The Christian Century

Miss Manners’ Guide to Excruciatingly Correct Behavior, by Judith Martin (Norton). Part etiquette manual, part psychology text, Miss Manners’ Guide has been a dependable source of insight and information over the years. Martin addresses everything from writing condolence letters to the order of a traditional wedding procession to how to handle sexist remarks with grace. Even in ministry, good manners never go out of style.

Readings in Christian Theology, edited by Peter C. Hodgson and Robert H. King (Fortress). This book is a well-edited introduction to the foundational texts that shaped the development of Christian theology. I still use this invaluable primer for busy pastors to refresh my theological memory.