These aren’t necessarily my very tops for 2008, but off the top of my head, I would have to say they are right up there.

Book – Touch, by Rudy Rasmus

The pastor of St. John’s in Houston has written a powerful book chronicling the life of St. John’s; really it’s also an extension of his own life and experiences.  Touch is formatted in a way that anyone would enjoy, while also lending itself to being a great leadership book.

While reading it, I keep coming back to the words of Jesus, about those who have been forgiven much, loving much.  I was encouraged and challenged by the fresh and compassionate way Pastor Rudy looks at people.  Three reads in 2008 wasn’t enough it seems; I plan on cracking it again this year

Album – Gossip In The Grain, by Ray LaMontagne

I’m always on the lookout for albums that really capture me, make me stop and say, “Yep. That’s it.”  And while that hasn’t seemed to happen in a while, when I heard Ray LaMontagne’s Gossip In The Grain, there it was.  Since Trouble, I have really enjoyed LaMontagne’s stripped down, well-written tunes.  On Gossip In The Grain, he adds to the sound, including horns and background vocalists, taking it in a fuller direction, while keeping it centered around good bluesy, folksy (how many annoying adjectives can I insert?) songwriting.

For me, it’s still about his voice (smooth yet rough – however that works; velvety sandpaper?) and the emotive feel of the songs.  Comparisons to Nick Drake or Joe Cocker are easy enough, but the guy has his own thing going.  If you only buy one CD this year… well, you know.

Movie – Be Kind Rewind, by Michel Gondry

I thoroughly enjoyed Be Kind Rewind, a movie by Michel Gondry that slipped in under my radar until I spied it on the rental shelf.  Intrigued by the picture of Jack Black and Mos Def riding a VHS cassette, I grabbed it.

I could give you the whole synopsis, but a quick Google search can give you that.  Or just rent it.  Now.  I know that for me, it was refreshing.  It had some really funny scenes, but the everyday feel of it was what I enjoyed most about it.  The storyline has a way of bringing you into the movie itself.  I chose this movie as my 2008 fave because it was just plain enjoyable.