2023 in Books: Top 5 Reads That Captivated My Heart and Mind
As someone who cherishes the world of books, I founded this business as a commercial venture and an extension of my love for reading. Unlike television's fleeting and noisy nature, books offer a relaxing, timeless escape, a chance to delve into and learn about diverse worlds and experiences.
Typically, my routine includes reading one fiction and listening to one non-fiction book each month. I love reading fiction because it’s such an emotional experience, and I like listening to non-fiction because I usually try to learn a concept.
My days often start and end with a fiction book in hand, dedicating 15 to 30 minutes to this cherished hobby – my ideal way to unwind. I love reading fiction because, as Albert Camus once said, and Abraham Verghese reminded me, “Fiction is the lie through which we tell the truth.” Whenever a smart person (usually a man) tells me they don’t read fiction, I cringe and feel sad for all the life they’re missing out on. I’ve learned so much about life and human nature from fiction.
With that spirit, and as 2023 ends, I wanted to share a roundup of my favorite books in 2023, offering a glimpse into my world as a reader. Let me take you through some of my top picks:
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
I admit I approached Cutting for Stone with a lot of skepticism. Hailing from a family of South Indian physicians, this book was often mentioned A LOT because it was written by a well-known doctor and best-selling South Indian author, Dr. Abraham Verghese. But, tbh, I’m skeptical of popular recommendations — I’ve been burned many times! And Cutting for Stone was mentioned so many times I think I believed this book couldn’t possibly live up to the hype. I’m happy to report that I was totally wrong.
Even as I began reading, I remained doubtful, taking a few chapters to fully immerse myself. However, it wasn't long before I found myself eagerly anticipating my daily return to the world of Missing Hospital in Ethiopia.
Cutting for Stone is my top pick for the year because of its compelling story of two brothers and its exquisite writing. Consider this line that resonated with me: “There I was, the son who went to the States for higher studies, who became a practitioner of the artful, lavish, disposable-everything, lucrative and incredibly effective American brand of medicine, with no prices on the menu, so different in style and substance from what they did at Missing.” I loved this line that contrasted the differences between tech-forward medicine practiced in the United States and medicine practiced elsewhere – medicine on the cheap. I’ve seen this medicine practiced in India, so it was poignant to read this line. The themes of redemption, understanding, forgiveness, and family dynamics are also woven beautifully throughout the narrative.
I’m not going to lie, I was angry when the book ended! I was sad that my journey with these characters had ended, yet moved by the story they told. I missed my nightly excursions to Missing Hospital. Cutting for Stone is, without a doubt, a must-read.
Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Covenant of Water is actually the first Abraham Verghese novel I picked up. Since I’m from Kerala, India, where this book is set, reading it felt like a nostalgic journey home. The writing is nothing short of brilliant, with profound insights woven throughout the narrative, like this gem: “One shouldn’t just hope to be treated well; one must insist on it.”
While I found the plot somewhat excessive and the ending was a tad far-fetched, the wisdom imparted throughout the book regarding life and illness was enlightening. Here’s one of my favorite lines about how random illness is and how blessed those of us in good health are: “Only luck and the grace of God keep us free of such affliction. We’re so blessed, aren’t we?”
I also had the pleasure of delving into Oprah's video podcast series (yes, that’s a thing now!) with Dr.Verghese, which gave me further insight into his vision for the book. I loved that readers asked him about connections and themes in this book that he seemed not to have heard of!
Covenant of Water is a testament to Verghese's dedication as an author. Even after three best-selling books and a team of talented editors, this work took over a decade for Verghese to complete. For any author, this serves as a reminder: writing is a long labor of love and patience.
Like Oprah, I loved this book so much that I delved back into Verghese’s other books, starting with Cutting for Stone, which I actually liked better. Cutting for Stone is pithier, more moving, more realistic, and equally well-written.
I’ll definitely be listening to both books on Audible – unusual since I never listen to fiction, but I want to hear the books read by Verghese himself. Not to mention that I want an excuse to relive both books!
Covenant of Water is a must read!
Yellowface
Yellowface offers an intriguing perspective on the often opaque and mysterious publishing industry. The writing is witty and poignant, mocking the publishing industry's absurdities while providing a candid look at its inner workings. I often wonder if people chase different things to soothe their egos - bankers chase money, doctors chase respect for their work ethic, and writers chase acknowledgment of their brilliant intellectual talent. Yellowface mocks our desire for fame and brilliance.
One line that stood out was, “But Geoff is a wealthy, attractive, cishet white guy. Geoff has endless room for failure. The world will afford me no such lenience.” It's a revealing look into the different standards and challenges within the publishing world and beyond.
Love, Loss, and What We Ate by Padma Lakshmi
Padma Lakshmi, like me, is a South Indian who has ventured off the beaten path. Her well-written and captivating biography, Love, Loss, and What We Ate, offers an interesting look at the life of a model and actress. Hearing her speak about her insecurities and struggles, such as moving back in with her mom after college and not knowing what she wanted to do, was humbling and inspiring. I loved the parts of the book where she described her relationship with her grandparents and growing up in the South Indian city of Madras, which I could relate to. The audiobook, narrated by Padma herself, adds depth and authenticity, allowing the listener to connect deeply with her experiences.
Spare
And now, for my guilty pleasure – I'm an avid royal fan. Everyone has a bad reality TV show that they can’t get enough of, and this is mine! The characters keep changing and doing ridiculous things.
Spare was a delightful, indulgent read that provided a window into the often surreal world of the British royal family. Listening to the audiobook, narrated by Price Harry himself, added an extra layer of enjoyment – he has a great voice and accent! I liked learning all the little details Harry was willing to dish out, like the fact that he was in his early 30s when he entered some of his grandmother’s (the late queen’s) private quarters or how he never had a close relationship with his brother. This was definitely an engaging listen. I also really enjoyed the commentary on the book provided by my favorite Royal journalist, Elizabeth Holmes (no, not the Theranos founder)! Check out So Many Thoughts on Substack and Instagram if you’re into royal life.
What are your 2023 best reads?!
So, what about you?! Have you discovered any books this year that captivated you? What are your current favorites? Let's continue celebrating our love for books and the stories that shape our lives.
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