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The number of books I read last year was a little crazycakes. And I can guarantee will not be duplicated again. For comparison, at this time last year, I had already read twelve books. As of today, I have read two books in 2022. Oh there I am, back to my normal self.
That high number of books last year is the reason that I have thirteen favorites to share with you in this post. I narrowed it down a lot for the record, but thirteen was as low as I was willing to go. So without further ado and as always, here they are...in no particular order. Except the first one of course. Forever and always my favorite.
The Book of Mormon
It seems appropriate that I read my favorite book three times this past year. I truly just love it so much. Just a few weeks ago, I shared my thoughts on it and I still feel the same way. Oh I'm grateful for this inspired and life-changing book.
Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law
I listened to this book and I highly recommend it that way. Oh my word, I don't have the ability to share how amazing and inspiring this woman is to me. My life is really easy. Just for the record.
Your Blue Flame
Another audiobook and another recommendation to listen to it. This author truly makes me laugh out loud, which is always a favorite, but honestly, this book was just so very inspiring and helpful in how to find and do what you truly love. It left a huge impression on me.
Find Me Unafraid
This book is a true story of two people and their love for Africa and what they chose to do with that love. And how it brought them together. Oh my passion for Africa runs deep, as does my obsession with reading true stories. This is a good one.
Becoming
I've heard for years that Michelle Obama's book is a good one and I finally listened to it last year. I really love biographies. And this one was no exception. I've read many biographies of first ladies and I'm adding this one to the list of those I really enjoyed.
The Ladies Room
Oh this book makes me so happy to have on this list. Because Jacob's grandma recommended it to me and I finished it just a couple of months before she passed away. It was so light and funny and clean and just enjoyable. Nothing big or noteworthy, but I will always love it because she did.
Heaven Adjacent
I truly love this author. I've shared more than once on my Goodreads account that many of her books are like free therapy. My word she has insights into human behavior and one-liners that just stop me in my tracks. I highly recommend listening to this one. I don't know, there is just something about ordinary stories that don't try to tidy up the messy parts of life that speak to me.
The Inheritance Games
Another recommendation to listen to this particular book. (Can you tell I am an Audible fan?) It is just fun. And addicting. And clever and engaging and witty. And way out there as far as things that could actually happen. But did I care? No, no I did not. I was too busy enjoying it.
The Orphan Keeper
I struggled whether to put this book on my list or not, because with all due respect, not my favorite writing. But I still thought it was interesting and good and a bit different than most books I would normally read. And it made me think. So I included it. The end.
Spy the Lie
Another audiobook, another fascinating listen. This guy knows his stuff about deception and I just thought it was riveting beyond words. I'm now a better liar. Wait, was that the point of this book? I'm kidding. I think.
The Moonlight Child
Just a book to read that you won't be able to put down. It was sad (but not tremendously so) and interesting (but not tremendously so) and I included it because I liked it. And thought some of you might also.
The Book of Lost Names
What do I say about this book? Just listen to it. Pretty please. Or you can read it if you would like. Just make sure you don't miss it. I loved it a lot. Beautiful writing, haunting story, highly recommended.
What Happened To You?
If it were within my power to make sure ever human being listened to this book, I would do it. There are no words. I plan to listen to it again soon. For anyone who has dealt with trauma, loves someone who has been through trauma or knows that there is trauma in the world, they should give it a listen. I can't say enough good about it, Jacob listened and felt the same...I'd love if all of you did also. It's outstanding.
Okay then. That was a lot. And I'm grateful to have it over. But mostly grateful to have read all of the above books and the dozens of others I did last year. Oh reading is just the best. I'm so thankful it is a huge part of my life.
Thanks for caring friends. Carry on. Actually, more like read on.
I know I will.
PS. For anyone looking for my book favorites from previous years, here is a link that will take you to them.
It is in random order, but they are all there. As are several other posts below them you can ignore. You're welcome.