My 2018 Book Shelf

In 2017 I read 30 books.  This was a huge effort for me.  I set my goal at 24 and was surprised by my ability to surpass it.  I did not start reading until my twenties and even since then it has not become second nature for me.  Reading has always been challenging for me but it does seem to become easier the more I do it. This year I decided to once again read 30 books and add 30 audiobooks for a total goal of 60.  I once read that a lot of successful business leaders read at least 60 books a year, and I figured if they can do it so can I. I’ve read about people reading 100 and I’m definitely not ready for that yet but enjoyed my 60 challenge.

For 2018, I read 37 books and listened to 26 audiobooks.  This was possible by watching very little TV, listening to books while walking the dog or working out, and mixing types of books (there were some youth books thrown in too).  All my audiobooks I listened to courtesy of the Denver Public Library. Books were a mix of books I’ve picked up along the way, read for book club, and borrowed from the library.
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The 2018 List and Ratings:

Here are some of my favorites.

From the Paper Books ~

5 Stars:
Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - I was blown away with this book and bought several copies to send to others.  I couldn’t stop talking about all I learned reading this book and reflecting on the magnitude of it.  Both the great outcomes, but the awful history associated with it and the racism that is so ingrained in our history.

All the Light We Cannot See - There was so much depth to this story and that is what I kept going back to in reflection.  Other stories, especially in this genre, seem to lack that and other novels tell stories where this novel you live.  It brought out emotions and the characters came to life with deserving compassion.

Rising Out of Hatred - I devoured this book despite my reluctance to wanting to.  The topic was off putting and the reality of the context is beyond disturbing.  Yet, I couldn’t put the book down and I couldn’t stop sharing what I just read to others around me.  It makes me think more about those around me - both close to me and complete strangers. It reminds me of the work we can all do towards improving humanity and spreading kindness.

4 Stars worth mentioning:
A Gentleman in Moscow - Its the Eloise for adults.  Not much more to say - to live in a hotel and to watch the people come and go and pass through.  The family of staff, the secrets, and the fantasy you can actually imagine.

In the Woods - For a mystery page turner, read this.  I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.  Plot twists and lots of character development. I’m reminded why I should read more crime thrillers.

From the Audiobooks~

5 Stars:
Sapiens - Another one that I can’t wait to read (/listen) to the follow ups.  This is everything that I didn’t learn in school but should have. History communicated in a way I can understand.

Creativity, Inc. - I love Disney.  I love Pixar. I loved reading about the behind the scenes of Pixar and business how I understand and approach it as a project manager.  When stuck in a work rut, listen to this and instantly feel inspired.

Between the World and Me - I’m on the fence about this being a 4.5 or 5 star book.  I gave it five stars but then really didn’t recall my reasoning for why.  The book did not stay with me. But I greatly appreciate the author’s openness and honesty and the ability to open my perspective to see how truly different the world can seem through different eyes.  Relevant to today’s time and key to conversations on diversity.

Born to Run - I don’t want to give anything away but can’t talk about why this was a 5 star book for me without jumping towards the end.  Listening to Bruce Springsteen tell his life story was beyond enjoyable. So much I didn’t realize about his past. But it was when he started talking about 9/11 that I said this was a 5 star book.  His willingness to discuss mental health in the public forum and initiate those discussions in a real light. We have come a long way with putting mental health in the spotlight and accepting it more but there is still a lot of work to do with the stigma associated with it and with increasing the access to and quality of treatment.  

4 Stars worth mentioning:
When Breath Becomes Air - I cried walking my dog listening to this story.  So much sadness yet so much appreciation. Why we lose these amazing people so young and tragically I will never understand.  But his passion and dedication are inspiring and reminders that I can do more and I can do better in my own life. He lived an example to follow despite his faults and weaknesses.