My 2023 Reading Wrap Up
2023 has been another busy year, filled with more flights from LAX to DC than I care to count. Amidst those bumpy flights and late nights, I sought refuge in books, a lifelong practice that helped me survive rough and tumble siblings and being a single mom.
In no particular order, here are ten of my favorite books I read this past year. Several are debut novels, so follow these authors for future books too. I hope this list provides a book to read or to gift this holiday season.
Maame by Jessica George
This debut novel by Jessica George speaks to friendship, familial duty, immigrants’ experiences, and the role of race and racism.
The Celebrants by Steven Rowley
True Biz by Sara Novic
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
Partially set in Orange County, California, two estranged siblings discover their mother’s past as a child in the Caribbean in this terrific debut novel (and yes, you get the recipe for Black Cake).
Exes and O’s by Amy Lea
A fun read, this story follows a romance-novel connoisseur on her quest for love. I mean, who wouldn’t want a hot firefighter as a roommate (hypothetically speaking).
This Bird Has Flown by Susanna Hoffs
One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London
Bodyguard by Katherine Center
Fun fact, Katherine Center, the author, is the sister of my colleague from Texas, Rep. Lizzie Fletcher. Like many of Center’s books, the female protagonist has a job in a traditionally male field.
The Subtle Art of Not giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Bonus recommendation: I Swear: Politics is Messier than my Minivan. This year, I also became an author (save for the law books that I have written). Writing this book was a two year long, but rewarding, experience, and it was a highlight of the year to become a New York Times bestselling author.
Next up on my list of things to read are The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese and Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond.
This year, I’ve also gotten more into book merchandise and events, attending the LA Festival of Books (WOW, how had I never been?!) and collecting stickers from favorite authors to adorn my iPad cover (which makes it harder to lose it during travel).
Happy reading (and remember to shop at your local bookstore!). Or, if you prefer public libraries, to support their work by volunteering your time or making a donation.
Katie Porter
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