Welcome to a special reflection on a year unexpectedly rich in literary adventures! Frankly, I never set out with the intention of charting my reading journey, let alone devouring 18 books in 2018. Yet, as with any true passion, when you genuinely love something, you find yourself immersed in it, often without a concrete plan. And so, as the year drew to a close, I found myself pausing to appreciate a collection of 18 books that had captivated my mind and heart.
My relationship with books has always been a profound one. I’ve been a lifelong reader, not necessarily a fast one, but certainly a prolific one. My personal library often sees me juggling a couple of titles simultaneously, delving into diverse subjects that span the spectrum of human experience. While I typically gravitate towards the immersive narratives of fiction novels and the intimate revelations of memoirs, I maintain an open mind to any book that sparks my curiosity or promises new knowledge. If a story is compelling or a topic intriguing, it invariably finds its way onto my reading list.
Although I haven’t extensively covered my reading habits or general book discussions here on The Healthy Maven, it’s a theme I’ve explored intermittently over the years. Some of you might recall my participation in a digital book club, where I’d share monthly updates and insights. There was even a brief attempt to launch the THM Book Club, which, despite my enthusiasm, didn’t quite take off as planned due to various commitments and no-shows. Learning from those experiences, I realized perhaps the timing wasn’t right. Instead, I decided to share this more personal reflection – a curated list of the books that truly resonated with me throughout 2018. My greatest hope is that this compilation might inspire you, whether to pick up a book for the first time in a while, discover a new author, or simply rekindle your love for reading. It brings me immense joy to share these literary companions, so without further ado, let’s delve into the 18 books that shaped my 2018.
FICTION
1. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Kicking off the year on a powerful note, this novel, which I technically finished on January 1st, was an absolute masterpiece. Adichie masterfully weaves the story of Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who immigrates to America, offering a searingly honest and deeply insightful exploration of race, identity, and the complexities of navigating African American society from a non-American African perspective. Beyond just immigration, it delves into themes of love, belonging, and the often subtle, yet profound, differences in racial identity across continents. It’s a rich, thought-provoking narrative that stayed with me long after the final page.
2. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
For those who crave a gripping fiction read infused with mystery, but without the intense psychological terror of a Gillian Flynn novel, Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” is an impeccable choice. I devoured this book in just a couple of days, utterly unable to put it down. Ng crafts a meticulous narrative exploring themes of motherhood, class, race, and the destructive power of secrets in a seemingly perfect suburban town. The intertwining fates of the Richardson and Warren families create a suspenseful and emotionally charged drama that keeps you guessing until the very end. It’s a beautifully written and compelling story that examines the choices we make and their far-reaching consequences.
3. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
This Young Adult (YA) novel is, in my opinion, essential reading for everyone, regardless of age. Angie Thomas’s “The Hate U Give” tells the poignant story of Starr Carter, who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed best friend by a police officer. It’s an incredibly timely and powerful book that illuminates the realities of racial injustice, police brutality, and the challenges of speaking truth to power. As a White American, reading Starr’s experiences offered me an invaluable perspective and a deeper understanding of issues I don’t personally face. It sparks crucial conversations about empathy, activism, and the systemic inequalities that persist in our society, making it a truly impactful and necessary read.
4. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
An utterly captivating and surprisingly profound read, “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” is far more than its title might suggest. While it offers an easy and fluid reading experience, it transcends typical chick-lit. The premise revolves around a reclusive Old Hollywood movie icon, Evelyn Hugo, who decides to tell her life story, including the truth about her glamorous career and her seven marriages, to an unknown magazine reporter. The narrative is brimming with unexpected twists and turns, delving into themes of ambition, sacrifice, forbidden love, and the price of fame. It’s a dazzling journey through a bygone era, exploring the complexities of identity and the stories we choose to tell – and those we keep hidden.
5. The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
I recently finished “The Immortalists,” and it proved to be a thought-provoking and engaging fiction novel. The story centers on four siblings who, as children, visit a psychic who predicts the exact date of each of their deaths. This singular event profoundly shapes the trajectory of their lives, leading them down four entirely different paths. As one of four siblings myself, I found myself relating to the underlying dynamics of family and the individual choices that diverge from a shared origin. Beyond that personal connection, it’s a solidly crafted story that explores themes of fate versus free will, destiny, the pursuit of desires, and the impact of a single belief on an entire existence. It’s an easy-to-follow narrative with deep philosophical undertones.
