Considering how difficult 2022 was for me, I’m surprised and pleased that I was able to read as much as I did. And I certainly enjoyed and appreciated everything I read! Some of my reading was for pure escape. Some of my choices were made to help me understand better what my husband and I were going through with his medical journey. Some of the books were like a lifeline for me. All of it important reading in one way or another, but here are my top 5 favorites of the year.
- The Birthday of the World, by Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen, touched my heart with kindness and hope.
- A Peaceful Retirement, by Miss Read, was the final book in her Fairacre series that I have been reading slowly over the years, enjoying immensely.
- Persuasion, by Jane Austen, is my favorite of her books, and it was pure solace to read it again.
- The Light We Carry, by Michelle Obama, filled my heart with hope, and has inspired me to pick up my knitting again!
But my favorite book of the year was a slim book of poetry that spoke directly to my broken heart. Living Without the One You Cannot Live Without was written by Natasha Josefowitz, just before and after the death of her husband, and it is the story of her loss and grief. I don’t know when I have ever connected so closely with a book. Her words described my own experience, and have given me a glimpse into the pathway that is unfolding in front of me. Her poetry now is a companion on my own journey, and I am so grateful that she was able to share her grief so honestly and with such elegant simplicity.
It is hard for me to say goodbye to 2022, but I look forward to another year of reading discoveries and connections, and for time spent with friends and loved ones sharing the books we are reading.
May you all have a healthy and happy 2023 filled with love and joy, and good reading!