Reading Wrap-Up 2023

I read 628 books last year. Here I share 24 (non-fiction and fiction) that stuck with me. One's that I returned to and recommended with others. They might not have made it into my most recent 100 reflections (most did), but there is a staying power in the captivating ideas presented in each of these books. I appreciate books that rely on interesting structures and extended metaphors, that prompt expansive thought, and that give insight into the human condition. Thankful to the authors for being my faithful conversation partners this past year. Here's to more reading in the new year! ​

A great reflection on the power of language and charismatic leadership.

A haunting remembrance of collective trauma and how healing happens in community. 

A beautiful theological reflection on the work of Theaster Gates and how hospitality is an artistic act. 

The structure of this book is so well hewn and supportive of the narrative. 

Loved using this book with my students. It opens the door to talking about art by providing a framework and tools for discussion.

A love story in wartime. Wish this wasn't a common trope, and yet thankful for this distinct perspective. 

If you have ever wondered, "How could they think that?!" and then considered how you could remain in conversation with the person, this book helps bridge the gap. 

While the title implies a kind of rest, this book is about observation as a connecting point with our humanity. 

For those interested in different frameworks of time. 

How do you, can you, should you quantify happiness? 

As close a look as possible on the closed system of power that is North Korea. 

Even if people choose the to wear the same thing, their life circumstances are vastly different. 

A detailed memoir by an ethnic refugee. 

The most compelling violent fiction about the prision industrial complex and the reality entertainment industry.

A doctor writes about health insurance and barriers to care thru case studies. 

What do you regret? What do you move towards? 

An illustrated guide to noticing the world around you. 

A compelling space opera with well-woven visual themes. 

A excellent primer for attentive listening. 

An immersive magic debut novel. Well written and conceived. 

I was mostly bored while reading this, but I have't stopped thinking about how we only reach our physical limit, because that is where we think the limit is. 

A page-turning amorality novella that keeps you wondering until the last word. 

An integrated practical consideration of holistic living. 

​A delightful illustrated Christmas story about participating in your creative vocation. 

P.S. If you are nerdy about stats, reading that many books only took 36 days, so not even 10% of the year. All that to say you too can read a lot of books.