The Best Books I Read In 2023

Memoirs

I read more memoirs than probably any other genre. Perhaps it’s my fascination with the lives of everyday people, but I also just really enjoy looking at the world through the eyes of others. Here are my favorite memoirs that I read in 2023:

1. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Steve Jobs wasn’t your average creator. He was one of the greatest, most influential innovators of my lifetime, and I absolutely loved this glimpse into his world. Walter Isaacson remains one of my favorite authors, and I think he does a fantastic job of showing the humanity — for better or for worse — behind the human. A fantastic read for anybody who was mystified by the empire Jobs created.

2. The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl

Calling all Foo Fighter lovers! This was such a fantastic read. Actually, if you’re into audiobooks, I’d highly recommend listening to this as one its read by Dave Grohl himself, and there’s lots of little musical moments that you’ll only hear in the audio version. A true creative talent and just an overall fantastic life lived.

3. Savor: A Chef’s Hunger For More by Fatima Ali

I thought this book was an incredibly powerful read, both because it puts into perspective just how fragile life is and how quickly it can change, but also how true passion can propel us forward. Fati, who my family fell in love with on Top Chef, comes across as a fighter in every sense of the word. I loved reading about her journey and will forever be sad that the world lost her so young.

Best Fiction

4. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

Absolutely loved this book, especially the audio version. I sometimes still hear Marcellus’ voice in my head. Though somewhat predictable, I found this story so thoroughly enjoyable. There were many moments of brilliance and the storyline was endearing. Definitely give this a read if you need something light, yet feel good.

5. The Measure by Nikki Erlick

What I liked most about this book was they way it made me consider the possibility of life being predetermined. How you may think you’re in control (I certainly do!), but that from the moment your born, your story has already been written. I’m not saying I believe that at all, but I loved that this made me consider an alternate perspective.

6. Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

Another great novel that toys with the idea of predetermination and so much more. Gave me a lot of food for thought on destiny, but added the enjoyable aspect of time travel. It’s not an overly science-y book, which was nice. Easy to read, and will keep you thinking for days after finishing. I enjoyed this enough the first time that my husband and I ended up reading it with my kids last year as well.

7. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

Whimsical and full of hope. I became deeply enamored with Addie LaRue’s character and how she perseveres again and again. At times I felt her loneliness so deeply that I occasionally felt claustrophobic. An absolutely beautiful story about taking control of your life., despite the twists and turns. I didn’t want this book to end!

8. The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

Kind of gave off Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory vibes, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. A delightful, heart-warming read that will restore your faith in the world should you be losing a little bit of hope.

Non-Fiction

9. What’s Gotten Into You by Dan Levitt

Absolutely fascinating! It gets a little science heavy at times, but mostly I found this to be extremely approachable in a way that blew my mind. Truly, the idea of wrapping your head around how the solar system formed, how earth came to be life-bearing, and just how brief the existence of humans actually is… it takes my breath away. Loved this, would totally ready again.

10. How To Host A Viking Funeral by Kyle Scheele

This was the perfect book to end the year on. It’s a real life story about forgiving yourself, letting go of the past, and allowing for a clean slate in the future. I can’t think of a better way to go into the new year than with this fresh start mentality. I’m not usually a fan of books like this (kind of feels self help-y), but this one struck a chord and I enthusiastically recommend!

Wildcard

And lastly, one honorable mention: Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson. (I told you I love this author!) Alright look: a lot of people {rightfully} think that Elon Musk is a wee bit crazy. I don’t disagree. I don’t think I’d want to be his friend, neighbor, confidante, or really anything. However, there’s no denying that some of the most narcissistic, arrogant minds of our time have created some of this biggest impacts.

You can think what you want about Elon Musk as a person, but he has revolutionized the electric car industry, and that’s to say nothing of how transformative he’s been for really all of his business endeavors. Verdict is still out on X, formerly Twitter, but one thing I realized in reading this book is that he follows the same process for each project he takes one: eliminate to the point of breaking, then build back up.

Also, one more great memoir, because I truly can’t get enough of them! What Remains by Carol Radziwill. This is the story of Carol’s life, before, during, and after the loss of her husband, Anthony Radziwill (JFK’s nephew) and two of her closest friends, JFK Jr. and his wife Carolyn Bessette. On friendship, heartache, and moving forward.

Books I Didn’t Love

1. We All Want Impossible Things
2. On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous
3. Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow
4. Unmissing