What is on your summer reading list? In this episode, host Susan Smetzer-Anderson has a conversation with Byron Borger, owner of Hearts and Minds Bookstore. They discuss the importance of books and reading in shaping our imagination, empathy, and faith. Byron shares insights on the power of narratives and the impact of literature on our spiritual growth and understanding of the world. He also recommends books that offer guidance on reading thoughtfully and spiritually, emphasizing the transformative nature of literature. The conversation delves into the power of narrative, the practice of deep reading, and the impact of technology on reading habits. It also explores the themes of hospitality, vocation, and the purpose of education. 

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Order your books through the Hearts and Minds bookstore = https://www.heartsandmindsbooks.com

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📖 Books mentioned in the podcast:

• Imagining Our Neighbors as Ourselves: How Art Shapes Empathy by Mary W. McCampbell (Fortress Press, 2022)
• The Scandal of Holiness: Renewing Your Imagination in the Company of Literary Saints by Jessica Hooten Wilson (Brazos Press, 2022)
• Reading for the Love of God: How to Read as a Spiritual Practice by Jessica Hooten Wilson (Brazos Press, 2023)
• Nourishing Narratives: The Power of Story to Shape Our Faith by Jennifer L. Holberg (IVP Academic)
• Deep Reading: Practices to Subvert the Vices of Our Distracted, Hostile, and Consumeristic Ageby Rachel B. Griffis, Julie Ooms, Rachel M. De Smith Roberts (Baker Academic, 2024)
• Beauty Is Oxygen: Finding a Faith That Breathes by Wesley Vander Lugt (Eerdmans, 2024)
• Visions of Vocation: Common Grace for the Common Good by Steven Garber (IVP, 2014)
• The Beautiful Madness of Martin Bonham: A Tale About Loving God by Robert Hudson (Self Published, 2023) 

 🎙️Byron’s podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/three-books-for-hearts-and-minds-podcast/id1718813591