I am the Only Running Footman by Martha Grimes

A fairly obscure mystery that mostly deals with a series of murders, many suspects and only in the last few pages solves everything. Features a crusty Scottish inspector who doesn't seem to do anything, is disliked by everyone, and in the end others solve the case and he purports to have known it all along to the complete impatience of this reader. The author has a good reputation but probably not from this book.

Surprised by Hope by N. T. Wright

It is hard for me to overstate the importance of this book. For me it seemed to tie a lot of loose ends. Reading this book is a series of "so that's what those verses mean", and new ways of looking at verses that make them fit better with the whole fabric of the gospel. The thesis of the book is that when Jesus comes he is bringing his kingdom to earth and will recreate the new earth and heavens, not destroy. This world is not a test to go to the next world, there is a radical continuity, Jesus the resurrection King will set all things right. Read this book!

My Life and Work by Henry Ford

A public domain autobiography. I enjoyed this very much because my reading coincided with the death of Steve Jobs. Remarkably, there were interesting parallels: early failure, strong opinions, long-range vision, focus on product over profit. Ford's view of the purpose of business, work, stockholders, and speculation, debt, investors is very refreshing and extremely timely. The current recession and doubts about capitalism make Ford's views very interesting. He seemed to care about workers, definitely believed in a living wage, and thought if management did what they should, unions were superfluous. Except for a brief vague reference to Jews in business, this book is food for thought and solid points of view still relevant today.

Julia by Shelley L. Houston

A mystery novel by a close friend. I was drawn in by the story and enjoyed the local references. A good read. Looking forward to a sequel.

Hidden Moon by James Church

Another Inspector O novel set in North Korea. Another inscrutable plot but O is just as enjoyable. One gets more of a flavor of North Korea than any real information. Everyone is being watched by each other and shadowy characters abound.

Safely Home by Randy Alcorn

A novel about the persecuted church, set in China. Vivid and shocking, it is also a view of the American church as seen from China and the world church as seen from Heaven. The portrayal of simple fervent faith under fire is well done. "Pure gold fears no fire."

Undue Influence by Shelby Yastrow

Interesting legal mystery about an accountant who on his death bequeaths 8 million dollars to a local synagogue. Where did he get this money? Why does a Gentile give such a large sum to a synagogue? Is this will valid? Does he have any relatives? Apparently everyone has relatives, something I had never given thought to. Short, interesting in how complex a simple bequest can become.