Dive into Literary Bliss: 47 Books Read and Bite-sized Reviews and Must-Read Recommendations
What I read in 2023
Hi there, my fellow book enthusiasts!
As the year ends and I'm wrapped in a cozy blanket, it’s that time again — the grand reckoning of my bookish adventures! Join me, with a cup of steaming coffee in one hand and a trusty notebook in the other. Together we will reflect on a year’s worth of pure literary bliss.
I’ve underscored the titles I think you’ll love, and they’re clickable links that will take you to Thriftbooks.com. It’s this fantastic online used-book store with over 19 million titles, and the best part? They cost way less than you’d expect! Plus, by shopping there, you’re not only saving money but also shrinking your carbon footprint. And guess what? Once you’ve enjoyed the books, you can even sell them back!
Without further ado, let me spill the beans on all my latest reads — the good, the great, and the ones I could’ve happily lived without!
I am a great fan of magnet therapy and to read all about it and how it works was fascinating. The book teaches you how to do the Emotion Code on yourself and others but it takes practice to get it right, and although the thought of being an Emotion Code practitioner crossed my mind, it stayed safely tucked in in the realm of thought.
2. The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last Hermit by Michael Finkel
Looking for an astounding tale of real-life isolation, survival, and mystery? Your search ends with this book. Michael Finkel does an incredible job of bringing this enigmatic story to light.
3. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
It’s safe to say this book is a modern classic. There was so much hype around it, that I was expecting more. However, it is written by my fellow Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, and from the top of my head, he is the only Brazilian writer I know who became acclaimed internationally. So I had to read it. Good book, but did not leave me nearly as impressed as I had imagined.
4. Sexual Intelligence: What We Really Want from Sex and How to Get It by Marty Klein
This was an eye-opening and refreshing book about sexuality. Dr. Klein brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and firsthand accounts from client sessions, making this book relatable and easy to read.
5. Come As You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski
I will read anything by Emily Nagoski. A must-read for every woman.
6. Gift From the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh
A beautiful and insightful book, a calming read.
7. The Obstacle Is The Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials Into Triumph by Ryan Holiday
Ryan Holiday is a successful and famous writer, but truthfully, I thought the book was dry and a hard read.
8. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
While undeniably a classic, this literary gem didn’t quite wow me. Yet, the simple classic status compelled me to read it, though perhaps my high expectations for classics dampened the experience.
9. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
This book is amazing: interesting, thought-provoking, and uplifting. A definite must-read that left such an indelible mark on me, it’s earned a coveted spot in my ‘Read it again’ category.
10. Beautiful Country: A Memoir of an Undocumented Childhood by Qian Julie Wang
A beautiful read that gracefully gifted me with a new understanding of the struggles and challenges faced by immigrants in their relentless pursuit of a better life.
11. Eleanor Roosevelt: The Early Years by Blanche Wiesen Cook
While diving head first into American history and politics, a realm unfamiliar to me, this book occasionally tested my patience with its abundance of tiresome details. Yet, through it all, Eleanor Roosevelt left me wholly impressed, delighted, and inspired. A must-read for enthusiasts of American history.
12. The Three Secrets of Effective Time Investment: How to Achieve More Success with Less Stress by Elizabeth Grace Saunders
While a good read, I have read enough books on productivity, time management, and self-development to know that any book boasting the word ‘Secret’ on its title has yet to deliver THE secret to the elusive success we all speak of.
13. Into the Forest: a Holocaust Story of Survival, Triumph, and Love by Rebecca Frankel
My natural pull toward Holocaust literature led me to this gem, undoubtedly one of the best I’ve ever encountered. The remarkable story of a family who hid in the woods for two years during the war, kept me on edge from cover to cover. A must-read.
14. The Readhead of Auschwitz: a True Story by Nechama Birnbaum
Rosie Greenstein’s story in ‘The Redhead of Auschwitz’ is nothing short of a page-turner — awe-striking and profoundly inspirational. A must—read Holocaust book.
Remarkably, the Redhead herself is alive and well, actively sharing her story on Instagram, adding a poignant layer to this unforgettable tale.
15. Toxic Positivity: Keeping It Real in a World Obsessed with Being Happy by Whitney Goodman
As a self-professed positive-mindset junkie, Goodman’s perspective challenged my thinking and served as a powerful reminder that sometimes, ‘All that glitters is not gold.’”
One of my favorite self-development books ever! In my opinion, Gretchen Rubin is one of the best writers of our time. Do you agree?
Rubin is fascinated with the subject of happiness ( join the club!) while having an incredibly down-to-earth, brilliant, girl-next-door, practical approach to it. What’s there not to love?
17. This Is Not the Story You Think It Is: a Season of Unlikely Happiness by Laura Munson
Laura Munson’s goal isn’t to charm you, yet her inevitable allure stems from her raw vulnerability and genuine authenticity. She skillfully lifts the masks of modern-day life, revealing its intricate beauty and messy realities. Her storytelling captures the all too familiar struggles, yet she steadfastly holds onto hope and embraces the potential for transformation.
18. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
Another one of my favorite writers. Simply brilliant. A must—read.
19. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield
A soft read, Pressfield makes you feel like you walking on clouds, he lets you dream again and believe you can be the creator you were meant to be.
20. Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert
A stunning book, a must-read for every human being on the path to self-fulfillment.
21. The Mastery of Love by Don Miguel Ruiz
Captivating in its simplicity, this lovely book offers an easy-to-read, uplifting, and healing experience for readers seeking joy and love.
22. Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence by Daniel Goleman
This is a masterpiece. Not only a must-read but a must-read it again kind of book.
23. The Seven Principles to Make Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country’s Foremost Relationship Expert by John Gottman and Nan Silver
Gottman is one of my favorite relationship experts. A must-read for anyone in any kind of relationship. This book is definitely in the ‘ I wish I had read it earlier category’.
24. The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene
Who would have thought that Seduction is such a serious subject? One thing is certain, Greene did not take seduction lightly in this heavy book seemingly written with a font size of 10 (maybe even 8!). Unless you are highly interested in the topic of seduction, I am willing to bet good money you won't finish the book.
25. Among the Reeds: The True Story of How a Family Survived the Holocaust by Tammy Bottner
True to the essence of any Holocaust narrative (clearly, a genre I find utterly captivating), this book seamlessly touches the heart, inspires, and imbues readers with the resilience to forge ahead, no matter the challenges life may hurl their way.
I know Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have received a lot of backlash since going public with their stories. I, for one, loved it. I always had a soft spot for Harry, we are about the same age, and I grew up seeing him on magazine covers and ‘following’ his life from afar. Throughout the book, I felt transported through the streets of London, to the war in Iraq and the jungles of Botswana. I could not put it down.
27. The Pomodoro Technique: The Acclaimed Time-Management System That Has Transformed How We Work by Francesco Cirillo
Great insights on time management! While I didn’t fully adopt the technique, its ideas resonate strongly, prompting me to integrate certain aspects into my work routine.
28. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel Van Der Kolk
Is there another word for must-read? I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but this book is foundational, brilliant, essential, well, you get the idea. Please read it.
29. I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time by Laura Vanderkam
A heartening and empowering read for the 21st-century woman, full of real-life examples of women who are kicking ass every day.
A delightful read, Glennon has a way of making you feel lighter and empowered. By the time you reach the last page, the world seems more colorful and brighter.
As the title suggests, Sincero is a true badass. This book is not only a great easy read, but remarkably relatable, and filled with actionable wisdom.
32. Glow From Within by Joanna Vargas
Sometimes, I just need a break from the seriousness of self-development, finance, history, and relationship books and gladly indulge in a delightful glow-up read. ‘Glow From Within’ hit the spot.
33. Quantum Success: 7 Essential Laws for a Thriving, Joyful, and Prosperous Relationship with Work and Money by Christy Whitman
If you’re a wholehearted believer in the Law of Attraction, this book is a must-read for you. Nevertheless, even for those approaching it with an open mind, it stands as a good read with some truly powerful ideas.
At last, a book that provides a refreshing perspective on the world and society! A breath of fresh air, it delivers much-needed, up-to-date scientific information.
35. On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by Willian Zinsser
For writers, this is a true classic — a literary gem. While reading it for the second time, its timeless wisdom and simplicity reaffirmed this book’s status as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
36. Lucky or Smart: Secrets to an Entrepreneurial Life by Bo Peabody
In just an hour, you can breeze through this book that explores the seemingly paradoxical prerequisite to entrepreneurship — smarts or luck. Bo’s goal is to teach you not just to get lucky but to recognize those moments and seize the opportunities they present.
37. The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction Is Not a Disease by Marc Lewis
An empowering book that will open your mind, debunk myths, and provide useful information. It stands as a crucial read for anyone grappling with addiction in any shape or form.
38. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown
While Brené Brown remains one of my contemporary favorites, this book took a laser-focused approach to leadership in the workforce. It proved a bit challenging to read, leaning toward a drier and less energetic tone compared to her other engaging works.
39. Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence by Esther Perel
Yet another treasure trove from one of my favorite authors! I seem to have gravitated towards many favorites this year. I cannot sing enough praises for this timeless, exceptional book — it’s a beautiful read and an absolute page-turner.
40. The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Dr. Joseph Murray
As a newbie to the field of the subconscious mind, this book has sparked my curiosity, and I can’t wait to delve deeper into this fascinating subject. An incredibly interesting read!
41. The Miracle Morning: The Not-so-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life Before 8 am by Hal Elrod
Once again, there are no secrets in this book, and “the not-so-obvious” promise in the title was all pretty obvious to me. Not bad advice though.
42. This Is Not the End of Me: Lessons on Living from a Dying Man by Dakshana Bascaramurty
An emotional read that is certain to bring you to tears, will make you reflect on the truly important things in life.
The title says it all. Who doesn’t want to master all these things? A must-read for every woman.
44. From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way by Jesse Thistle
Thistle skillfully takes the reader on a journey through his life experiences, narrating a compelling story of resilience and determination — a tale about a man who refused to give up.
45. How to Raise Successful People: Simple Lessons for Radical Results by Esther Wojcicki
Wojcicki reveals the TRICK (trust, respect, independence, collaboration, and kindness) to raising successful people. A must-read to every parent and educator.
A quick yet powerful read to supercharge your relationship in just a week. The Gottmans, deliver once again, never failing to impress.
47. Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day by Jay Shetty
This book is the perfect finale for this list. Having followed Jay Shetty’s journey from the beginning, watching him become the world’s number-one podcaster, I am a fan. Jay’s book is full of valuable insights, great stories, awesome quotes, and all that good stuff.
And the fact that I read the book in my mind with that charming British accent of his, is just the cherry on top.
These are the titles I read this year. I’d love to hear your top recommendations, as I’m constantly on the lookout for awesome books to dive into. Please drop a comment below.
Cheers to 2024 — may it bring an abundance of books to read, knowledge to share, and stories to tell!
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through my link, I’ll get a small commission at no additional cost to you.
