The best books of 2023

This list is part of the best books of 2023.

We've asked 1,707 authors and super readers for their 3 favorite reads of the year.

My favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Kids Write Jokes

Mike Russell I this book because...

This is the funniest book I have ever read. My partner and I take turns to read the jokes out. It usually takes us a few goes as we laugh so hard.

The jokes are written by children and they are excellent, by which I mean very, very silly. The book isn’t big or clever. But once upon a time neither were you. Once upon a time you were small and foolish, as well as full of joy. Read this book to discover that really you are still small and foolish and rekindle that joy.   

By Katie Gould (editor), Kidswritejokes,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Kids Write Jokes as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The Magic Mirror of M. C. Escher

Mike Russell I this book because...

Escher is an incredible artist. This is an informative book about his life and work, with plenty of examples of his astonishing art.

Escher reveals the gaps in our systems of representation and invites us to jump into them. Like my own stories, his artworks are poetic constructions that point towards that which cannot be represented: the infinite beyond.

Enjoy having your mind blown? Escher’s your man.

By Bruno Ernst,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Magic Mirror of M. C. Escher as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Dutch


Want my future book recommendations?

My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Sadhguru: More Than A Life

Mike Russell I this book because...

This is a book for anyone wanting to know more about Sadhguru, a contemporary mystic.

Anyone who has read any of my books will know I am someone who is searching for more to life than the material and mental prisons our society offers. Sadhguru is someone who has no prisons and has dedicated his life to destroying everyone else’s. No beliefs, no philosophy, no religion, just exploration of life…

This book is essentially a biography; for a more practical book check out Inner Engineering: A Yogi's Guide to Joy by Sadhguru. You will be amazed.

By Arundhathi Subramaniam,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Sadhguru: More than a Life is an extraordinary story of Sadhguru, a young agnostic who turned yogi and a spiritual guru for millions of people all around the world. The author attempts to re-create the life of an exceptional man as he combines rationality with mysticism and ancient wisdom with contemporary and modern outlook.



In Sadhguru: More Than a Life, the author writes about the early life of Sadhguru and his journey from being a boisterous prankster to becoming the spiritual guide for millions around the world. The author draws from her extended conversations with Sadhguru and interviews with fellow…


Don‘t forget about my book 😀

Strange Concentrate

By Mike Russell,

Book cover of Strange Concentrate

What is my book about?

Strange Concentrate is a collection of very short stories. Each story is short enough to be read on an elevator ride to the top of a very low building, yet powerful enough to stay with you long after the building has fallen down.

Highly imaginative, highly entertaining, highly strange. Just add water.