Essential Christian Novels for Classical Readers

Essential Christian Novels for Classical Readers

Author: The Memoria Press Podcast Network November 19, 2025 Duration: 41:53
What are the best Christian novels to read? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we share a new list of books we think are especially worthwhile for Christian readers. These stories that have stayed with us, shaped our thinking, and resonated with our Christian beliefs. Whether you’ve read through our original list or you're simply looking for your next great book, this episode offers practical recommendations and helpful discussion!   *Read the original article from Martin Cothran—"Twelve Great Christian Novels"* https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/twelve-great-christian-novels/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=196   *Watch our previous episode on "12 Great Christian Books You Should Read"* https://youtu.be/j9vLO8-dfbc?si=gh9P0LSVzsFVIdAd?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=196   *What We're Reading* from This Episode:  "Twenty Years After" Alexandre Dumas (Paul) "Green Dolphin Street" Elizabeth Goudge (Tanya) "King Lear" William Shakespeare (Tanya) "Northwest Angle" William Kent Krueger (Martin) "Merlin's Isle" Malcom Guite (Martin) "Truth Matters" Robert P. George & Cornel West (Martin)   *And here are titles that we talked about, this episode, adding on to the original "Twelve Great Christian Novels"* "A Lesson Before Dying" Ernest J. Gaines"East of Eden" John Steinbeck"Fidelity" Wendell Berry"Hannah Coulter "Wendell Berry"I Heard the Owl Call My Name" Margaret Craven"Jane Eyre" Charlotte Brontë"Silence" Shūsaku Endō"The Gathering" Anne Enright"The Princess and the Goblin" George MacDonald"The Scarlet Letter" Nathaniel Hawthorne"The Tenant of Wildfell Hall" Anne Brontë"To Kill a Mockingbird" Harper Lee    

Classical Et Cetera from The Memoria Press Podcast Network is a series of conversations that delve into the heart of a classical education, exploring its principles, practices, and enduring relevance. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's a practical guide built from the experiences of those actively shaping this educational landscape. Each episode features educators in the classroom, authors who craft the curricula, publishers who bring these resources to life, and the visionaries who see the bigger picture. Together, they unpack the ideas, challenges, and successes inherent in teaching and learning with a classical lens. You'll hear specific examples, thoughtful debates on methodology, and reflections on how ancient wisdom applies to modern students. The dialogue in this podcast naturally extends beyond mere textbooks to consider the broader cultivation of intellect and character. Whether you're a seasoned teacher, a homeschooling parent, or simply curious about educational philosophy, these discussions offer grounded insights and actionable wisdom. Tune in for an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing work of building a meaningful education, one thoughtful conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Classical Et Cetera
Podcast Episodes
Why Read Ancient Greek Literature? Essential Books to Start With [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:40
In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we begin a new series on the best books of each era by turning to ancient Greece! From Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to the tragedies and philosophers, we explore the foundational works…
Christian Nonfiction Books for Classical Readers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:44
In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we turn from fiction to Christian nonfiction books that have shaped our faith. From _Mere Christianity_ and Augustine’s _Confessions_ to biographies, letters, and works on prayer an…
Why Imagination Matters in Classical Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:53
In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore the idea of "poetic knowledge"—a way of knowing that begins with experience and imagination before moving to analysis. Has modern education become too abstract, too qui…
Classroom Technology Isn’t Helping Students Learn [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:30
What happens when screens replace books and classroom technology replaces thinking? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we examine research showing how screens, scrolling text, and digital note-taking undermine attent…
Reading Goals 2026 | How to Read More Books Without Burnout [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:30
How should adults think about reading goals for the coming year—and how do you read more books without letting reading become a burden? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we talk about reading goals for 2026 and wh…
The Best Way to Learn Latin: Grammar, Immersion, and the Real Goal [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:50
There is no shortage of advice about how Latin _should_ be taught—immersion, conversation, grammar-first, or a blending of methods. In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we step back and ask a more fundamental questio…
Is Classical Education Practical in a Trade & Tech World? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:00
Is a classical education practical in today’s world of trades, technology, and rapidly changing careers? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore that question through the real-life experiences of two classica…