I love to read.
I always have loved reading – from the time I was a little girl I have always had my nose in a book. Sometimes to my detriment; I’ve tripped more times than I care to count because I was trying to read and walk at the same time.
I also love books about books and reading, so I was very excited to dive into “Recovering the Lost Art of Reading” by Leland Ryken and Glenda Faye Mathes, which I received as a part of the Crossway Book Review program.
I was not disappointed.
Ryken & Mathes’ book is an insightful exploration into the transformative power of reading, blending literary critique with spiritual guidance. This book is not just a call to return to reading but an invitation to rediscover the depth, freedom, and joy that comes from engaging deeply with texts. Part of their thesis that I found as a good reminder to myself is the importance of selecting good books. Ryken and Mathes advocate for discernment in reading choices, urging readers to seek out works that are not only well-written but also enriching and edifying. They provide practical advice on how to identify literature that will stand the test of time, literature that challenges, inspires, and educates.
A significant portion of the book is devoted to the spiritual dimensions of reading. Ryken and Mathes explore how reading can be a form of spiritual discipline, enhancing one’s understanding of biblical texts and deepening one’s faith. They highlight the value of incorporating biblical principles into reading practices, suggesting that approaching literature with a biblical worldview can enrich the reading experience and provide profound insights into human nature and the divine.
The authors draw from a wealth of biblical references, illustrating how scripture encourages the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge through reading. They suggest that reading, when done thoughtfully and with discernment, can be a means of experiencing God’s truth and beauty. This adds a rich layer to their advocacy for reading, presenting it not just as an intellectual activity but as a holistic practice that nurtures the soul.
One of my favorite chapters in the book addressed the freedom to read – I walked away from that section refreshed and renewed in my commitment to spend time reading without allowing the nagging guilt that sometimes creeps into my reading time to disrupt it – thoughts like “I should be getting something done” and “Is this the wisest use of my time?”; and even “I’m not learning anything profound from this book, I’m just enjoying it – is that wrong?” Recovering the Lost Art of Reading argues that true reading allows individuals to break free from the shallow engagement typical of digital media, providing a space for contemplation and deeper understanding. This freedom is not just about leisure but about liberating the mind and spirit and fostering intellectual and emotional growth.
“Recovering the Lost Art of Reading” is a compelling call for a return to thoughtful, intentional reading. Ryken and Mathes blend literary analysis, practical advice, and spiritual insight to create a guide that is both inspirational and practical – and well worth the time to read.
