As we approach the end of another season of Gospelbound, I took the interviewee seat to talk with my colleague Kendra Dahl about my favorite fiction books. We started with the basic question of why Christians should bother to read fiction at all. Then I jumped in to discuss various genres, from historical to Scandinavian to Russian to and Southern fiction, and how each offers unique perspectives on humanity and culture. You don’t have to enjoy the same kinds of literature, but I bet you can share similar experiences of connecting with God and your loved ones as you enter fictional worlds that are truer than reality.

I’ve been looking forward to this podcast for weeks! I shared personal connections to these genres and recommended books that have deeply affected me, from my personal faith to my evangelism. Thankfully I get to teach several of these books in the classroom, and every time I get the chance to remember where I sat as I read these books for the first time, and how my outlook on God and the world grew and matured. Oh how I wish I could open these books again for the first time.

Fiction cultivates empathy, deepens our understanding of others, and helps us appreciate the complexities of human nature—all through the art of storytelling. Plus it’s simply great fun. Hopefully you’ll find your next great read from this list, or maybe even a few Christmas gift ideas for your loved ones.

We’ll see you back in December for my annual list of top theology stories, year-end recap, and 2025 preview with Melissa Kruger.