100 Books: 5 Books Which Jumped Out
It's fun to look at deep learnings from reading - but it's also fun to look at book recommendations and reviews. Here are 5 books/series which jumped out at me and things I took away while reading in 2023.
The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien. I’ve read this book at least once every single year since I was introduced to it in 2002. Yet every time I read the Lord of the Rings series, I find new learnings. This year, I’m appreciating Meriadoc Brandybuck.I think he’s an undervalued leader - his preparation to help Frodo and the other hobbits leave the Shire. His determination in following Frodo through all adventures. Being a leader that prepares and cares about the team, and good food, is something to strive for.
Radical Inclusion by David Moinina Sengeh. This was an interesting read (or I should say listen). It makes me think of how fear drives so many actions and how it is the easy choice to stay in the safe middle instead of speaking up. The seven steps are important to me to apply as I move forward to make sure everyone is included and becomes more aware.
Iris Woodmore Mysteries by Michelle Salter. I picked these up for a comfort read - something easy, fast, and entertaining - but they definitely made me think. Looking at issues of suffrage, PTSD, abortion, medical care in 1920s England - you see how far our society has come, but also how many challenges remain universal.
The Surgeon’s Daughter (and The Girl in His Shadow) by Nora Beady. These were a book pick by our local library - and I read them to stretch my boundaries. I normally avoid anything tied to the medical field. However, diving into the history of c-sections in this work of historical fiction gave me a new perspective on medical care and the women who were brave enough to join the profession.
Agatha Christie books. There are too many books to narrow it down, especially with a goal of reading all of them - but the historical perspective and the racism that existed at the time is fascinating. And while there is some predictability in Agatha Christie stories - there is something constantly enjoyable in listening to them on walks.
