My Top Books of 2023: The Best Fiction and Non-Fiction Including Yoga Books
As 2023 comes to a close, I’m looking back on the year! For me it’s been a busy one, and taking some time to reflect gives me the opportunity to spot where I’ve learnt or grown, the times when I overstretched myself (and should have said ‘no’!), and some amazing time spent with the Worker Bee community! One thing that I was very pleased about in my reflections this year, was that I’ve read a lot of books - a combination of fiction and non-fiction. I know that when I’m reading I’m generally a happier human, so this is something I’m definitely looking to bring forward into 2024.
Every Monday morning in my newsletter The Honeycomb, I share what I’m watching, reading or trying (wellness activities ‘off the mat’) with the hope of inspiring my community to make small positive changes to improve their life.
As many of you have told me how much you enjoy reading my book reviews, this article rounds up my top fiction and non-fiction books that I’ve reviewed in 2023. I hope you enjoy browsing the list, and if you fancy treating yourself or a loved one to a new book then I’ve included the link to purchase them via Bookshop,com - an online bookshop that supports local bookshops (and for full disclosure I also get a few pence when you place an order!)
Top 5 Fiction Books of 2023
Let’s kick off with fiction. Here’s the top 5 novels I’ve read and reviewed in 2023 (drum roll please)…
5. Once Upon A River by Diane Setterfield
Once Upon A River is a novel set in the 1800s that weaves a tale of mystery and magic along the banks of the Thames River. The story begins with the discovery of a seemingly lifeless girl who miraculously returns to life. The narrative unfolds as multiple characters claim her as their own, each with their own version of her origin.
The book explores themes of explores themes of identity, family, love, and money / class... with a sprinkling of folklore and magic! Setterfield's storytelling is brilliant - you really feel like you're there and can empathise with lots of different characters along the way.
Overall "Once Upon a River" is a beautifully crafted tale that will keep you guessing until the very end. I found it to be an enchanting read, it really transported me outside of my day to day life and into bygone times :)
This book was lent to me by one of my students - so thank you Liz for this cracker! If you've got a book recommendation then I'd love to know - drop me a line at hannah@workerbeeyoga so I can get your book on my 2024 list.
4. The Middle Daughter by Chika Unigwe
This novel is set in Nigeria, and follows the story of 'the middle daughter' Nani. We get to know how she grows up and finds herself trapped in an abusive marriage, and her journey to personal freedom.
The book explores some really interesting themes including religion, "baby factories", sisterhood, grief and vindication. There is a particularly dark part of the story where I lost all hope for Nani and almost put the book down, but I would advise you to persevere as it does get better!
Overall a good read that brings to life contemporary Nigeria and family dynamics. The characters are flawed but the majority are likeable and you feel like you're really getting into their heads. Although I finished the book thinking it was an excellent read, the ending was a little rushed for me.
I would recommend this book as it’s one that I really remember from the past 12 months, and it really made me think about the topics raised in the book long after I finished it.
3. Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason
"Sorrow and Bliss" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of mental health with refreshing wit and raw emotion. The story follows the tumultuous life of Martha, a sharp and witty protagonist, who navigates her life while grappling with severe mental health issues.
With its uncensored portrayal of mental health challenges, it is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of what it's like to live with severe mental health issues. I would also recommend it to anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story that will make you laugh and cry in equal measure.
2. "Go As The River" by Shelley Read
Go As The River brings to life one woman's journey whose life is altered by a single decision she makes. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Colorado nature, this story combines a powerful narrative of longing, loss and inner strength with vivid characters you start to feel like you know. It also brings in the socio-political topics including racism, war and a town covered by water.
It's a beautifully written novel and as you read it you can't help but be transported to another time and the stunning natural landscapes described. Would recommend - especially if you want a bit of escapism!
1. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
As soon as I picked up this book I couldn't put it down... it just draws you in! This debut novel by Bonnie Garmus follows the life story of Elizabeth Zott set in the 1960s. Zott is determined to be a scientist in a patriarchal world that will not accept her.
The story brings to life the sexism of the previous decades, and how, against all odds, Zott is determined to do what she loves. It's feminism at its best.
Elizabeth Zott is a formidable character you can't help but admire, and I particularly enjoyed the depiction of "Six-Thirty", her dog. Although the book tackles a serious (and at times shocking) subject, there are some real 'laugh out loud' moments.
Since I reviewed Lessons in Chemistry it’s been turned into a TV series on Apple+ that I’ve just started watching (review to follow early next year!)
This is my novel of the year!
If you read any of the books in this list I would love to know what you thought of them – drop me a line at Hannah@workerbeeyoga.co.uk and share your experiences.
Top 5 Non-Fiction Books of 2023
Now I’m sharing my non-fiction recommendations. These are a combination of general “self-help” / personal development and yoga-related books to help you deepen your yoga practice.
5. Chakra Insight by Caryn Sangster
If you're interested in exploring your chakra system, then I really recommend this book as a very accessible way to learn about them.
Accompanied by a set of chakra cards, this book breaks down the 7 chakras, bringing them to life with different themes. You can play with the cards to dive into each of your 7 energy centres and what they mean.
One of my favourite parts of the book is the section at the end that clearly defines each chakra, what they are associated with and things you can do to balance them in a very straightforward / bitesize way!
4. Breath by James Nestor
This is my "go-to" book on breathing! James Nestor breaks down the science of breathing and its impact on your body with practical exercises to explore.
He also explains how modern lifestyles have negatively impacted how we breathe. There's tons of interesting info in it that is accessible to the non-science minded amongst us. One of the things that surprised me was how a shift towards soft baby food has fundamentally changed the shape of your skull, and is one of the reasons why there are so many sinus issues nowadays.
If you are struggling with poor sleep or high levels of stress then I would absolutely recommend giving it a read!
3. Yoga Through The Year (Jilly Shipway)
If you are interested in developing your own yoga practice at home then you might be interested in this short book. It's a toolkit of different yoga practices based on the seasons, provided inspiration and practical techniques.
You'll learn how to adapt your yoga practice to different times of year and try out some new elements of your practice too!
2. Do Less by Kate Northup
Kate Northup is a busy working mum who reached the point of burnout, and has managed to create a successful life doing less, not more! Sounds great right?!
I decided to read this non-fiction book inspired by my 2023 New Year's Resolution of "work smarter not harder".
"Do Less" uses plenty of research to convince you why doing less leads to better health and increased productivity. The best part of the book is a series of experiments that you can apply to manage your time and energy differently.
I found it an interesting read and am trying some of the experiments myself... one of the things Northup suggests is taking inspiration from nature's cycles to allow yourself time for rest and recovery. This could be your menstruation cycle, or the moon's monthly cycle - which so far is working for me!
1. "Living Your Yoga" by Judith Hanson Lasater
This is a classic yoga book that has inspired some of my "off the mat" practices. If you are interested in understanding a bit more about yoga philosophy and applying it to modern day life then I would thoroughly recommend this book to you.
Lasater explores some of the key principles of ancient yogic philosophy and makes them resonate for a contemporary audience. I like that this book takes ancient wisdom and helps you apply it to your life in a very practical way.
It's one of those books that I read all in one go but I come back to again and again... it's good to take a chapter and allow it to really digest.
This is my top non-fiction recommendation from my 2023 reviews! If you read it I'd love to know what you think!
