NOV & DEC.2023

Jan 01, 2024

As I close the final pages of the 40th book this year, I can't help but marvel at the journey that has unfolded. If you spare me the indulgence, I'd love to share some of the unexpected insights and transformations that occurred during this last year's literary voyage.

The Journey Unfolds:

In December 2022, I realized that I had comfortably read 20 books. My reading pace was leisurely, with about one-third of a book per week and approximately 1.75 books per month. At that time, I didn't have any established reading habits. I would ask myself if I wanted to read and then grab a book to start reading. With this in mind, I challenged myself by adding five more books to my reading list for the new year. Little did I know what was to come in 2023.

Personal Growth:

I've realized the power of adopting and incorporating a reader's identity into my self-perception. As I continuously reaffirmed my identity to see myself as a reader, I've noticed a positive influence on my habits. It's become easier for me to consistently take actions like making time to read. This newfound identity empowers me to prioritize and genuinely enjoy the process of reading, revealing a fulfilling aspect of myself that I hadn't fully recognized before.

Unexpected Discoveries:

The most surprising book I read this year was Trust by Hernan Diaz. Without a doubt, this novel ultimately held me within its grasp the entire time. Just when I thought I had the book entirely figured out, Diaz slipped the rug out from under me by shifting the story's perspective and questioning every word I had previously read. This reminds me that each book holds its own unique value, and seldom can it be accurately compared to another.

Challenges and Triumphs:

Every journey has its hurdles, and this reading challenge was no different. Since I logged the days I read, I noticed a pattern in my reading habits during the last few months of the year. I tend to power read in the last two weeks of each month, which makes me feel like I am overreading for that month and deserve a break. However, I know this is not a sustainable approach, so I need to plan my reading schedule accordingly in the next year.

Celebrating Milestones:

One book that holds a special place in my heart is Close To Home, authored by Michael Magee. The approval of the galley for this book was a significant milestone for me, as it marked my first professional relationship with the world of literature and publishing. This experience transformed my hobby of reading into a more serious pursuit, and I am excited to see where it will take me in the future

Looking Ahead:

I have exceeded my original goal, and in doing so, I have realized my potential to accomplish my set goals. Previously, I would have been afraid of the number of books I have read this year, but this experience has given me valuable insights into my feelings toward goal setting. I will not shy away from scary opportunities and problems in the coming new year. Having found my silent confidence, I am ready to step outside my comfort zone and see myself through to the end.

Before I go with my new insights and discoveries, I want to leave you with these parting prompts that I will also reflect on tonight. Use these to help you appreciate your journey this year and allow you to see your intentions for the next chapter. Embrace the lessons learned and carry forward the wisdom into the new year.

1. Finish the sentence: "2023 was the year that I..."
2. List highlights and accomplishments from 2023 that you're proud of.
3. Identify what worked in 2023, your wins, positive habits, or adopted beliefs.
4. Acknowledge what didn't work in 2023. Name at least three mistakes or failures and note what you learned from them.
5. Reflect on what you learned in 2023, whether life lessons or new skills acquired.
6. Consider how your life evolved in 2023, reflecting on personal growth or changes.
7. Express gratitude for aspects of 2023 you're most grateful for.

Happy New Year! Thank you for being here and coming along for the ride with me.

Currently reading:

Prophet Song
by Paul Lynch

The winner of the Booker Prize 2023, Prophet Song presents a terrifying and shocking vision of a country sliding into authoritarianism and a deeply human portrait of a mother's fight to hold her family together.

Lynch’s dystopian Ireland reflects the reality of war-torn countries, where refugees flee to escape prosecution. Prophet Song echoes the violence in Palestine, Ukraine and Syria, and the experience of all those who flee from war-torn countries. This is a story of bloodshed and heartache that strikes at the core of the inhumanity of western politicians’ responses to the refugee crisis.

Buy now

Recommendations

Day
by Michael Cunningham

In Michael Cunningham's novel "Day," we're invited into the lives of a family as they navigate the ups and downs of three consecutive April days in 2019, 2020, and 2021. The focus is on siblings Isabel, Robbie, and Isabel's husband, Dan. Their relationships and living situations shift against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, even though the pandemic itself isn't explicitly mentioned. You can sense its impact through the characters' increasing isolation as borders close and life takes unexpected turns.

Cunningham beautifully uses the family members' conversations and thoughts to dive into themes of home, identity, and the deep longing for connection. Robbie, especially, grapples with creating an online identity to combat his feelings of loneliness. The writing has this tender quality that lets you peek into the characters' lives without any dramatic exaggerations. Even though the story touches on loss and tough times, Cunningham's empathy and humor keep it grounded, steering clear of anything overly sentimental.

Buy now