PSALMS REading list
The Saint Helena Psalter. New York: Church Publishing, 2004.
The Book of Psalms is a collection of one hundred and fifty ancient prayers considered scripture in both the Jewish and Christian traditions. They provide a biblical model of how to pray and express the full range of human emotions. This lovely translation of the psalms features inclusive language.
Stephen Mitchell, A Book of Psalms: Selected and Adapted from the Hebrew. New York: HarperPerennial, 1993.
A selection of the Psalms, translated quite loosely and very beautifully by the well-known translator and poet.
Nan Merrill, Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness. New York: Continuum, 2004.
Merrill has reworked the Psalms with gentle, loving language, leaving out mentions of anger and vengeance.
Ellen F. Davis, Getting Involved with God: Rediscovering the Old Testament. Boston: Cowley, 2001.
A collection of excellent essays on the Old Testament, including six essays on the psalms which are helpful in understanding how to use the Psalms in prayer.
Cynthia Bourgeault, Chanting the Psalms: A Practical Guide with Instructional CD.
Boston: Shambhala, 2006.
An introduction to chanting the Psalms, from the simplest monotone to more complex systems, including a CD that provides examples of all the different styles. Chanting is a wonderful practice for those who are looking for a more embodied form of prayer.