Reading 2023: Memoirs all year long

I would say I’m surprised that it’s almost the end of March 2023 already, however, the way time’s been running along, it feels like the new year has just begun (for me anyway).

With a new year comes new reading adventures and I am here for it. This year I’m taking a different and ‘novel’ approach to my official reading list.

After a year of reading multiple genres, based on last year’s list I decided to focus on a single genre of writing for this year, therefore the list will comprise memoirs and biographies only. I was inspired in part by Viola Davis’s memoir which reminded me of the power of a well written tale of someone’s life. It also connected me with the story of an artist that I admire.

As with anything I do, the list of memoirs are eclectic and will cover many areas, while still satisfying my interest in the lives of the people being chronicled.

The other big change is that I won’t be assigning specific months for reading as I’ll be taking these books on as I’m led.

 I do hope you love my book selections and will be inspired enough to choose a fave or two from the list. Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Dust Tracks on a Road: An Autobiography (P.S.) by Zora Neale Hurston

I read Their Eyes Were Watching God years ago and since that time I’ve been committed to connecting with Zora Neale Hurston as much as possible. I got one step closer last year when I read Barracoon   so it is only fitting that this year I read her autobiography.  Get your copy here .

The Urgent Life: My Story of Love, Loss, and Survival by Bozoma Saint John

Many years ago I discovered Bozoma Saint John when she was head of marketing at Apple Music. I was fascinated by her sheer presence. She seems to own every moment she inhabits in a world that often doesn’t acknowledge or appreciate black women. Since that time, she has made several career moves, so when I discovered she was publishing this book, I was excited by the prospect to get to know more about her in a deeper way. Get your copy here.

Sugar in the Blood: A Family’s Story of Slavery and Empire by

As I continue to look at the history of slavery, colonisation and conquest, this particular memoir provides another perspective that we don’t often get to observe. Even as I explore my own history and that of my ancestors, peeling back the layers continues to reveal more. Get your copy here.

 Spare by Prince Harry

Curiosity has gotten the best of me and I wanted to read his words, unfiltered. Not to understand but to know. Not much more to it. Get your copy here.

I’ll Never Write My Memoirs by Grace Jones

Grace Jones has existed for my entire life and it feels as if she has lived so many lifetimes. This Jamaican superstar is the epitome of where I come from is not where I have to stay. I can’t wait to learn more about her incredible life, so far. Get your copy here.

From Harvey River: A Memoir of My Mother and Her Island by Lorna Goodison

I’ve loved the work of Lorna Goodison ever since I encountered ‘Bella Makes Life’ in high school. This book is also touching on another area of my fascination, Jamaica in the past. Get your copy here.

Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

The premise of this book connects with me due to the abnormal childhood of the author. Education has been such an important benefit to my life, it is interesting to learn just how it changed the author’s own life. Get your copy here.

A Visible Man: A Memoir by Edward Enninful

Edward Enninful first grabbed my attention based on his work and association with Naomi Campbell. That he is now editor of British Vogue is no small feat and I am fascinated by the life of someone with such a powerful position in media. I’m looking forward to learn even more about his background and his rise. Get your copy here.

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

I’ve been an adult for a while so I was not exactly the target audience for Jennette McCurdy’s work on iCarly back in the day. I was however obsessed with SpongeBob Squarepants, so invariably, I came into contact with her work on the show. The title of her memoir grabbed me and as irreverent as it sounds, I want to explore.  Get your copy here.

My aim this year is to have fun while learning and being inspired. Here’s hoping these books as well as any additional novels I read will help me to accomplish that. Let me know what you are reading this year.

Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!

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