After reading mostly career nonfiction for the last few years, in 2019 I found myself drawn back to novels. There were a few books—both nonfiction and fiction—that made me look forward to otherwise unpleasant subway rides because it meant I got to spend time reading them. Categorized by type of book, but in no particular order…

Fiction

Three Wishes by Liane Moriarty

About 3 triplets in their early 30s, I loved the sister dynamics and reading about other characters experiencing this moment in life.

You Think It, I’ll Say It by Curtis Sittenfeld

A lovely collection of short stories that often made me pause and think.

The Last Romantics by Tara Conklin

Loved the writing and the length of time that this book covered. One family, many decades, layers of fascinating stories about siblings and coping with trauma.

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

I think the rest of the world agrees with me on this one. Very, very moving and sad and beautiful.

Butterflies in November by Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir

Enjoyed this story about a woman taking control of her life in Iceland. I picked it to read during our trip there earlier this year.

Nonfiction

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott

Given to me as a gift, this book had me laughing out and realizing my struggles with producing creative projects is not a unique experience.

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski

Loved learning about how the body and mind work in this book written by sisters.

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

A writer and neurosurgeon with brain cancer navigating career and life transitions. So beautifully done.

Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

Couldn’t. Put. It. Down. Seriously. The definition of resiliency and the motivation to make a change from whom you’ve been.

Simple Matters: A Scandinavian’s Approach to Work, Home, and Style by Jenny Mustard

A very pleasant read about simplicity when living what can feel like a chaotic life.

Women Rowing North: Navigating Life’s Currents and Flourishing as We Age by Mary Pipher

About women over 60, I enjoyed learning about the parts of womanhood that are exclusive and wonderful. We don’t need to dread aging after all.

A theme I’m noticing as I write this annual review is that I’ve gravitated toward reading about the work and experiences (both fictional and true) of women my age. What’s been a theme in your reading this year?

Looking for more book reviews or inspiration? Check out my fave book list from last year here.