Reflecting on my limp literary odyssey throughout 2023 reveals a year that did not match the abundance of outstanding reads from 2022. I immersed myself in the pages of 26 books. Limp may be a bit strong as there were some quite excellent monumental works, but overall the quality just wasn’t up to par. The year started on a low note, without a significant monument to mention and then I hit a literary drought from February to March, when no books were completed.
My favorite book of the year, however, was unequivocally Rousseau and Revolution by Will Durant and Ariel Durant. This monumental work provided me with enlightening perspectives that I had not previously considered, enriching my understanding of both history and philosophy. It was a profound and intellectually stimulating read that stood out above the rest.
While the opening of the year was empty, the dry spell ended with a smash, when I discovered Cast Under an Alien Sun by Olan Thorensen, my favorite fiction book of the year. As the year progressed, I continued exploring Thorensen’s universe, with The Pen and the Sword in October. Each installment offered both immersion and intellectual stimulation, enhancing my appreciation for well-crafted storytelling and prompting deeper reflections on societal evolution and the human experience.
Honorable mentions
Best Prose
Little did I know that my literary experiences would only grow richer. Immediately after finishing Cast Under an Alien Sun, I ventured into the works of Stephen King for the first time with 11/22/63. King’s masterful storytelling and profound character development were a revelation. I’m glad I finally took the time to immerse myself in his remarkable writing, which left a lasting impression on me.
History
Mid-year, I immersed myself into Crucible of War by Fred Anderson, which became my second-favorite history book of the year. This meticulous account of the Seven Years’ War offered profound insights into the complexities of historical conflicts and their far-reaching consequences, deepening my appreciation for the intricacies of history.
Delightful Surprise
To conclude the year on a lighter note, I enjoyed Starter Villain by John Scalzi. Although it wasn’t the best book of the year, it held a special place in my heart with its whimsical tale of a kitty crime syndicate. This delightful story provided the perfect finishing touch to my 2023 reading journey, wrapping up the year with charm and humor.
In retrospect, 2023 may not have matched the sheer volume of outstanding reads from the previous year, but the highlights were certainly memorable and impactful. Here’s to hoping that 2024 brings even more literary treasures and enriching experiences!