I am an avid reader (or listener if I am out hiking) and I am inspired by many I have read. However, some are more inspiring than others and some, I will read or listen to more than once. 2023 has been a different year for me with many things happening on many fronts and certain books have been with me through good times and bad, keeping me going and giving me new perspectives. Here is my list from number one to number five.
- Walk Yourself Happy by Julia Bradbury. I was waiting for this to appear on the market and was not disappointed when it arrived. It is my book not just of 2023 but the best I have read in a while. I first listened to it while hiking in a German forest and again hiking on the Feldberg mountain near Frankfurt. It was not an easy time and the hope that came from that book motivated me, not only to walk but look at the science behind it and look at what I eat, when I eat, how I breathe, sleep and my daily routine. I reviewed this book in a blog post here. I can recommend it to anyone. “Walk Yourself Happy,” serves as a compelling exploration of the physical and psychological benefits of walking. Grounded in her passion for nature and a personal commitment to walking, the book offers readers a journey into the transformative power of this simple yet useful activity, that we can all practice mostly on our doorstep.
- You Are The One You‘ve Been Waiting For by Richard Schwartz. As a therapist who practices IFS, I am always happy to read anything by the founder of the method. This book helped me to turn attention inward and to consolidate the parts work I practice on myself. The book is a profound and insightful book that delves into the world of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Schwartz, the creator of IFS, articulately presents the concept of the inner family – a unique ensemble of ‘parts’ within each individual, such as managers, firefighters, and exiles, each playing a distinct role in our psyche. The book is especially enlightening in explaining how these parts interact and how understanding and harmonizing them can lead to a more integrated, fulfilling life. Schwartz’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex psychological concepts understandable to a general audience. He combines real-life examples with therapeutic insights, providing a practical approach to self-healing and self-compassion. The book shines in its emphasis on self-leadership, encouraging readers to become their own wise, caring leaders, capable of healing their internal wounds. One of the most impactful aspects of the book is its application to relationships. Schwartz illustrates how recognizing and addressing our inner parts can lead to healthier, more authentic connections with others. His approach is not about finding the perfect partner to ‘complete’ us, but rather about becoming more whole ourselves, thereby enhancing our relationships. Overall, “You Are The One You’ve Been Waiting For” is a transformative read, offering valuable tools for personal growth and relationship improvement. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in psychology, self-help, or personal development.
- The Minds of Billy Milligan by Daniel Keyes. I was fascinated in this story, not just as a therapist but how Billy Milligan could basically trick the best minds at the time. It is a compelling and thought-provoking true story that delves into the complex world of mental illness and the legal system. The book chronicles the life of Billy Milligan, who was the first person in U.S. history to be acquitted of a major crime by reason of multiple personalities, now more commonly known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). Keyes, known for his sensitivity and depth in exploring psychological subjects, as evident in his famous work “Flowers for Algernon,” brings a similar touch to this book. He meticulously details Milligan’s harrowing journey, from his abusive childhood to his struggles with 24 distinct personalities. The narrative is immersive, taking the reader deep into the psyche of Milligan, and providing a vivid portrayal of each personality. What stands out in this book is Keyes’ ability to humanize Milligan, avoiding sensationalism. He presents a balanced view, acknowledging the severity of Milligan’s crimes, while also shedding light on the profound suffering and confusion caused by his mental illness. The legal and psychiatric complexities surrounding Milligan’s case are explored in detail, offering insight into the challenges of dealing with DID within the legal framework. The book also serves as a critique of the mental health and legal systems of the time, highlighting the lack of understanding and resources for treating complex psychiatric conditions. The ethical dilemmas faced by the professionals involved in Milligan’s case are particularly thought-provoking. However, some readers might find the level of detail overwhelming, and the narrative can be emotionally heavy due to the nature of Milligan’s experiences (and crimes). The book also raises important questions about the nature of identity, responsibility, and the human mind, making it a significant read for those interested in psychology, law, and ethics.
- The Rise and Fall of The Third Reich by William Shirer. As a bit of a history buff and having lived in Germany for many years, this book was a must for me. It is still hard to comprehend how the Nazis were actually just handed power when their popularity was on the wane. I first read it in 1995 and listened to the audio version this year (all 45 hours of it). It is a comprehensive and detailed chronicle of Nazi Germany from its early beginnings to its downfall in 1945. Shirer, who was a correspondent in Germany during much of the Nazi regime, offers a unique perspective, blending firsthand observation with extensive historical research. One of the book’s strengths lies in its meticulous detail. Shirer provides in-depth analyses of major events, key figures, and the ideological foundations of Nazism, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in World War II history. His account of Hitler’s rise to power and how he manipulated the political system and public opinion is particularly insightful. However, the book’s length and the density of details can be overwhelming for some readers. While it’s rich in information, the sheer volume of content might be daunting for those looking for a more concise history. Shirer’s narrative is also subject to the limitations and biases inherent in a single perspective. Some critics argue that he occasionally overlooks broader socio-economic factors in favour of a more personality-driven explanation of events. Despite these considerations, “The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich” remains a seminal work in the field of 20th-century history. Its exhaustive approach and unique viewpoint make it a must-read for serious students of history, although casual readers might find it challenging.
- “The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction is Not a Disease” by Marc Lewis: This is a thought-provoking book that challenges conventional views on addiction. Lewis, a neuroscientist and former addict, argues that addiction is not a disease but rather a result of the brain’s natural learning and developmental processes. He presents a compelling case by combining personal stories, including his own, with scientific research to illustrate how desires become addictions. The book delves into the neurobiology of addiction, explaining how it alters the brain’s structure and function. Lewis provides a detailed yet accessible overview of how brain circuits and neurochemicals like dopamine play a role in addiction. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional and environmental factors that lead individuals to addiction, shifting the focus from a purely biological interpretation. One of the book’s strengths is its humanizing approach to addiction. Lewis reframes addiction as a part of the spectrum of human experience, not as a distinct pathological state. This perspective encourages a more empathetic and effective approach to treatment, moving away from the stigma, moralizing and shame that often accompany discussions of addiction. However, some readers might find Lewis’ rejection of the disease model of addiction controversial, particularly those who find comfort and support in traditional disease-centric models. His views might also clash with established medical and therapeutic practices that treat addiction as a chronic disease and of course, the Pharma industry that makes billions out of it.
So, these are my top reads for 2023. They are all special to me in different ways……
