My 2022 Holiday Reading List
One of the best things about the holidays is spending time with family. There’s a lot of cooking and cleaning and, with my nieces around, a lot of playing as well. I’m blessed to have a big family and I love every minute of it. But, every once in a while I like to catch my breath and do something just for myself. I’ll fill a glass with water and curl up in a corner somewhere out of sight and indulge in a book. This is what I’m reading these holidays:
Fiction
Dreamland by Nicholas Sparks
I’ve read 10 of Nicholas Sparks’ 24 books so far. I am that big a fan. I’m still in the first few chapters of this new book so I can’t really say much about it but, I’m already enjoying it. To quote part of the back of the book, “Dreamland is a poignant love story about risking everything for a dream, and whether it’s possible to leave the past behind.”
Paris for One and Other Stories by Jojo Moyes
I read this book during my final year at varsity. It was a library book and I had to return it but, it’s remained such a favourite that I just had to get myself a copy. It’s a book of 11 short stories written lightly and beautifully. My favourite stories are Crocodile Shoes and Margot. They emphasise the power of appearance and the transformative nature of a red Chanel lipstick (wink wink). You might be familiar with one of Jojo Moyes’ famous books, Me Before You.
Non-fiction
You Can Burn Those Crutches Now! by ’Maboitumelo Pitso
I got a copy this morning and was especially intrigued by the chapter on educational factors. A few days ago, I was thinking of how sad it is that as a business school graduate, I am intimidated by the idea of starting a business. In the chapter, she talks about how our educational curricula aren’t designed for our people and our challenges. As a graduate who’s been crippled by the idea of ‘I have a degree so I breathe better air’ but with nothing to show for it (unemployment), I felt free with each sentence I read. It was written by a Mosotho lady, which is why it is so relatable.
The Untethered Soul Guided Journal by Michael A. Singer
Okay here’s the thing, when Oprah tells you to read a book, you read the book! I listened to a podcast episode of Oprah’s Supersoul Conversations and was inspired by her interview with Micheal Singer. Later I bought the book, The Untethered Soul. A mindfulness book like this one requires the reader to constantly go back, reread and reflect. For Christmas this year, my brother-in-law and friend got me its complimentary guided journal. It is so much more helpful and interactive. This book is about understanding who we truly are, a journey beyond self.
“There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing you are not the voice of the mind - you are the one who hears it. Come to know the one who watches the voice (the true you) and you will come to know one of the great mysteries of creation.”
