Looking for a light read at the beach? Well, the books here are probably not that, but might bring some new perspectives for you this summer on things like faith, mental health, and wellbeing. Submitted below are a few of my recommendations for some summer reading and are books that I have been reading over this spring and summer season. Feel free to take them to the beach nonetheless!

The Anxious Generation (2024) by Jonathan Haidt

This book has been on the NYT nonfiction bestseller list for 67 weeks as of the time of writing, and there’s a reason for it. Haidt’s groundbreaking connection between the rise of the present mental health crisis in American adolescents and screen/smartphone use is startling. Haidt makes a compelling case for limiting screen use among children and adolescents, and makes practical recommendations for parenting a well.

Walking Through Deconstruction (2025) by Ian Harber

I’ve struggled to find a text on the religious deconstruction phenomenon that both remains faithful to orthodox teaching and provides helpful pastoral guidance on walking alongside someone experiencing religious deconstruction. Until now. Harber’s stage theory model of deconstruction is particularly compelling. I expect much of this will transfer well into the clinical space.

Sap & Green (2025) by Trisha Kirkland

Have we mentioned that one of our counselors, Trisha Kirkland, LPC, published a book? This highly practical guide to implementing creative and biblically faithful self-care methods is a unique approach to thinking about and doing self-care. It will also challenge you to get started on that journey as well. Copies are available for purchase at Amazon.

Martin Luther’s Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (2023) by Ian Osborn

This brief psychobiography of Martin Luther makes the case that Luther struggled with OCD, among other things. What’s interesting here is Luther’s “treatment” for OCD: an intuitive application of Reformation theology in a way that mirrors exposure and response prevention therapy.

Rejoice and Tremble (2021) by Michael Reeves

The title of this book nicely encapsulates the thesis Dr. Reeves draws out; namely, that the fear of the Lord is a cause of rejoicing, and that two seemingly opposite things can exist in the Christian life. This book seems especially relevant given the misuses and misunderstandings of this doctrine over the years.

Article by Brian A. Mesimer, Ph.D.

*As a disclaimer, these recommendations do no necessarily imply the Center’s endorsements of every part of every work listed here.