The best books of 2023

This list is part of the best books of 2023.

Join 1,707 readers and share your 3 favorite reads of the year.

My favorite read in 2023

Book cover of Wild Ride: Women’s Stories and Life Lessons

Jacqueline Jeynes Why did I love this book?

This book is an inspired compilation of short 1-2-page reflections on memories of love, life, and "interesting" events from 55 women around the world, and what a great cover design! 

It was definitely a fascinating mix of stories to demonstrate that however diverse their circumstances might be, all the women managed to capture the courage and determination they needed to overcome adversity and survive.

Underpinned with humor, an impressive will to take risks, and a sometimes quirky look at life, you can certainly find inspiration from these women and their tales.

From stories about lost relatives and life lessons from unexpected acquaintances to buying a house using 3 credit cards (yes, really!), this was a great way for Kathy to say we should all enjoy a "wild ride" at some time in our life. 

By Kathy Klaus,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Wild Ride as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Wild Ride began as a project for the Humour Academy, a three year course. The ideas for this book was to collect stories from women about any event or stage of their life. Without filters for age, topic or writing the expedrience, it captures the authentic voice of each woman. In addition, each "author" provides a piece of advice they would give to their younger self. The book is divided into four sections: The Value of a Story, Emotions and Memory, Gratitude and Love Remembered...the latter being an opportunity for family to share a story about their loved one. All…


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My 2nd favorite read in 2023

Book cover of Running Around Naked

Jacqueline Jeynes Why did I love this book?

I was fortunate to see Jelaine’s early drafts of her memoir, and I instantly recognized that she should tell her story to the world. How could you not be intrigued just by the title?

This is a unique view of being part of a naturist family, starting when she was a little girl in 1970s America. A brilliant description of the family’s first tentative steps captures how you imagine it might be. I loved the discussions between her mum and dad about whether they should or shouldn’t take the plunge into this new life!

It is a warm, funny view about a way of life, including the pitfalls and highlights, and Jelaine is truly an inspiration to anyone planning to write their memoirs.

My 3rd favorite read in 2023

Book cover of Badly Chopped Carrots and Everyday Dinners: Life as a Canadian in Rural Wales

Jacqueline Jeynes Why did I love this book?

The perfect title reflects how imperfect life can be, so just accept it!

Is it a memoir or a cookery book? The recipes are there to add to the background story, as we know how popular cookery books are when we empathize with the person behind them. In this case, Anita’s view that food is the basis of making and keeping friends shines through.

Anita’s story is of a professional, mature Canadian relocating to rural Wales, with anecdotes about people and how they interact when spread widely across a rural area. Anyone from this county (including me) will instantly recognize characters and places!

It is a large, sturdy coffee-table book to dip into with lots of full-color photographs and seasonal recipes for entertaining friends, a nice, easy read.

Don‘t forget about my book 😀

Risk Management: 10 Principles

By Jacqueline Jeynes,

Book cover of Risk Management: 10 Principles

What is my book about?

There are many problems associated with managing the overwhelming list of risks to your smaller business. Often these relate to the assumption that you/your staff are trained in spotting health and safety hazards, fire risks, your impact on the local and national environment, competitive and financial risks, and oh yes, new regulations that affect your industry. The list is endless and while they are all vital to your survival, none of them become a priority unless something bad happens.

This 2nd Edition, an updated version of the 2002 original, looks at all aspects of the business, potential risks and how they can be managed. By taking a whole-picture approach to all parts of the firm, you can see what actually happens on a day-to-day basis. 

Book cover of Wild Ride: Women’s Stories and Life Lessons
Book cover of Running Around Naked
Book cover of Badly Chopped Carrots and Everyday Dinners: Life as a Canadian in Rural Wales

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