The Books I Read This January
I set 23 goals for 2023. You’ll know more about them as the year goes on, but I decided, now being in a better position with my health, I want more from my life. I wrote a post about some other New Year’s goals if you want to have a read. One of those goals is to read at least 50 books. Looking at what I read this January, I did struggle as the month became a very busy one. But, I won’t let that stop me reaching my goal.
Over the last 7+ years, I haven’t been able to lose myself in a book. You know that feeling? Sat all comfy, imagination running wild, learning new parts of the world or fictional men ruining you for real ones. Although there were a few books I’d re-read over the years, I got that instant serotonin boost when I shopped at Waterstones, Book Depository or The Works these last few weeks.
Without further ado, let’s delve into the books I read this January.
This Much Is True, By Miriam Margolyes
Where, oh where to start with this book? I don’t think I have ever read a memoir so jam-packed with, what I feel, is true honesty. I always feel strange reviewing someone’s story but Miriam is truly the spokesperson for “I am who I am and I have no fucks to give”.
This book was a gift from my grandparents for Christmas 2021. But it did sit in my TBR pile until December 2022.
When I finally picked this up, I laughed out loud so many times. At some points, I was crying with laughter.
Miriam writes how she interviews. I could hear her voice as I was reading and I actually found myself reading in her cadence at times.
Of course, being a memoir, Miriam guides you through her life. Speaking about her Jewish heritage. Talks lovingly of her parents and long-term friends. Does not hold back when reliving her love life, and never minces her words on fall outs and political views.
Miriam has had an amazing career, and as someone who loves to hear anything behind the scenes, I knew this would be a memoir I’d enjoy.
There is a lot of swearing and sexual content. Just to be forewarned. But, I do 100% recommend giving this a read if you are not phased by that. A 5 star read.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.”
Pride and Prejudice is one of those books I reread yearly. It’s one of my all time 5 star favourites. A classic romance that makes me want my own Mr Darcy.
Set in the late 18th century, Pride and Prejudice follows Elizabeth Bennet, the second eldest daughter of five, all subject to their mother’s pursuit of obtaining them a successful marriage. But in a time where success is defined by the amount of money the future husband has, Elizabeth did not want to become another social ornament. A level-headed woman with no interest in the silly social standards that dictate how and who a woman should be.
This story covers familial relationships, romantic relationships, the mean girl cliques, the other love interest, the villains and, of course, personal growth.
I am a sucker for all the romantic parts of this book, but I love reading Elizabeth’s relationship with her sister Jane, her mother’s anecdotes about other characters and watching Elizabeth realise how fighting against conforming to those social standards narrowed her view.
Dear Dolly On Love Life And Friendship by Dolly Alderton
Dolly Alderton is an agony aunt columnist who has been with The Sunday Times since 2020. A best selling author, Dolly has released two books in this style of collated agony aunt asks and one fiction book titled Ghosts, which is also on my want to read list for this year.
I really liked reading how Dolly came to be an agony aunt. I too always went straight to the agony aunt sections in magazines. We do forget about the writers behind the columns.
With the columns, I find Dolly’s advice is like talking to a long-time friend. I found myself reading all these issues that may or may not happen to me and thinking “noted”. It’s definitely a light, quick read with advice you can take away or come back to.
It’d made me realise I need to read more non-fiction. 4 Stars.
What did you read this January? What’s in your tbr pile?
As always, thanks for reading…