Best Sociology & Religion Books of 2026

Biblical Critical Theory by Christopher Watkin is a thought-provoking book that shows how the Bible's unfolding story can help us make sense of modern life and culture. The author examines critical theories through the lens of the biblical story from Genesis to Revelation, revealing hidden assumptions and concepts that shape our society. The book provides practical tools and incisive ways of analyzing and engaging with cultural artifacts and events that are both biblically faithful and culturally relevant. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for Christians who want to engage the world in a way that is biblically faithful and culturally sensitive.

"Jesus and John Wayne" is a thought-provoking examination of white evangelicalism in America. Author Kristin Du Mez explores how the movement has shifted from the teachings of Jesus to a focus on rugged masculinity and Christian nationalism, with popular culture playing a significant role in shaping beliefs. Du Mez also challenges the idea that white evangelicals supported Donald Trump for practical reasons, arguing that he represented their core values of patriarchy, authoritarianism, and opposition to marginalized groups. This book offers a fascinating and important perspective on a highly influential subculture in the US.

The CSB Apologetics Study Bible is a comprehensive resource for Christians seeking to defend and proclaim their faith in today's cultural context. Featuring commentary and articles from over 90 leading apologetics thinkers, this edition includes study notes, profiles of key Christian apologists, and full-color maps. The Bible's credibility and key apologists are detailed in the back of the book, and there is an index of special articles for quick and easy access. The CSB Apologetics Study Bible is a unique and valuable resource for Christians looking to better understand and defend their faith.

Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer is a gripping investigative journalism work that delves into the isolated Mormon Fundamentalist communities in America. The author takes readers on a bone-chilling journey of messianic delusion, polygamy, savage violence, and unyielding faith. The book revolves around brothers Ron and Dan Lafferty, who claimed to have received a commandment from God to kill a blameless woman and her baby girl. Krakauer raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of religious belief and uncovers a shadowy offshoot of America's fastest-growing religion. This book is a must-read for true-crime enthusiasts and those interested in religious extremism.

The CSB Study Bible is a comprehensive resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the Bible. With over 15,000 study notes, word studies, articles, timelines, maps, paintings, and illustrations, this study Bible is an excellent tool for both deep study and daily reading. The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) captures the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity, making it easier to engage with Scripture’s life-transforming message and to share it with others. The durable Smyth-sewn lay-flat binding and ribbon marker make this Bible a practical and beautiful addition to any library or personal collection.

The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers is a national bestseller that explores the universality of human experience through the themes and symbols of ancient narratives. With wit and intelligence, the book covers a range of topics from modern marriage to virgin births, and from Jesus to John Lennon. Campbell's unique ability to connect contemporary situations to ancient mythology is impressive, making this book a timeless classic. The engaging question-and-answer format between Campbell and Moyers makes it easy to understand complicated and esoteric topics. Overall, The Power of Myth is an excellent read that continues to influence our culture, making it a must-read for mythology enthusiasts.

The Complete Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway: The Finca Vigia Edition is a comprehensive collection of sixty stories that showcases Hemingway's ability to write beautiful prose for each distinct story. This anthology includes classic tales such as "The Snows of Kilimanjaro" and "Hills Like White Elephants," along with seven never-before-published stories. Hemingway's life and accomplishments are explored in-depth in the PBS documentary film from Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, Hemingway. Overall, this book is a must-read for Hemingway fans and those who appreciate classic literature.

Waco: David Koresh, the Branch Davidians, and A Legacy of Rage is a gripping account of the disastrous siege at the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas. Jeff Guinn's book sheds new light on the story we thought we knew, drawing on never-before-seen documents, photographs, and interviews. The book features revelations on why the FBI chose to end the siege with the use of CS gas, how both ATF and FBI officials tried and failed to cover up their mistakes, and direct links between the Branch Davidian tragedy and the modern militia movement in America. Overall, Waco is an impressively researched and well-written book that tells a story that needed to be told.

Waking Up: A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion by Sam Harris is a New York Times bestseller that offers a guide to meditation as a rational practice informed by neuroscience and psychology. Harris argues that there is more to understanding reality than science and secular culture generally allow, and that how we pay attention to the present moment largely determines the quality of our lives. This book is a unique marriage of contemplative wisdom and modern science that acknowledges the potency and importance of the religious impulse. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read for those seeking spirituality without religion.

Christopher Hitchens' "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything" is a thought-provoking and controversial critique of religion. Hitchens argues that religion is a man-made construct that causes sexual repression and distorts our understanding of the universe. He advocates for a more secular life based on science and reason. Despite the sensitive subject matter, Hitchens writes with eloquent clarity and a joyous impudence that makes the book thoroughly enjoyable. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and society.