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 Women in Science Now: Stories and Strategies for Achieving Equity

Natalia I. Kucirkova I this book because...

As an academic familiar with marginalized identities and intersectionality in science role models, I was eager to review this book when approached by Columbia Press.

The book offers diverse portraits of women scientists, highlighting the gender gap in promotions and their shared determination to pursue science despite hardship, personal struggles, and discrimination. The scientific field is known for its intense competition, where only the most dedicated thrive.

What I appreciated was that the book thoughtfully presented portraits of women scientists without imposing conclusions. These profiles emphasized their diverse backgrounds—many non-academic—yet all shared a common passion and curiosity that propelled them out of their comfort zones to embrace science.

By Lisa M. P. Munoz,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Women in Science Now as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Women working in the sciences face obstacles at virtually every step along their career paths. From subtle slights to blatant biases, deep systemic problems block women from advancing or push them out of science and technology entirely.

Women in Science Now examines solutions to this persistent gender gap, offering new perspectives on how to make science more equitable and inclusive for all. This book shares stories and insights of women from a range of backgrounds working in various disciplines, illustrating the journeys that brought them to the sciences, the challenges they faced along the way, and the important contributions they…


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

My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Prep, Push, Pivot: Essential Career Strategies for Underrepresented Women

Natalia I. Kucirkova I this book because...

This book positions itself as an authoritative and guide and is filled with practical tools, strategies, and advice, delivered in a coaching and mentorship style.

Designed for training and mentoring sessions, it offers a refreshing perspective on female leadership. The author provides empowering tips to boost women's self-esteem and unleash their creativity. The writing is energising. Central to its guidance is the assertion: "If you don't promote yourself, no one else will"  a potentially tough but genuine truth. 

By Octavia Goredema,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Advance your career with this insightful playbook for underrepresented women

In Prep, Push, Pivot, award-winning career coach and author Octavia Goredema delivers an indispensable career coaching guide for women looking for a new job, dealing with job loss, pivoting to a new career, or returning to the workforce after an extended absence.

You'll discover practical strategies you can implement at crucial times during your career, ensuring your considerable talents and skills are used to their full potential. In this important book, you'll:

Discover your true worth, cement your career values, and carve out a realistic and aspirational career plan Learn…


Want my future book recommendations?

My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of If That's Leading, I'm In: Women Redefining Leadership

Natalia I. Kucirkova I this book because...

I eagerly anticipated the advanced copy of this book and was deeply moved by its wisdom. Julia's insights, drawn from conversations with thousands of women over years, including the Women Emerging podcast, offer a treasure trove of knowledge.

The book challenges the modern trend of paid coaching and self-promotion on social media as indicators of successful leaders. Instead, it delves into a profound reflection on the true essence of leadership. The book's ingenious map is a unique way of illustrating the journey inward of inspirational women.

With the infinity symbol at its core, 'Essence' forms the central circle, flanked by 'Elements' and 'Expression', with 'Energy' flowing through it. The map locates readers’ distinct leadership style and acknowledging the innate leadership women demonstrate within their families and communities.

By Julia Middleton,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked If That's Leading, I'm In as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"We all know what leadership is. What we don't know is why so many women are turned off by the whole idea of doing it.

Because leadership has generally been defined by men (and is mainly done by men), we also know that most of the women who do lead think that, in order to succeed, they have to do it like men.

But what if they don't?

What if the problem isn't with women - it's with leadership? And, in a world that needs all the good leaders it can get right now, what will it take for more…


Don‘t forget about my book 😀

Inspirational Women in Academia: Supporting Careers and Improving Minority Representation

By Natalia I. Kucirkova, Loleta Fahad,

Book cover of Inspirational Women in Academia: Supporting Careers and Improving Minority Representation

What is my book about?

The book provides an in-depth exploration that blends personal reflections from the authors – two minority women in academia  with interviews of inspirational female academics. This is complemented by a comprehensive review of scientific literature on leadership, social justice, and inclusion in workplace. The authors delve into leadership challenges in academia, offering practical strategies to foster equality and equity in academic environments. For example, minority women who attain success frequently face the added challenge of being expected to uplift others. This often leads to an increased risk of burnout due to the added responsibilities. How can we create gate-opening opportunities and ensure that doors remain open for all? How can one own individual success when it's built on collective efforts?