It's that time of the year! 🎄

It's finally time to recollect and reflect on all that we've done this year — perhaps, pluck a page from the greatest moments of learning and enjoyment.

And what's a better way to do that than reflecting on the best books we've read this year.

Roman Stories by Jhumpa Lahiri

We don't know if we would ever not wait for a Jhumpa Lahiri book. Originally written in Italian, Roman Stories is Lahiri's latest book that features native and non-natives of Rome. Do they ever feel like they belong? In these short stories Lahiri explores this theme, where strangers seem familiar.

Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann

This recommendation comes from our visual designer, Palak Soni. 👇

She says, "Killers of the Flower Moon delves into a chilling chapter of history, uncovering the systemic corruption and crimes against the Osage people. David Grann’s detailed research and writing make it a compelling and thought-provoking read, providing insights into a lesser-known aspect of the American past. Besides, it also highlights the need for awareness of historical injustices and the ongoing importance of protecting the rights and dignity of marginalized communities."

Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

If there's one book people couldn't stop talking about in 2023, it's Yellowface. Written by R.F. Kuang (known for her books like The Poppy War and Babel), Yellowface (thanks to its bright yellow cover) stirred quite a storm on TikTok and Instagram. Dark and funny, this book is about June, who steals a dead writer's unpublished work and publishes it as hers. Will truth ever come out?

Cosmos by Carl Sagan

This recommendation comes from our community manager, Shubham Tiwari, who says it's one of the best books he read in 2023. It's like Carl Sagan whispering some of the most profound secrets of the universe in your ear to make you feel human again. It's the science of our dreams. It's the science of our future, and more importantly, it's the science of being human.

Pure Cosmos Club by Matthew Binder

Pure Cosmos Club is such a serendipitious find! I remember discovering it while going through 100s of books on Amazon, and the cover made me click on it. The book is narrated from the male protagonist's pov and his takes on the art world and pretentious characters that accompany it. If you enjoy dark humor, you must read this.

Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman

Oliver Burkeman’s Four Thousand Weeks comes **with excellent advice, tips, and best practices on time management. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, the desire to best optimise your time is natural, and this book suggests we all have limited time and we can reach our maximum potential only through discipline. Plus, it’s got insights from philosophers, leaders, and psychologists.

The Anatomy of Story by John Truby

Yet another recommendation from Shubham Tiwari! The breakdown of storytelling in 22 steps by Hollywood's most sought-after story consultant tells you how the written word is translated into a visual medium, i.e. cinema.

Make Something Wonderful by Steve Jobs

Earlier this year, Apple released Make Something Wonderful from its archives, and put it up for free reading online. Written by Steve Jobs, this book is a collection and curation of his best speeches, interviews, and his thoughts. You get to know more about his childhood and life — if you've already read his biography, this one is a fine addition to your reading list.

Diary of a Void by Emi Yagi

Emi Yagi's Diary of a Void has been trending on TikTok, and I'd be lying if I say I am not inclined to Booktok recommendations. The protagonist, Shibata, a lonely woman in her 30s, works at an unreasonable workplace, and deals with intrusive colleagues. They transform into angels when she (fakes) pregnancy. Shibata has a voice — one that nonchalantly judges society and the world around her.

Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport

Spending too much time on the internet? Surely you know there's way too much noise and clutter — that's why we should step back and practice digital minimalism often. Cal Newport's Digital Minimalism offers advice on minimising digital consumption and screen time along with real-life examples. We’ve been able to exponentially cut down our screen time, thanks to this book.

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