The Sleep You're Longing For: How Rest Connects Us to Happiness, Healing, and Hope

by Ken Wytsma

Many of us overlook the power of sleep--until we struggle to get enough of it. Our culture glorifies productivity and achievement, yet millions suffer from chronic exhaustion, stress, and anxiety. If we could sleep better, could we live better?

Ken Wytsma, an author and educator who has grappled with every sleep issue imaginable, believes we can. In this fresh and empowering guide, he considers the significance of sleep--not just as a health necessity but also as a spiritual and creative foundation for well-being. Weaving together personal storytelling, historical vignettes, and spiritual insights on the hidden power of rest, Wytsma

· explores why sleep deprivation harms our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being;
· explains how rest fuels happiness, creativity, resilience, and a life of service to others;
· shows that reclaiming the gift of sleep is an invitation to the good life; and
· offers practical wisdom for overcoming sleep struggles.

This is a compassionate, encouraging, and fascinating guide for anyone looking to escape the cycle of exhaustion and rediscover the joy of a well-rested life.

256 pages, Paperback

Published April 14, 2026

About the author

Ken Wytsma is a leader, innovator, and social entrepreneur respected for his insight and collaborative spirit. He is the president of Kilns College, where he teaches courses on philosophy and justice. He is the founder of The Justice Conference—an annual international conference that introduces men and women to a wide range of organizations and conversations relating to biblical justice and God’s call to give our lives away.

Ken is a consultant and creative advisor to nonprofits and a sought after speaker on justice, church and culture. A church planter and lead pastor at Antioch Church, Ken lives in Bend, Oregon, with his wife, Tamara, and their four daughters.

Ken’s first book, Pursuing Justice: The Call to Live and Die for Bigger Things, was released in 2012 and his second book, The Grand Paradox: The Messiness of Life, the Mystery of God and the Necessity of Faith, was released in January 2015.

Reviews

[Hayley Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ken Wytsma brings a profound level of thoughtfulness to his writing, and it is on full display in The Sleep You’re Longing For. Wytsma masterfully bridges the gap between our historical spiritual yearning for peace and the latest scientific data, crafting a compelling argument for why we not only need, but deserve, true rest.

I especially enjoyed how he honors global perspectives by highlighting the diverse cultural practices surrounding sleep.

For the modern reader, the book’s structure is a gift; the "quick tips" and key takeaways at the end of each chapter make it an accessible yet deeply enriching read for even the busiest schedules.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a detailed and personal look at sleep. I like it a lot because although it mentions the usual items around sleep hygiene it also takes a holistic approach looking also at mindset and approach to sleep. I didn’t learn anything new as such but it is quite an affirming tale for those that struggle to sleep. One bit I really liked was the invitation to let things go at the end of the day. To through things off, to forgive people and things and to start again the next day. Thanks to NetGalley and Brazos Press for the ARC.

[Angela Owen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really struggle with sleeping so this book was a must read for me. It was very interesting and gave me lots of information about sleep. It had many hints and tips on how to improve my sleep and how I’m being affected by my lack of it.

I liked how the book was laid out and I found the key takeaway points at the end of each chapter a great help.

Thanks to NetGalley, Ken Wytsma and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing resource on the importance of sleep to health and creativity, with helpful strategies for getting good sleep. Recommended.