ARCHIVAL NOTICE — EXPIRED OFFER. The 2019 WELLNOEL offer expired January 6, 2020. The coupon, 50% discount, and free U.S. shipping described below are historical and can no longer be redeemed.

We're excited to share some of our favorite InterVarsity Press selections for advent reading, Christmas gift-giving, and enjoyable Christmas break reading. We have a curated list for you, complete with editorial comments from our staff members.

From now until January 6, 2020, you can save 50% on a dozen titles from IVP. You'll also get free shipping to US addresses. Simply add promo code WELLNOEL to your shopping cart at ivpress.com. (Ebooks are included! Just click through the print book link and then switch to the ebook edition if it is available.)

When you order with the WELLNOEL promo code, 10% of your purchase price goes back to support the The Well and InterVarsity's Women in the Academy and Professions ministry. The rest goes to support the work and authors of InterVarsity Press.

For Advent and Christmas reflection

The Art of Advent: A Painting a Day from Advent to Epiphany  by Jane Williams

"Looking at art helps me engage the stories of the bible in new ways. I’m excited to practice with these paintings during Advent."

The Messiah: The Texts Behind Handel’s Masterpiece  by Douglas Connelly

"Even as you enjoy the sounds of the season, this bible study guide for individuals or groups is a great resource to look closely at the Scripture used in Handel's Messiah." 

Unearthly Beauty: Through Advent with the Saints  by Magdalen Smith

"Magdalen Smith takes us through Advent and Christmas introducing us to friends from the history of the Church encouraging us to live distinctly, keeping the faith in our own anxious times."

Barefoot Ways: Praying through Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany  by Stephen Cherry

"If you get the Weekly Well, you know Andrea Bridges loves to borrow prayers, and here are some to keep us through the seasons. A peek into the author's own words: 'The distance from Advent to Candlemas is considerable, and there are many ways across its fearful and fascinating terrain. I offer here some "barefoot" ways — by which I mean ways that are both down to earth and yet full of spiritual aspiration and hope.'"

To give as holiday gifts

Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life  by Tish Harrison Warren

"We’re big fans of Tish Harrison Warren. Did you know Liturgy of the Ordinary grew out of this piece at The Well? Tish reflects on events in an ordinary day and helps us see how they are opportunities to connect deeply with God. Check out our podcast with Tish and buy her book!"

Living the Christian Year: Time to Inhabit the Story of God  by Bobby Gross

"As we start a new year, this book serves as a companion for aligning your own life-rhythms with those of the church calendar. More than merely a devotional guide, this book explains and draws you into the rich traditions of the Church."

Coloring the Psalms: Seeing God's Pattern in Our Lives  by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun 

"Perhaps you know someone who might benefit from some slower soothing activity during this busy, busy season. In addition, this might be a way to find Five Minutes of Peace?"

Theologygrams: Theology Explained in Diagrams  by Rich Wyld

"They say a picture paints a thousand words — or helps explain difficult theological concepts. The perfect gift for a theology-nerd who also enjoys laughing!"

To read over the holiday break

Sensible Shoes: A Story about the Spiritual Journey  by Sharon Garlough Brown

"I'll be honest — I was skeptical about this book. But I'd heard enough positive reviews that I gave it a try, and boy, am I glad I did! A very thoughtful fictional account of several women's spiritual journeys featuring characters from all walks of life."

Gospel According to Eve: A History of Women's Interpretation  by Amanda W. Benckhuysen

"Amanda Benckhuysen introduces us to new friends from throughout history who discovered as they looked into the Scripture — particularly at Genesis 1-3 — that far from being less than, women are image bearers of God and given the same mandate to love God and steward his world."

Also, check out our podcast episode with Amanda! 

Sacred Endurance: Finding Grace and Strength for a Lasting Faith  by Trillia Newbell

"People I trust keep telling me how great Trillia Newbell is. Reflecting on the spiritual life, he takes the Biblical metaphor of running the race and offers encouragement and hope in the midst of a call to perseverance."

Choosing Community: Action, Faith, and Joy in the Works of Dorothy L. Sayers  by Christine A. Colón

"I love Dorothy Sayers’ mysteries, and I loved our interview with Christine. She delves into the world of the mystery novel and emerges with wisdom for thriving communities."