November 2023 – Books I Read

I have 7 books left to complete my goal for 2023. I love to read, listen and think and write about the books I read. I like to challenge myself to read books about different perspectives and aspects of history that I don’t understand and know much about.
I recently re-read a quote: “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.” I am not sure where this quote originates but, to me, it reinforces the importance of continuing to learn and understand different perspectives. Humble people know who they are, what they are good at, and what talents they do not have. (Jinger Dugger-Vuolo). If we are to know more about ourselves, we have to study, read and think (and write) about perspectives and thoughts (both our own and those we are exposed to through reading and relationships). Adam Grant says that reading is everything – it is how we understand and know and move forward in our learning and our life. So, I read and read A LOT – I turn off the television and read – I listen while I do jobs around my house that I find boring (like cleaning) and I listen while I do things that I enjoy (like sewing and baking and cooking). So, challenge your perspective and READ.

Enough by Cassidy Hutchinson
Cassidy is the young aide who was very close to Trump and his minions during the January 6th Insurrection. She came forward and was key to proving the criminal aspects of what happened on that terrible day. A story of courage.

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
This story is read on Audible by Meryl Streep. Honestly, there were times when I thought she was telling her own story but, of course, she wasn’t. Brilliantly read, a story of love and how life can be beautiful and a terrible mess all at the same time.

Three Sisters by O.J. Mullen
This is a psychological thriller with a VERY unpredictable ending. One chance meeting, a night that changes everything.

Summer Island by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah is a brilliant author – this is a story of mothers and daughters and the healing of forgiveness.

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant
A brilliant organizational psychologist and thinker, Adam Grant whares his thoughts and research on truly becoming the best you can be. We also feature him and this book in our 101st Episode (published on November 30, 2023).

The Whispers by Ashely Audrain
Could this story really happen? It takes you through a week of tragedy, deception, loss, envy and so much more. This is a fast read and captures your attention from page one to the last word.

The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams
This story starts with a list of books and ends with a friendship you would never predict.

The Power of a Positive Mindset: Transform Your Mind and Transform Your Life
by Jason Wolbers
Are you hoping to start a meditation practice in your life? Start with this book and a journal. It is a great day-by-day guide to helping you journal and think and start some healthy new practices in your life.

The Department of Sensitive Crimes by Alexander McCall Smith
Just a great crime-detective story…the first in the Detective Varg series – I will be reading more of these.

Jesus’ Alternative Plan: The Sermon on the Mount by Richard Rohr
What does faith really mean? How have religious institutions gotten so off track? This is a clear, challenging look at the alternative plan laid out by Jesus for all to see.

The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
Have you ever eaten Post cereal or Postum? This book is a reimagining of the life of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the American heiress and trailblazing leader of the 20th century…so much history is rolled into this story.

Written by Pam