So far I've read six of them.

"When I get a little money, I buy books. And if any is left, I buy food and clothes." - Desiderus Erasmus

Erasmus had it right.

Now, I'm no Roman, mind you, but when I read a quote like the above, I see a kindred spirit. Even if Erasmus was wrong about the Reformation, he was right about this one. Books are one of the greatest pleasures in life.

I truly love to read; it is one of my passions--hence I have a page here dedicated solely to books and reading. I read for entertainment, I read for knowledge, I read for instruction, and sometimes, I simply read for distraction (although in that case it's usually a magazine). Rarely is there a time in my life when I am not reading at least one book of some kind.

What do I like to read, you may ask? Lots of things, but here's my general rule; I try to always have three books going--one about history, one about theology, and then one novel (just for fun). Right now, however, I've only got two tomes I'm trying to knock down; I finished the novel I was reading and am going to hold off from buying anymore for the time being.

The two books I'm reading right now are The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination by Loraine Boettner, and The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith. Let me tell you something--neither of these are a light undertaking. Try to read them while you're laying in bed, and you'll either be fast asleep or hopelessly confused (or both) within a quarter hour. These are books for which you set aside time at your desk, keep a Bible and/or a dictionary handy, and concentrate while you read them. And truth be known, that's how I like it. A book should be an experience from which you learn and are challenged; if it doesn't involve at least a little work, then you're wasting your time. You should go turn on the TV.

Don't misunderstand me; I'm not some masochist who thinks it's fun to struggle through obscure and incomprehensible texts. And I'm not some postmodern deconstructionist who enjoys imputing some sort of radical theory to a work, something which the author never intended. I'm merely saying that reading should be a worthwhile endeavor, and as such it should require some exertion. Indeed, it is the very exertion that results in much of the satisfaction I derive from finishing a book. Consider the long-distance runner upon finishing the race; his sense of accomplishment doesn't stem so much from his victory (since only one person can win) as it does from the satsifaction of a race well-run.

And so I don't read Loraine Boettner's work with the intent of breaking new ground in theology, and I don't read Adam Smith with the aim of revolutionizing economic thought. I read them for instruction, for provocation, for edification. And therein lies the pleasure I receive from a good book; the satisfaction of a task well accomplished.

So, what're you reading?

Read an email I sent to a girl last year who asked for my "top ten books" list.