I’ve always had a love/hate relationship with Augustine. To be sure, he’s one of the most significant thinkers in the history of Christendom. On the other hand, I think his idea of original sin and sexuality has wounded the church deeply. My respect for Augustine increased when I stopped reading about him and actually read him. The Confessions is a moving work that reveals the tender heart of a Christian wrestling with his commitments.

James K. A. Smith’s On the Road with Saint Augustine reveals the North African saint not as a cerebral inventor of doctrine but as a wandering pilgrim dissatisfied with the road. In this context, Augustine’s words take on new life and immediacy.

Everything you would expect from a James K. A. Smith book is here. He cites Camus and Derrida alongside Kerouac and the Dixie Chicks with ease. The soundtrack for the book includes Simon & Garfunkel, the Avett Brothers, Jeff Tweedy, and Moby. If you’re interested, he’s even curated a Spotify Playlist to accompany the book!

On the Road with Saint Augustine is an thought-provoking book to accompany modern-day pilgrims who seek to live authentic lives. If you’re tired of always searching but coming away disenchanted by the vacuous allure of the next big thing, Augustine understands. He’s been there and has surprisingly relevant advice to offer.

Smith, James K. A. On the Road with Saint Augustine. Brazos Press, 2019.