6. Call Me by Your Name by Andre Aciman
To be entirely transparent, “Call Me by Your Name” wasn’t my favorite literary experience of the year. While it garnered immense praise and adoration from many readers, I personally found the pacing to be exceedingly slow, almost to the point of tedium. There’s an undeniable poetic quality to Aciman’s prose and a deep exploration of first love and longing, but for my taste, the narrative unfolded at a languid pace that tested my patience. I felt a distinct sense of relief upon finishing it. However, I’ve heard countless positive reviews of the movie adaptation, suggesting it might capture the emotional essence of the story in a way that better suits my preferences. It’s definitely on my watchlist to give the narrative another chance.
7. Rich People Problems by Kevin Kwan
This book marks the delightful conclusion to Kevin Kwan’s “Crazy Rich Asians” trilogy. Though I technically started it in late 2017, I eagerly finished it in January, so it absolutely earns its spot on my 2018 list! If you’re in search of an utterly undemanding, escapist read that requires minimal mental effort, this entire series is an absolute joy. Kwan’s novels offer a hilarious and often outrageous glimpse into the opulent world of Singapore’s wealthiest families. “Rich People Problems” continues the lavish drama, comedic misunderstandings, and heartwarming romance, providing pure entertainment. It’s the perfect antidote for a stressful day, offering a vibrant, glamorous, and thoroughly enjoyable distraction.
NON-FICTION/MEMOIRS
8. Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover
Without a doubt, “Educated” stands as my favorite book of the year. I have a deep appreciation for compelling memoirs, and Tara Westover’s story was truly impossible to put down. It chronicles her extraordinary upbringing in a fundamentalist Mormon survivalist family in rural Idaho, where formal education was eschewed in favor of preparing for the end of the world. Her journey of self-discovery, fueled by an insatiable hunger for knowledge, is nothing short of breathtaking. It is a gripping, deeply moving, and at times heartbreaking account of family loyalty, intellectual awakening, and the courage to forge one’s own path against immense odds. Ultimately, it is a testament to the transformative power of education and personal redemption. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
9. Season of the Witch by David Talbot
This book defies easy categorization, residing somewhere between rigorously researched history and compelling historical narrative, though perhaps not strictly historical fiction. David Talbot’s “Season of the Witch” delves into the tumultuous and transformative period of San Francisco from the early 1960s through the early 1980s. It vividly chronicles the city’s rise as a counterculture mecca, exploring the pivotal figures – from politicians and musicians to cult leaders and activists – who shaped its unique identity. If you reside in the vibrant Bay Area or possess a keen interest in the cultural shifts and untold stories behind one of America’s most iconic cities, this book offers an incredibly rich and often unsettling journey into its past.
10. Empty Mansions: The Mysterious Life of Huguette Clark by Paul Clark Newell Jr. and Bill Dedman
My acquisition of “Empty Mansions” was a complete serendipitous whim late one night in Minnesota. Having just finished another book, I was browsing Amazon’s recommendations when this title caught my eye. What followed was an absolutely fascinating deep dive into the life of Huguette Clark, an enigmatic heiress to a vast mining fortune. The book meticulously unravels the century-long saga of her reclusive existence, her immense wealth, and the strange, often heartbreaking, circumstances surrounding her final decades spent in hospitals, despite owning multiple extravagant properties. It’s a compelling narrative that combines biography, true crime, and an exposé of family secrets, leaving the reader pondering the true cost of immense fortune and profound isolation.
11. What Made Maddy Run by Kate Fagan
This was the sole book on my 2018 list that I didn’t read on Kindle, a thoughtful gift from my friend Kait Hurley. I picked it up and literally couldn’t put it down, devouring it in just two days. Kate Fagan’s “What Made Maddy Run” tells the heart-wrenching story of Madison Holleran, a gifted collegiate athlete who tragically took her own life. The book meticulously explores the immense pressure of perfectionism, the hidden struggles with mental health in the college environment, and the challenges of adapting to new social and academic landscapes. For anyone who has navigated the demanding landscape of college life or grapples with the relentless pursuit of perfection, this book is an incredibly important and empathetic read, shedding crucial light on the silent battles many face.
12. I’ll be There For You by Kelsey Miller
Kelsey Miller’s latest offering, “I’ll Be There For You,” is a delightful departure from her previous work and one I absolutely adored. This book is a meticulously researched and engaging deep dive into everyone’s beloved 90s sitcom, *Friends*. Beyond simple nostalgia, Miller explores the cultural implications of the show, examining its groundbreaking themes, its undeniable impact on popular culture, and how it continues to resonate with audiences today. She dissects its humor, its controversies, and its enduring legacy, offering fresh insights into why this particular group of six friends captured the hearts of millions. Whether you’re a devoted *Friends* enthusiast or simply curious about its cultural phenomenon, this book is a fantastic and entertaining read.
