Treasures of the Heart: Tiny Paintings and Timeless Books
At the beginning of this year, I started a series called Tiny Paintings, and they bring me so much joy. Each little 4x4" creation feels like a creative "Choose Your Own Adventure." Some are inspired by something the Lord laid on my heart, others by small delights in my day, or simply something I love.
This week, my mind has been on the ongoing fires in California. Like many of you, I’m heartbroken for the families who’ve lost their homes and are trying to pick up the pieces of their lives. I can’t help but think about the treasures that were lost—libraries cultivated over decades, even centuries, filled with beloved books that can never truly be replaced.
It makes me wonder: if faced with imminent destruction, what would I rush to save? If I had to start over, where would I even begin?
Today's Tiny Painting: Favorite Books
Today's Tiny Painting is all about our favorite books—the ones we go back to time and time again. They’re the stories that shape us, comfort us, and inspire us to keep going.
If I were starting from scratch and rebuilding my library, a good study Bible would be the first thing on my list. After that, I’d need a well-worn set of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women books, anything by Jane Austen, and the Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers. I’d also include Waking the Dead by John Eldredge, which I revisit every few years because it’s like a cold glass of water for the soul—a reminder that we were born into a world at war and must remember who the true enemy is.
Must-Have Books for Every Library
When starting over, rebuilding a library is a chance to focus on the books that truly matter. Here are some suggestions to inspire your collection:
1. Timeless Classics
Books that stand the test of time and offer unforgettable stories:
- Little Women series by Louisa May Alcott
- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
- The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien
2. Inspirational Reads
Books that uplift and encourage:
- Waking the Dead by John Eldredge
- Book of Mysteries by Jonathan Cahn
- Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman
3. Faith-Based Fiction
Stories that inspire and deepen faith:
- Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers
- The Shack by William Paul Young
- Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
4. Art and Creativity
Books to fuel your creative spirit:
- The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
- Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
- Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
What About You?
Now it’s your turn! If you were rebuilding your library from scratch, what books would you include? Which ones have shaped your life and become your go-to reads? Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or something in between, I’d love to catch a glimpse of your world as a bibliophile.
Drop a comment below and share your favorites! Let’s celebrate the stories that inspire us to live fully and creatively.
You’ll notice some affiliate links in my posts from time to time—if you click and purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a fun way to share my favorite finds while helping support my creative journey—thank you for being part of it! 💕