10 Books that Feed My Soul

I read a great deal of books growing up and have a good deal more I need to get to reading. I have a terrible habit of returning to favorite books rather than reading something new. I say a “terrible habit” but I am actually a firm believer in re-reading books you love. These are 10 books I keep returning to that feed my soul. Old favorites with their grand adventures and familiar tales. I keep these books close by and treat myself to starting from any page as the mood strikes, as I am guaranteed to be thoroughly engrossed or delighted by what I read.

Disclaimer: Contains affiliate links that help support my content. Clicking on and shopping with these links will incur no additional cost or fee. This post is not sponsored.

The Log from the Sea of Cortez ~ John Steinbeck

This book stays on my nightstand as I find it a soothing read before bed. After having read the book from start to finish, I enjoy picking it up and reading at any point for however long to relax my brain. To read from such a skilled author who wrote down his coastal adventures and observations of sea life, is a true treasure. The mix of his thoughts on sea creatures, life, and politics fascinates me. A book I recommend for the man who has everything!

The Space Trilogy (Out of the Silent Planet/Perelandra/That Hideous Strength) ~ C.S. Lewis

This is a little bit of a cheat as it is three books. The Space Trilogy consists of three books titled Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, & That Hideious Strength. If I had to choose one to be a constant companion I would have to insist on Perelandra. I love all three books for different reasons. Perelandra has a sequence where we follow the main character who is being followed a “presence” or “creature” that chilled my blood and made my bones feel hollow. I will never forget it the impact that part of the adventure had on me. I dearly love to re-read the series just to have the buildup to that moment. I have been told that the books are a bit heavy for some and can easily see why they may not be everyone’s choice for enjoyment.

Tennyson’s Poetry ~ Alfred Lord Tennyson

If asked to narrow down my favorite poems of Tennyson’s, to a small selection or era of his work, I would be tempted to say The Idylls. However, it is impossible to choose anything but all of Tennyson’s work. They are all interesting, enlightening and at times mystifying. Profound truth and elevated myths. Each with some kind of moral lesson or profound thought however subtle. His poetry is good clean work you can understood with your full chest.

Of Other Worlds ~ C.S. Lewis

I haven’t met a work of Lewis’ that I haven’t enjoyed. I have dragged around and devoured this book with enthusiasm. The only downside to Lewis’ works for me is that after reading several of his books I tend to forget where I read what point he was making, and have to flip through several books before I can find it again! But that is my mind’s weakness and not his. The essays delighted me and the stories in the back shocked me as to their sharp clear points and to-the-point themes. It is a most excellent book and should be more prominently featured in circulation.

Billy Budd, Sailor ~ Herman Melville

This book’s story lives in my blood. The young and unassuming Handsome Sailor, and the scheming Master-at-Arms John Claggart bound together as pressed men on a naval ship. One man innocent (or is he?) and the other with a fate most damned. The characters were set up beautifully. We know who everyone is and what they are about. A situation I have confronted in real life many times. To know intent and to see action and to have to measure what is to be awarded legitimacy. People creating false narratives behind your back, and putting their plans in action in front of you. Forgiving them as they must be simply unhappy until their character comes into full focus. I dearly love this story. It has been a good companion.

Bonhoeffer ~ Eric Metaxas

I dragged this book around for a solid year. I then bought the audiobook and an e-copy and still dragged the hard copy everywhere! Bonhoeffer was a paster, martyr, prophet, and spy during World War II. It still saddens my heart that we don’t have more from this remarkable man. Bonhoeffer’s story was a missing piece to a moral puzzle I had been trying to solve. And I find his work to be quite thought-provoking.

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea ~ Jules Verne

This underwater adventure is so rich in detail and imagination. I was always enthralled with the idea of an underwater mobile library that is essentially self-sustaining! Following such a vivid undersea excursion is nothing short of thrilling. As Verne was French this book has many translations and depending on which you choose the content can be quite altered! I recommend reading as many as you can.

Dialogues of Fenelon ~ Francois Fenelon

A little book printed in two volumes of letters written to a duchess in regards to the everyday lessons of life. I can’t get over that they are from the 1600s! It is astounding that what was written hundreds of years ago is not only relevant but enlightening today. They are to-the-point and very encouraging.

Sherlock Holmes ~ Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Comprised of several novels and collections of short stories, Sherlock Holmes, is a most brilliant character. The mysteries are engaging and one exists for just about any mood. I love reading the shorter stories in the winter. They are interesting and entertaining. A great exercise for the mind.

The Wind in the Willows ~ Kenneth Grahame

Even though I was not particularly keen on talking animal stories growing up, I loved The Wind in the Willows. It engaged my imagination and I was fascinated with its ridiculous adventures. I loved Mole and Ratty having a picnic in the little rowboat. Toad aggravated me to no end but even the annoying character’s stories must be told! I tend to re-read this book in the spring.