Death by Suburb: How to Keep the Suburbs from Killing Your Soul examines the quiet spiritual cost of modern suburban life. Written from the perspective of a former pastor, it speaks to readers whose days are filled with carpools, soccer practices, and commutes rather than retreats and monasteries.
The book argues that the suburbs are a very real world, but one that can slowly corrode the soul. SUVs, cul-de-sacs, strip malls, and Starbucks form an environment that subtly shapes desires, priorities, and relationships. Through stories, humour, and research, the author helps readers notice how this landscape affects their spiritual lives.
At the heart of the book are eight "toxins" of suburban living, such as hyper-competition and transactional friendships, each paired with a corresponding spiritual discipline. These practices are designed to help readers cultivate an authentic relationship with God right where they live, work, and raise families.
Blending sociology, personal experience, and insights from classic spiritual writers, this volume offers a thoughtful guide for those who long for a deeper, more grounded faith amid the routines and pressures of suburbia.
Highlights
- Explores how suburban culture shapes spiritual life
- Identifies eight toxins of suburban living
- Offers practical disciplines for authentic faith
- Combines research, reflection, and gentle humour
