Awake My Soul: Practical Spirituality for Busy People

From its subtitle, Jones's book would appear to be a how-to manual, complete with step-by-step instructions for setting up a schedule for devotions and penciling retreats into your day planner. However, his approach is subtler, a cultivation of what might be called ""mindfulness."" Jones describes his own progress of ""awakening"" to the meaning and beauty of ordinary events and of other people. He includes anecdotes of others' experiences as he unfolds his own spiritual growth. The book's 12 chapters cover aspects of daily life such as jobs and routine, chance encounters and sought companions, the reality of suffering and the inevitability of death. Jones's engaging storytelling leads readers to find the holy in everyday life. Readers who enjoy the work of Henri Nouwen and Richard Foster will welcome Jones's thoughtful and gentle writing style. (Apr.)