As I have done the past two years, I'd like to offer five book selections that I read the previous year to "jump start" your reading pile! These books come with my highest recommendation and are sure to be a blessing to you.

• Between Heaven and Mirth: Why Joy, Humor, and Laughter Are at the Heart of the Spiritual Life, by Fr. James Martin, SJ (2011) - I can't imagine anyone else having written this book. Fr. Martin's signature wit and gift for bringing spiritual topics to the masses makes this not only a delightful read but a probing search for joy in the faith.
• Church and New Media: Blogging Converts, Online Activists, and Bishops Who Tweet, edited by Brandon Vogt (2011) - I fully expect the next generation of Catholic media creators to cite this book as a powerful inspiration. The essays contained within highlight some of the best Catholic work being done on the web.
• Practice Makes Catholic, by Joe Paprocki (2011) - Joe's latest book outlines the Catholic faith through five principles: sacramentality, community, justice and the dignity of human life, reverence for Tradition, and a disposition towards faith and hope. A great read for any Catholic looking to deepen their practice of the faith.
• Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week: From the Entrance Into Jerusalem to the Resurrection, by Pope Benedict XVI (2011) - In this, the second volume of the Holy Father's reflections on the life of Christ, the pope's humble spirit and gift for explaning the truth of the faith in simple, lucid terms is in full effect as he unpacks the mysteries of Christ's death and resurrection.
• The Catholic Briefcase: Tools for Integrating Faith and Work, by Randy Hain (2011) - This book is a must-read for anyone who has wondered how to live out their faith the other six days of the week.

If you have any recommendations that you've read in the past year, share them in the comments!

Photo by Thomas Hawk / FlickrCC