Spirituality and Religion
January 2026

Recent Releases
Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging
by Angela Buchdahl

Born to a Korean Buddhist mother and Jewish father, Angela Buchdahl shares her remarkable journey from outsider to one of America’s most influential rabbis. Both memoir and spiritual guide, this inspiring account explores identity, resilience, and the power of faith to create belonging in a fractured world.
Holy Disruptor: Shattering the Shiny Facade by Getting Louder with the Truth
by Amy Duggar King

Amy Duggar King pulls back the curtain on life inside the Duggar family, sharing her journey from “Crazy Cousin Amy” to outspoken advocate for truth and healing. Raw and unfiltered, this memoir confronts toxic cycles and celebrates the courage it takes to break free and reclaim faith.
Witness to Belief: Conversations on Faith and Meaning
by Russell J. Levenson, Jr.

Through candid conversations with figures like Condoleezza Rice, Denzel Washington, and Jane Goodall, the author explores how faith shapes the lives of prominent individuals. These intimate stories reveal belief as a source of strength, purpose, and resilience, providing an inspiring read for those longing to deepen their spiritual practice.
Give Me a Word: The Promise of an Ancient Practice to Guide Your Year
by Christine Valters Paintner

Rooted in the ancient monastic tradition, this contemplative book invites readers to choose a sacred word as a spiritual companion for the year ahead. Blending reflection, creativity, and gentle prompts, it’s a soulful resource for those yearning for mindfulness and meaning in daily life.
The Girl on the Bathroom Floor: Held Together When Everything Is Falling Apart
by Amber Emily Smith

After losing her three-year-old son in a tragic accident, Amber (the wife of country music artist Granger Smith) wrestled with grief, faith, and the relentless ache of loss. In this raw memoir, she opens the door to those unseen moments of despair, sharing God’s role in helping her through the hard, grace-filled journey toward hope.
Surviving an Unwanted Divorce: A Biblical, Practical Guide to Letting Go While Holding...
by Lysa TerKeurst, Dr. Joel Muddadelle, and Jim Cress

Written by the hosts of the Therapy & Theology podcast, this compassionate resource offers biblical insight and practical strategies for navigating the heartbreak of divorce. Addressing tough questions about anger, loneliness, and moving forward, it provides hope and guidance for those facing the pain of an unexpected ending to a relationship.
Contact your librarian for more great books!
Gail Borden Public Library District


Main Library
- 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL 60120 - 847-742-2411

Rakow Branch - 2751 W. Bowes Rd., Elgin, IL 60124 - 847-531-7271

South Elgin Branch - 127 S. McLean Blvd., South Elgin, IL 60177 - 847-931-2090

http://www.gailborden.info/


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