SELF-DEVELOPMENT/EDUCATIONAL
13. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
I actually revisited “You Are a Badass” this year, finding it as impactful as my first read several years ago. I initially thought it would serve as an excellent kick-off for the ill-fated THM Book Club (RIP), and it proved to be a powerful refresher. Jen Sincero’s book is a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to overcoming self-doubt and unlocking your full potential. It’s a fantastic “kick in the butt” for anyone caught in a cycle of limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging narratives. Sincero’s witty, conversational style and actionable advice empower readers to embrace their inner strength, manifest their desires, and stop holding themselves back. It’s a perennial go-to for a burst of motivation and a shift in mindset.
14. The ONE Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
This book was the second selection for the THM Book Club, and while it didn’t save the club, it certainly offered valuable insights. “The ONE Thing” provides a compelling framework for focusing your energy and efforts on what truly matters. It’s an excellent read if you’re looking to refine your priorities, hone in on your most important interests, and learn to strategically allocate your time for maximum impact. While I’ll be honest that not all of the advice felt entirely practical or easily implementable in the chaotic realities of daily life, I did glean a significant number of valuable strategies and principles from the authors. It effectively shifted my perspective on goal setting and productivity, encouraging a more focused approach.
15. The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer
Another re-read that proved incredibly timely and beneficial, “The Untethered Soul” is a book I consistently turn to whenever I feel the need for spiritual alignment and mental clarity. This year, I found myself reaching for its wisdom quite frequently. If you’re seeking a book that helps you cultivate inner peace, understand the nature of consciousness, and learn to positively disassociate from the incessant chatter of your thoughts, this book is an absolute must-read. Michael A. Singer offers profound insights into how to observe your thoughts and emotions without becoming entangled in them, fostering a deeper sense of freedom and presence. It’s a transformative guide for anyone on a journey of self-awareness and spiritual growth.
16. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Sri Swami Satchidananda
While this was technically mandatory reading for my yoga teacher training, I’m genuinely thrilled that it became a part of my reading year. Prior to YTT, I might not have naturally gravitated towards it, but I’m incredibly grateful for the experience. To be honest, I’m unsure how accessible this ancient text would be without the invaluable guidance and interpretive insights of a knowledgeable yoga instructor. However, each sutra, regardless of one’s background, is rich with profound philosophical wisdom, prompting deep contemplation and offering timeless guidance for living a meaningful life. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or simply someone seeking deeper understanding, the principles within provide ample food for thought and sage advice for navigating the human experience. (We also had to read The Living Gita, but I decided against including two YTT mandatory books on my main list!)
17. Chakra Healing: A Beginner’s Guide by Margarita Alcantara
This book wasn’t my initial choice when I decided to delve deeper into the fascinating world of chakras, but the title I originally sought wasn’t available on Kindle, leading me to Margarita Alcantara’s guide. While I occasionally found some parts of the book to be a bit repetitive, it nonetheless served as an excellent introductory resource. For anyone looking to understand the seven main energy centers of the body and explore holistic ways to support their balance – through practices like yoga, essential oils, meditation, and mindful living – this book provides a comprehensive and accessible overview. It lays a solid foundation for beginners to embark on their journey of chakra knowledge and energetic well-being.
18. Medical Medium by Anthony William
I’ll confess, I long resisted picking up “Medical Medium,” my inherent skepticism making me wary of embracing what felt like a pervasive trend. For context, Anthony William claims to be a medical medium who channels divine guidance on health and illness. Is it as “over the top” as it sounds? Yes, absolutely. I firmly believe its contents should not be taken purely at face value, nor do I think celery juice holds the miraculous cure to all ailments. HOWEVER, I found the information presented to be surprisingly interesting and some of the insights, particularly regarding herbal supplements, proved quite useful. When I experienced shingles, I cautiously incorporated some of his suggestions alongside my prescribed antivirals. While the antivirals were crucial, it certainly felt beneficial to have a few extra supplements providing holistic support. It’s a book to approach with an open mind, but also with a healthy dose of discernment.
Honestly, my reading list for 2018 included a few other miscellaneous books, covering everything from the practicalities of essential oils to the mystical realm of tarot. However, I felt that concluding with 18 distinct recommendations offered a good, and perhaps even lucky, number to reflect on the year’s literary journey. This collection represents the diverse interests and learning experiences that enriched my life throughout the year. I genuinely hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into my reading world. Please do let me know if this kind of content resonates with you and if you’d like me to continue sharing my book discoveries on The Healthy Maven in the coming year.