Everything Happens for a Reason and Other Lies I've Loved

In this memoir, Kate Bowler, a historian of the American prosperity gospel, recounts her life-altering diagnosis with Stage IV colon cancer at the age of 35.

Despite her previous beliefs in the prosperity gospel, which suggests that blessings are a mark of God's favor and misfortune is a sign of disfavor, Bowler's diagnosis forces her to confront the harsh realities of life and death.

The book is a frank, funny, and wise account of her experiences, populated with colorful characters from her life, including friends, mega-church preachers, relatives, and doctors.

Bowler rejects the idea that everything happens for a reason and instead finds beauty and meaning in the unpredictability of life.