May 2023 – My Reading List

In the middle of the month, Barbara Kingsolver won a Pulitzer for her book, Demon Copperhead. I was in the process of reading (listening to) another of her novels, Flight Behaviour and it is my top pick for this month.

Still Life by Louise Penny
It is the first in her Gamache series. I am determined to work my way through all of them. They are an excellent read.

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
This is a life changing book. She is a botanist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Through storytelling and a vulnerable approach to life, she gives new meaning to understanding the importance of plants and animals to our world.

Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane
This is a bit of historical fiction about desegregation in the 1970’s. It is unsettling how similar life is today.

Lightly: How to Live a Simple, Serene, and Stress-free Life by Francine Jay
I was delighted to realize that I understood and practice a lot of her ideas but, this book is full of practical ideas for slimming down and moving away from consumerism to appreciate and value every day in a meaningful, mindful way.

Everything She Feared by Rick Mofina
Just a good thriller – full of twists and captivating.

The Obstacle is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumphs by Ryan Holiday
This was another great, practical guide to living more lightly – because, as we know, life is one ordeal to the next and we have to learn to move through our trials with positivity and an attitude that gets us to the next obstacle better and more confident.

The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson
Absolutely intriguing story with an historical context – about motherhood and all its sacrifices in a world that does not accept everyone for who they are.

On the Meaning of Sex: Thoughts about the New Definition of Woman by Kajsa Ekis Ekman
This book is a very different perspective on sexuality and what is happening in the world today. It has been highly criticized, and, as always, I don’t agree with everything. This book is extremely well researched.

What the Neighbours Saw by Melissa Adelman
Murder thriller that has the normal twists and turns – a quick, intriguing read.

The Old Girls’ Network by Judy Leigh
A fun story about moving through life with love and joy – no matter what your age.

Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen
Deception is the theme of this book – you don’t understand what is happening but, when it becomes clear, it is a fascinating read.

The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr
Interesting idea, set in Canada – the life of the overnight porter on a train – the plot was a little loose but, it had some great characters.