What Christmas gift do you get for a Christian friend? How can you encourage a young person you know to walk with God? Could I recommend a missionary biography (or ten)?

Here is a list of some of the best missionary biographies with a quick preview and recommendation for who might best benefit from reading them:

1. Hudson Taylor in Early Years: The Growth of a Soul by Dr. & Mrs. Howard Taylor.

This is the first of a two volume set. The writing is often devotional. I have personally benefited much from this work. The faith and perseverance of Hudson Taylor in China presents a godly pattern to follow.

2. The Story of John G. Paton: Thirty Years Among South Sea Cannibals by John Paton.

If you are looking for a wild story of God’s work in dangerous times, this is the book for you. It’s also free on kindle.

3. By Searching: My Journey Through Doubt Into Faith by Isobel Kuhn.

This short book is great for college students thinking about future decisions. Young women especially should read this book.

4. The Shadow of the Almighty by Elisabeth Elliot.

This classic biography tells how God used a normal guy who followed God in a way that influenced a generation. The story of Jim Elliot’s martyrdom will move any believer. Young men especially should read this book.

5. To the Golden Shore: The Life of Adoniram Judson by Courtney Anderson

The first missionaries sent from the United States headed for Burma (modern-day Myanmar). This book highlights the faith of both Adoniram and his wife, Ann.

6. Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose

This World War II story chronicles the faith of a young missionary woman in Indonesia caught in a war zone. Her faith in God in a Japanese concentration camp will challenge your walk with God.

7. The Triumph of John and Betty Stam by Mrs. Howard Taylor

This short book shows how God used a young couple for His glory in wartorn pre-World War II China.

8. Faithful Witness: The Life and Mission of William Carey by Timothy George

This well-written biography of the Father of Modern Missions tells a gripping story without getting bogged down in too many details. Every believer should know the story of William Carey in India.

9. A Chance to Die: The Life and Legacy of Amy Carmichael by Elisabeth Elliot.

The work and faith of Amy Carmichael in India is an inspiration to all, especially those who are single.

10. Daring Devotion: A 31-Day Journey with those who Lived God’s Promises by M. R. Conrad.

Yes, I did write this one so my recommendation comes with all the objectivity of a mother writing a job reference for her child. However, this book is designed to whet the appetite to read more missionary biographies like those above. Daring Devotion may be a good place to start for those who have not yet gotten into missionary biographies.

Consider Giving Missionary Biographies

Give a gift with meaning—a gift which will encourage your family and friends to follow God. These testimonies can be enjoyed as print books, ebooks, and some even as audio books. Missionary biographies have challenged, enriched, and changed my life. Let us pass on to others these sources of spiritual encouragement and growth.

For more missionary biography options, check out my author website.