By the Boniuk Institute Team
The Sparrow: A Novel, by Mary Doria Russell
Recommended by Todd Ferguson (Sociology), Director, Religion and Public Life Center
This is one of those books that sticks with you for years. On the surface, it's science fiction, but it's really about faith, culture, suffering, and what happens when people misunderstand each other despite good intentions. Years after reading it, I am still wrestling with the questions it raises.
Best for: Science fiction readers, book club discussions, and anyone interested in faith, ethics, and cross-cultural encounters.
We Mend with Gold, by Kristin T. Lee
Recommended by Bianca Mabute-Louie (Sociology), Boniuk Institute Graduate Scholar
What struck me most about this memoir was its honesty. Lee reflects on Christianity, immigration, race, and assimilation with a voice that feels deeply personal and inviting. Rather than offering simple answers, she thoughtfully explores identity, belonging, and the tensions many people and communities navigate as they find their place in America.
Best for: Memoir readers, those interested in faith and identity, and anyone drawn to stories of immigration and belonging.
Independence: A Novel, by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Recommended by Hayley Hemstreet, Assistant Director of Operations
I read this novel several years ago and still find myself thinking about it. Through the lives of three sisters, Divakaruni brings the Partition of India and Pakistan vividly to life. It's not exactly a light summer read, but it's beautifully written, emotionally rich, and offers a powerful window into a pivotal moment in history through the lense of family, love, and loss.
Best for: Historical fiction readers, family sagas, and anyone interested in South Asian history.
The Watkins Book of African Folklore, by Helen Nde
Recommended by Sarah Reynolds (Anthropology), Zwan Postdoctoral Associate
I loved how immersive this collection feels. The stories are filled with humor, wisdom, tricksters, heroes, and unforgettable characters, while also offering insight into the cultural and spiritual traditions that shaped them. It's the kin of book you can savor one story at a time and still feel transported to another world.
Best for: Folklore enthusiasts, mythology lovers, and readers looking for a book they can dip into throughout the summer.
Martyr!, by Kaveh Akbar
Recommended by Judith Brunton (Religion), Boniuk Institute Faculty Fellow
I've been recommending this book to basically everyone. It somehow manages to be funny, heartbreaking, philosophical, and deeply hopeful all at once. Even though it wrestles with death and meaning, it never feels heavy-handed. The writing is gorgeous, and the main character feels so alive and complicated that I didn't want the book to end!
Best for: Literary fiction readers, fans of character-driven novels, and anyone who enjoys books that wrestles with big questions.
Rage and Carnage in the Name of God: Religious violence in Nigeria, by Abiodun Alao
Recommended by Josiah Taru (Anthropology), Boniuk Institute Postdoctoral Associate
This book helped me better understand the complex relationship between religion, politics, and violence in Nigeria without falling into easy stereotypes. Although it's scholarly, it's remarkably accessible and nuanced. I especially appreciated how Alao examines multiple communities and perspectives, challenging simplistic narratives and offering a deeper understanding of a difficult subject.
Best for: Readers interested in religion and politics, African studies, and contemporary global issues.
Sacrifice, by Rabindranath Tagore
Recommended by Gavin Goodrich (Music), Reading Religion Salon Scholar
I recommend this to anyone who things classic plays are intimidating because it's short, sharp, and surprisingly accessible. Tagore asks big questions about religious authority and spiritual truth in a way that still feels relevant today. Despite its length, the characters and dialogue have a depth that remind me of Shakespeare.
Best for: Readers curious about classic literature, world drama, and philosophical questions about religion and society.
Heretics Anonymous, by Katie Henry
Recommended by Kate Eubanks, Communications and Marketing Specialist
Every year I look forward to summer reading with my teen daughter. This book--officially young adult fiction--was one that we enjoyed together. It's funny, clever, and thoroughly engaging. A perfect candidate for summer reading that not only entertains, but opens the door to timely and important conversations.
Best for: Teens and adults reading together, fans of witty YA fiction, and readers who enjoy books that spark discussion.