THE POSITIVE TALK READING SHELF

GOOD READS.

A good book meets you where you are—and sometimes helps you see where you can go next. Now featuring Contend by Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell.

Faith. Growth. Recovery. Grief. Relationships. Real life.

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CURATED FOR YOUR JOURNEY

Find a read for your season.

Short previews, reflection prompts, and direct links to each author’s or publisher’s website.

8 books

FEATURED GOOD READCONTENDPhilip Anthony Mitchell

NEW • FEATURED GOOD READFaith

Contend

by Philip Anthony Mitchell · Founder and lead pastor, 2819 Church

Standing Boldly for Biblical Truth While Winning the War Within

Drawing from the biblical letter of Jude, Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell challenges readers to reject spiritual complacency, hold firmly to biblical truth, and examine the battles within their own hearts. The book invites Christians to live out the Gospel with courage, grace, and conviction—not merely speak about it.

LET’S REFLECTWhere in your life is God calling you to stand firm in truth, even when compromise would be easier?

Explore Official Book Site Preview available book pages on Google Books ↗Published October 13, 2026 · W Publishing / Thomas Nelson

POSITIVE TALK PICKSAtomic HabitsJames Clear

Growth

Atomic Habits

by James Clear

Small choices can lead to lasting change.

An approachable guide to designing better habits and staying consistent when motivation fades.

LET’S REFLECTWhat small action could you repeat this week?

Explore This Book Opens Author website

POSITIVE TALK PICKSThe Purpose Driven LifeRick Warren

Faith

The Purpose Driven Life

by Rick Warren

A faith-centered exploration of meaning and purpose.

A Christian reading journey that invites reflection on your values, calling, and relationship with God.

LET’S REFLECTWhat might purposeful living look like today?

Explore This Book Opens Author bookstore

POSITIVE TALK PICKSIt’s OK That You’re Not OKMegan Devine

Grief

It’s OK That You’re Not OK

by Megan Devine

Loss does not follow a timetable.

A compassionate perspective on living with grief without feeling pressured to rush toward an ending.

LET’S REFLECTWhat would meaningful support look like right now?

Explore This Book Opens Publisher website

POSITIVE TALK PICKSWe Are the LuckiestLaura McKowen

Recovery

We Are the Luckiest

by Laura McKowen

Honest reflections on sobriety and new beginnings.

A deeply personal recovery memoir about facing hard truths and rebuilding a life beyond addiction.

LET’S REFLECTWhat strength have you discovered on your journey?

Explore This Book Opens Publisher website

POSITIVE TALK PICKSThe Seven Principles for Making Marriage WorkJohn Gottman and Nan Silver

Relationships

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

by John Gottman and Nan Silver

Stronger relationships are built in everyday moments.

Practical, research-informed guidance for connection, healthier disagreement, and rebuilding understanding.

LET’S REFLECTWhere can you listen more carefully to someone you love?

Explore This Book Opens Gottman Institute

POSITIVE TALK PICKSThe Ruthless Elimination of HurryJohn Mark Comer

Faith

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

by John Mark Comer

Slow down and make space for what matters.

A Christian invitation to rethink a frantic pace and nurture a more present, intentional life.

LET’S REFLECTWhat could you make room for by slowing down?

Explore This Book Opens Publisher website

POSITIVE TALK PICKSThe Gifts of ImperfectionBrené Brown

Growth

The Gifts of Imperfection

by Brené Brown

You can grow without becoming someone else.

A reflection on authenticity, self-worth, courage, and accepting our imperfect humanity.

LET’S REFLECTWhere could you treat yourself with more compassion?

Explore This Book Opens Author website

GOOD CONVERSATIONS. BETTER PEOPLE.

Read it. Reflect on it. Grow from it.

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These are Positive Talk reading suggestions, not full book excerpts. External links may offer purchase options. Positive Talk is not affiliated with these authors or publishers. Cover images where available: Open Library.