In 2023 I read 103 books, over 30,000 pages!
Well, many of them were on audio, but that absolutely counts. I fell into these stories, learned so much, and am eager to dive into my ever-growing reading list once again this year.
But, before I get too far, I wanted to share my top five books. The ones I unequivocally want you to read too!
The Unmaking of June Farrow
I’ve now read two books by Adrienne Young and she has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I listened to “The Unmaking June Farrow” in less than two days and cannot recommend this story enough! With a mix of magic, mystery, scandal, and heartfelt relationships – this one will keep you thinking long after the last chapter.
These Silent Woods
A low fright mystery is always up my alley and “These Silent Woods” did not disappoint. A total page turner! It’s about a father and daughter who live off the land in the Appalachian mountains with very little contact … until, well, things change and the past begins to impact their future.
Edge of Collapse series
I will confess, apocalyptic dramas are one of my very favorite genres to both read. I flew through this entire series and then recommended it to my bestie. She loved it too! It can be a harder one to find on audio, but if you join Scribd you get 60 days of listening for free … and trust me, you can easily finish all seven books in 60 days.
Marmee
If you love Little Women, you will adore “Marmee” – a retelling from the mother’s perspective. This reimagined story will leave you wanting more from author Sarah Miller and lucky for you, she has also written Caroline: Little House, Revisited. I vote for a Marilla from “Anne of Green Gables” and maybe even a Miss Honey from “Matilda”.
The Clan of the Cave Bear
In contrast to the many new releases, “The Clan of the Cave Bear” was published in 1980. But, since it takes place in Ice Age, that is no matter. This is not my normal time period or genre but I fell hard for this book. It follows a young girl, Ayla, and her immersion into the Clan; with all its nuances and traditions. Ayla is a wonderful main character, one you truly get to know and root for from beginning to end. Daryl Hannah starred in a film of the book (which is a rough watch, but still fun if you end up enjoying the book as much as I did).
Ready for a bonus …
I’ll report one favorite non-fiction too – Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less – although, I definitely appreciated fiction stories much more this year.
And, when it comes to family read alouds you cannot go wrong with Gary D. Schmidt’s new book, The Labors of Hercules Beal, especially if you’re family has interest in Greek mythology as it’s woven into a modern day tale of two brothers, a creative school assignment, and a beautiful lesson in growing up.