Who doesn’t love a light, beachy read while their toes dig into the sand and the sun warms their face?

This year consider mixing in a few novels with a spiritual message to deepen your summer reading experience.

Albert Camus once said, “Fiction is the lie through which we tell the truth,” and each of these novels explores and reveals some truth of life that can contribute to your spiritual journey.

1) The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

This is the story of a young man’s circuitous journey of faith. It will remind you that the universe is always on your side.

2) The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield

This book was all the rage in the 1990s, so if you missed it the first time around, or you weren’t born yet, you’ll love this story about learning to work with the energies of the universe.

3) Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman

Read the book first and then watch the movie (starring Nick Nolte) to consider the value in letting go of who you thought you were so that you can become who you really are.

4) Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis

The first in a trilogy, Lewis’ space travel odyssey appears to be science fiction on its surface, but beneath there are much deeper messages about faith, fear, and humanity’s blessings and curses.

5) Life of Pi by Yann Martel

How will Pi survive after a shipwreck when he’s forced to share his lifeboat with a Bengal tiger? You’ll keep reading until you find out.

Comment below to share your plans for spiritual summer reading.

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Author: Karen Costa

Image: Flickr/Anne Adrian

Editor: Travis May; Catherine Monkman