Summer often gives us a chance to slow down a bit—whether that means family vacations, time by the pool, quiet mornings with coffee, or simply a different rhythm of life. It can also be a great season to pick up a book that inspires us, challenges us, or helps us grow in our faith. Our Regnum Christi New York Tri-State team wanted to share a few books that have impacted us personally and that we think are worth adding to your summer reading list. We hope you find something here that encourages you and becomes a meaningful companion for your summer journey.
Add Theo of Golden by Allen Levi to your Summer Reading List!
This fun and easy to read novel follows the enigmatic yet kindly actions of Theo, an elderly Portuguese man who arrives in the southern town of Golden and discovers 92 pencil portraits displayed at a local coffee shop. He embarks on a mission to purchase these portraits and give them to their subjects, whom he considers to be the works “rightful owners,” and his “bestowals” create profound connections across the community before his true identity is revealed.
This fictional story explores many spiritual themes such as:
· Cultivating connection through art and kindness
· The transformative power of being truly seen
· Finding redemptive value in sadness and joy
Cloud of Witnesses (25 Authors, including yours truly!)
This book is a collection of personal stories from 25 different authors who each share how a particular saint has impacted their life. Each chapter is short—about 2,000 words—so it’s easy to pick up and read when you only have a few minutes. You not only get a glimpse into the life of a saint, but you also get a window into someone’s real life and real struggles. I’m especially fond of this book because I wrote one of the chapters, about Saint Monica—someone very dear to my heart. But even if I wasn’t in it, I’d still recommend it. It’s like sitting around a table with friends, sharing stories of grace and struggle. You can order a signed copy here. As a bonus, a study guide will be out soon, making this perfect for a simple study circle gathering with friends or encounter teams. This will be available for past purchases as well.
Where are You Reading This Summer?
We would love for you to bring us along on your summer reading journey! Whether you’re reading on a beach, on your porch with a cup of coffee, during a family trip, or in your favorite quiet corner at home, share a photo of where you’re reading this summer. We look forward to seeing the places, moments, and memories that are accompanying your reading and faith journey throughout the season.
Send photos of your reading view in the link below!
