Ouachita Stories

Books, books, books. Busy schedules and a lack of free time often keep us from finding the time to sit down and enjoy our favorite book. Especially in today’s age, full of technology, picking up a book can seem like a thing of the past. March is National Reading Month, which means it’s the perfect time to clear your schedule and dive into an old favorite or finally pick up that new book you’ve been wanting to read.

Not sure what to read? In honor of National Reading Month, we asked several faculty and staff for their suggestions. Happy reading!

 

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

“This book is an amazing love story and a beautiful illustration of, as the title suggests, redemption.”

– Dr. Kathy Collins, Associate Professor of Education

 

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

“A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is often thought of as a children’s book, but it is really much better read again as an adult. It is a historical novel set in the early 1900s that deals with poverty, exploitation, alcoholism, racism and other serious topics, yet it is a very optimistic and uplifting story.”

– Jeanie Curry, Assistant Professor of Accounting

 

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham

“I’m always surprised so few people have read this charming high seas adventure about Nat Bowditch. The kid that no one thought would survive stuns everyone with his work ethic and courage, inspiring readers to reach beyond their perceived limitations. The twist: it’s a true story about a young man overcoming incredible obstacles and changing the face of science as we know it.

– Tiffany Eurich, Assistant Professor of Communications

 

The Practicing Mind by Thomas M. Sterner

“The author writes about finding joy in the process of achieving – not merely working toward – the goal. Those with ‘practicing minds’ experience patience with themselves, with others and with life itself.”

– Phil Hardin, Assistant to the President for Administration

 

The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Olympics by Daniel James Brown

“An inspirational story about life, struggle, and success during an important era of history.”

– Dr. Scott Jackson, Professor of Christian Ministries and Dr. O.L. and Frances Bayless Chair of Christian Communication

 

Anne of Green Gables (the 8-book series) by L.M. Montgomery

“Though I was an avid reader growing up, I didn’t read the Anne books until I was an adult (a little regret of mine). This is wholesome reading, with good take-away, and that leaves you a better person than you were before you read it.”

– Tracey Knight, Executive Assistant to the President

 

The Eye of the World (Book 1 of the Wheel of Time Series) by Robert Jordan

“This is the start to a classic fantasy book series! The book is a terrific quest story a la Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring, but with a modern twist. The pace is balanced, and the plot includes a host of unique and curious characters. It is a terrific book for readers who like to get lost exploring a new world and prefer the journey over the destination.” 

– Dr. Ryan Lewis, Associate Professor of Music

 

Kingdom Woman: Embracing Your Purpose, Power, and Possibilities by Dr. Tony Evans & Chrystal Evans Hurst

“This book is great for young women to read no matter where they are on their journey in life. Kingdom Woman begins very strong with solid truth to ponder in regards to one’s God-given identity and purpose. I was inspired to step up my faith walk. I trust others will also be blessed and inspired to live the life of a kingdom woman. One of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much is because while Dr. Evans provides his biblical insight and theological input, his daughter, Chrystal, follows with her honest, candid insights into her life including her struggles and successes living a kingdom life. There is also a book for young men titled Kingdom Man: Every Man's Destiny, Every Woman's Dream by Dr. Tony Evans.”

–Nicole Porchia, Director of the Academic Success Center and Multicultural Student Programs

 

Rising Tide by John Barry

“Barry tells the fascinating story of the great Mississippi River flood of 1927, which will seem timely given our weather lately. It’s an accessible account of the science of rivers and man’s attempt to control the massive Mississippi River, but it also envelopes key personalities and the culture of the South in the first half of the 20^th century. If you’ve spent time in eastern Arkansas, western Mississippi or Louisiana, you’ll also recognize many of the locations described.”

– Dr. Jeff Root, Dean of the School of Humanities and Huckabee School of Education

 

Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow and Martha Washington: An American Life by Patricia Brady  

“I enjoy reading non-fiction, especially biographies. Carefully researched and well-written, both books reveal little-known facts about our first president and first lady and analyze how they set the stage for the American experience.”

– Margaret Reed, Periodicals/Electronic Resources Librarian

 

Liturgy of the Ordinary by Tish Harrison Warren 

“This is a great little book on the importance of making our everyday lives centered around God’s presence.”

– Anna Rosenthal, Assistant Director of Campus Ministries

 

The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough

“It was the 1977 best seller. I read it five times.”

– Kaye Stanley, library tech assistant

 

Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders

“Who doesn’t love an inventive author or a good ghost story?”

– Dr. Randall Wight, Dean of the Sutton School of Social Sciences

 

God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater by Kurt Vonnegut

“This novel urges its readers, in ways both vivid and deeply pleasing, to be kind. I can’t imagine a better mission for a book to go on, nor can I imagine anyone completing the mission in more admirable fashion than did Vonnegut in God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater.”

– Dr. Johnny Wink, Betty Burton Peck Professor of English

 

By Stephanie Bell, a senior mass communications major from Stuttgart, Ark.

 

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