Here are a few of my favorite books, all of which I have read since the brain tumor diagnosis in February 2004. I prefer the paperback format, as I can easily carry the book in my pocket and read a few pages at a time, as opportunity permits.
The Bible
Of course we must start with the Bible, for no matter what situation we face, the Word of God is essential and relevant. All other literature is vastly inferior to the Bible, since the scriptures show us the way to heaven. I use a Bible that has one inch margins so that I can take notes and record my thoughts, sermon notes and other input I might receive during my study times.
100 Questions and Answers About Brain Tumors
Written by my oncologist, Dr. Virginia Stark-Vance, and brain tumor survivor ML DuBay, this book provides authoritative, practical answers to questions, as seen from both the doctor's and patient's points of view.
Surviving "Terminal" Cancer
Written by 13 year gbm survivor Dr. Ben Williams, this book is as compassionate and uplifting as it is authorative and honest - the first book I read following my diagnosis in January 2004. A book that could only be written by a brain tumor survivor. I have consulted with Dr. Williams many times via email. He publishes an annual report on the latest developments in brain tumor treaments.
Life's Mountains
Written by gbm survivor Cheryl L. Broyles. Another book that could only be written by a brain tumor survivor. Cheryl's amazing story will lift your heart and bath you in hope. Her emotions jump right off of the pages into your soul. I have yet to see another autobiography that expresses such transparency in victory and defeats. You are going to laugh and cry.
That's Unacceptable
Rebecca Limbutti's first reaction when told that she had a brain tumor and would not live much longer. Yet another book that could only be written by a brain tumor survivor, the second book I read following my gbm diagnosis, and the paperback is available through Krystal Publishing. I continue to communicate with Warren Limbutti on a regular basis, via email and telephone.
Navigating Through a Strange Land
Essays composed about brain tumors by patients, families, caregivers and healthcare professionals. The editor of this book, Tricia Ann Roloff, is herself a brain tumor survivor.
An Unremarkable Man
This is my book, released in August 2010, and placed after other brain tumor books in this list out of respect for those who have gone before me. You can find my book on amazon.com and bn.com. Net proceeds from sales of my book are donated to the Legacy Brain Foundation.
Foxe's Book of Martyrs
This book is difficult to read for reasons of graphic violence - Christians burned at the stake because of their refusal to recant their faith in Christ alone for salvation. May I be so faithful to my Lord if I am ever placed in a similar peril.
Jesus Freaks
This book, from the Christian rock band dc Talk and the Voice of the Martyrs is also difficult to read because of the graphic violence described therein. I pray for my persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. I need to find a way to augment my prayers with action.
The Diary of a Young Girl
The story of Anne Frank and family, hiding from the Nazis in occupied Holland during World War II. Only Anne's father survived the war. This book offers a compelling commentary on courage and optimism in the face evil and wickedness.
The Hiding Place
The triumphant true story of Corrie Ten Boom and family, Christians who helped Jews evade capture by the Germans in Holland during World War II. Ultimately, their comittment landed them in a concentration camp, where several of Corrie's family, including her sister and father, died.
90 Minutes in Heaven
This is a true story of death and life. Don Piper was killed instantly in a head on collision with a truck in January 1989. He spent 90 minutes in heaven and was then miraculously returned to life with only the memory of inexpressible heavenly bliss.
Heaven is Real
The follow up to Don's New York Times best seller, 90 Minutes in Heaven. Don's first book described his experiences in heaven, while this second book shows how to transform tragedy into triumph.
What's So Amazing About Grace?
Philip Yancey provides a probing look at grace and "ungrace" - what grace looks like and doesn't look like, and why only Christians can and must reveal the grace for which the world seaks.
The Bravest Man
The Adventures of Richard O'Kane, captain of the fleet submarine USS Tang during World War II. I had the profound honor of meeting Rear Admiral O'Kane at a submariner's reunion in Fredricksberg, Texas in 1989.
God's Smuggler
The true story of a young Dutchman bringing thousands of Bibles across dangerous borders into needy hands. This book has sold more than 10 million copies in English alone.
Light Force
A stirring account of the church caught in the Middle East crossfire. Brother Andrew challenges us to reach out to Christian Arabs, Christian Palestinians and Christian Jews. This book is as interesting as it is controversial.
Humility
One of many great works by the 19th century/early 20th century prolific Christian writer Andrew Murray. Humility is the very heart of God, contradicted by humanity's tendency towards pride and the "me first" mindset.
PAIN: The Gift Nobody Wants
Authors Paul Brand, MD and Philip Yancey present a startling view on pain and the vital role it plays as a necessary and important ally in medical treatment and true health. The book draws from Dr. Brand's astonishing breakthroughs in the treatment of leprosy in India.
Three Cups of Tea
The story of Gregg Mortenson and his mission to promote peace, one school at a time. After failing to reach the top of a mountain "K2" Mortenson finds himself in a desperate situation, at the mercy of the elements. He stumbles into a small remote village in Pakistan's Northern district and is nursed back to health. Seeing the destitute conditions, and the total lack of opportunities for these people, Mortenson determines to build schools for the children of Korphe. Gregg's experiences and courage read like something out of the Indiana Jones series.
Seeing Eye to Eye with God
Wisdom is practical and intended for application in our everyday lives. Keith Zimmerman dispells the three myths surrounding wisdom's acquisition and challenges us to aggressively seek and pursue Biblical wisdom.
The Screwtape Letters
A classic from C.S. Lewis in which a senior devil schools an inexperienced demon in the fine art of tempting and subverting humans. But despite Screwtape's best council, Wormwood fails to trash the life and eternity of his 'patient.' This book cleverly illustrates many devices of Satan, and yet at the same time shows how the forces of darkness and deception are in subjection to the God of Heaven. This books reminds the reader of the spiritual warfare that is happening all around us.
