Memorable books that have resonated with me are at the heart of my 2023 picks. The emotions, or knowledge, I garner from a book that is well told or well researched sparks reflection and sharing. Reading has always been my greatest love, and this blog not only celebrates an enjoyable personal journey but also leads to new adventures. This year’s No 1 is leading me to the Balkans in 2024. Reading is a never-ending adventure!
- Kassabova, Kapka (2023) Elixir: In the Valley at the End of Time. This spellbinding pilgrimage to the lush valleys of the upper Mesta river in Bulgaria is rich with connections between people, plants and place. July 2023 Picks.
- Patchett, Ann (2023) Tom Lake. A wistful and bittersweet dual-timeline narrative of lost love, destiny and choice told in the cherry orchards of Michigan. September 2023 Picks.
- Crawford, James (2022) The Edge of the Plain: How borders make and break our world. A thought-provoking book for a world obsessed by borders. June 2023 Picks.
- Galbraith, Robert (2023) The Running Grave: A Strike Novel. An epic new riveting adventure for Strike and Robin, this time involving a religious cult. October 2023 Picks.
- Vince, Gaia (2022) Nomad Century: How to Survive Climate Upheaval. Mitigating the existential threat of climate change, and survival adaptation, is the inspiring message of this timely book. November 2023 Picks.
- Sittenfeld, Curtis (2023) Romantic Comedy. A delightful and compassionate tale of a yearning heart following its desires. May 2023 Picks.
- Benge, Alie (2023) Ithaca. A wonderful collection 19 essays that explore a nomadic life and the search for ‘home’. July 2023 Picks.
- Auletta, Ken (2022) Hollywood Ending: Harvey Weinstein and the Culture of Silence. A meticulous portrait of an all-powerful predatory Hollywood mogul. January 2023 Picks.
- Bibby, Anna (2022) Learning to be French (and failing): A New Zealander, a tiny village and an ancient stone house. A delightful adventure about buying and renovating a maison de maître in the Dordogne, by a woman of a certain (dangerous) age. February 2023 Picks.
- Bogdanich, Walt, Michael Forsythe (2022) When McKinsey Comes to Town: The Hidden Influence of the World’s Most Powerful Consulting Firm. A shocking exposé on how McKinsey has directly benefited the elite, encouraged disinvestment in people, and boosted profits whilst doing untold harm to millions. April 2023 Picks.
7:30 Bookclub 