayers be a sweet incense rising to Your throne, and may Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen."
Deepen Your Spiritual Journey
If you found this reflection helpful, we invite you to explore more ways to strengthen your faith with MyPrayerTower:
- Join our Prayer Wall: Share your intentions and pray for others in our global community.
- Light a Virtual Candle: Offer a symbolic light for your loved ones or special intentions.
- Get the MyPrayerTower App: The full spiritual experience on your Android device.
- Chat with our Telegram Bot: Get daily readings, saint stories, and prayer reminders directly on Telegram.
May God bless you and keep you always in His grace.