On July 11, 2016, Frederick Buechner, the prolific and popular Christian writer and novelist, celebrated his 90th birthday. Profiled at S&P as a Living Spiritual Teacher, he is the author of more than 30 books — novels, memoirs, sermons, and theological works. Published by the Frederick Buechner Center and curated by bestselling author Anne Lamott, this paperback contains a substantive mix of his work. It also features tributes by Lamott, Barbara Brown Taylor, and Brian McLaren.

Among our favorite pieces are the author's "ABC's of Faith" with definitions of Art, Forgiveness, Grace, The Lord's Prayer, Tears, and more. Another gem is "The Road Goes On," a commencement address given at The Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia; he includes a teaching story about a bleak day when, drenched in doubt, he spotted the word TRUST on the license plate of a passing car. In his essay titled "Faith and Fiction," the author sums up what he has tried to say in his writings with the phrase "Pay attention."

All those who have gravitated toward Buechner's lyrical and profound Christian perspective — and those just discovering him — will find much to cherish in this paperback.