My 2021 Reading List
The biggest gift of an unplanned career change in mid 2021 was being able to get back into daily reading!!
And I read (and re-read) some amazing books!!
My hope in publishing this list is that you’ll find at least a few that sound like they would be helpful to you and that you’ll commit to your own growth and development in 2022 by challenging yourself to read more (it is possible – watch less tv, use your airplane time to read, make a Saturday morning reading date with yourself, join a book club).
If this list doesn’t have any books that appeal to you, all my reading lists from 2014-2020 are posted here. Or maybe one of the 7 books that literally transformed my life is exactly what you need for 2022.
My 2022 reading is already underway – the first one was a doozy! You can follow my reading real-time on any of my social media (links at the bottom of the email) using #emoryreadinglist.
#1: Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Payson Prentiss
It wasn’t until I was ¾ of the way through the book that I realized I was reading a novel rather than a real memoir. Ooops! But the takeaway there is that it is excellent writing that made me believe it was real. The story itself was lovely, but the advancement of thought and progression of growth in the protagonist’s character were incredible – I learned so much by watching her grow and develop as the years went on. Thanks to Joanna Teigen of Growing Home Together for planting the seed to read a book filled with wisdom, written by a woman in the 1800s.
#2: 12 Rules of Life by Jordan B. Peterson
Author and Podcaster, Neil Pasricha says, “We want to hear what we don’t want to hear.” Meaning, that we actually want to be shown (or even told) the way, even when it’s uncomfortable or painful.
Dr. Peterson’s wisdom lands in the camp of truths that we both want and don’t want to hear. His thoughtfulness to share transparently about his own life and struggles helped soften the discomfort of the truths he told.
#3: The Bomber Mafia by Malcolm Gladwell
Wow!! I actually listened to this one because Malcolm himself said it was intended to be listened to rather than read – hearing the eyewitness accounts and commentaries of the people who lived through this period in history was incredible! Definitely a good one for your next road trip.
#4: Master of One by Jordan Raynor
It’s easy to play it safe and keep our options open by being a jack/jill of all trades. Jordan’s admonition is to find that one thing, your niche, and go deep with it.
It may take some time to figure it out, but once you do, put the blinders on and give it all you’ve got.
#5: Dusk Night Dawn by Anne Lamott
Lamott’s writing is always humbling – reminding me of how much better life is when we remove the mask and be honest with ourselves and others. Though we run risks by doing so, the gains through authenticity and vulnerability far outweigh the risks.
#6: Dare to Bloom by Zim Flores
Wonderful reminders of how all the seasons of our lives weave together to create a beautiful tapestry that we are called to offer as gifts in service to others. I love Zim’s perspective, which Jordan Lee Dooley shares with her, that there are seasonal purposes to our lives, meaning that we likely have different callings at different points in our lives, and that they all culminate together in a bigger purpose.
#7: I Can Be an Instrument of Peace by MaryJo Burchard, Ph.D.
I am consistently inspired by the wisdom and love that Dr. Burchard shares in her social media posts, and this precious book is no different. My nieces and nephews all received this as a Christmas gift, as we need to be passing on these virtues to the next generation in abundance.
#8: The Making of Biblical Womanhood by Beth Allison Barr, Ph.D.
Very thorough and well-researched presentation of how people have created perspectives of how women are viewed, and subsequently treated, that are very different from God’s design and intent.
Dr. Barr presents evidence that, once again, we are simply incapable of interpreting holy scripture (aka The Bible) without reading our own opinions and biases into it.
A very helpful and interesting read on gender equality.
#9: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.
Warren Kinghorn, Professor of Psychiatry at Duke University says that 20% of the American population has severe psychological wounds from severe trauma.
With my husband being in that 20%, Dr. Van Der Kolk’s definitions, examples, and stories were illuminating and helpful in ways that not much else has been. This is a definite must-read for anyone who has either experienced significant trauma, has a loved one who has, or works with someone who has.
#10: She is the Ish - Extraordinary Woman by Erial Ramsey
Stasi Eldredge says, “God is in the business of setting us free, making each of us into the woman He always wanted us to be.”
This compilation is full of beautiful stories of women being set free and experiencing radical transformation. There is much I learned from their vulnerability, courage, perseverance, and joy.
#11: Novations by Gene W. Dalton & Paul H. Thompson
An interesting book from 30 years ago with career development principles that are still true today.
Based on my 9 years of leadership coaching, as well as my experience leading HR & culture for an 18,000-person company, there are two principles I’ve seen that their research confirmed:
1) there is nothing more beneficial to your career than having a mentor--someone who is invested in your growth and development,
2) self-awareness and clarity about how you define success for your own career will keep you from making missteps or wasting your time in roles or organizations that won’t get you where you really want to go.
#12: Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri
A beautiful, funny, gut-wrenching, and thought-provoking memoir about life as a refugee. I really appreciated learning more about the Iranian culture and customs, especially as remembered through the eyes of a child.
I genuinely wish it had been longer – there is so much more to Daniel’s story that I want to know.
#13: Trade Up! by Rayona Sharpnack
We’re all believing narratives about ourselves and our lives - some of which are good and helpful, but much of which are negative, unhelpful, and even toxic.
Dr. Carol Dweck taught us about fixed mindsets and Rayona shows us one method for exchanging, or “trading up”, those mindsets and narratives for healthy ones.
Filled with incredible examples of people who have followed her method with success, this book will be a meaningful guide for those struggling with overcoming toxic narratives.
#14: Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen
I love Jennie’s belief that beauty can literally change our perspective and breakthrough the negative and toxic thinking in our lives, “Beauty interrupts us, it awakens us, it undoes us, it cuts us open, and restarts our hearts.”
With anxiety, fear, doubt, discouragement, insecurity, shame, and guilt suffocating us, we need hope that something can help us overcome in a lasting way.
A helpful first read for anyone trying to get their thoughts under control.
#15: Uncommon Ground by Tim Keller & John Inazu
We’re fearful of one another because we’re not spending time getting to know each other and communing with one another.
We’re propagating half-truths because we’re not actually taking the time to listen to one another.
12 people from diverse walks of life with varying perspectives come together through this book to help us respect each other enough to be curious and learn from one another.
The divisive spirit of today would be diminished if the words of these men and women were taken to heart.
#16: Prayers of the People by Redeemer Presbyterian Church
A beautiful book of prayers from everyday people, expressing their thanksgivings, praises, and lamentations in their individual ways. Being able to learn from the prayers of others is a gift that expands my personal liturgy. Something I am truly grateful for this week!
#17: Presence by Amy Cuddy
Finally, a scientific argument showing the negative relational impact of using Botox. 😉
Amy’s research shows that people who use Botox are unable to fully express their own emotions, thus depriving themselves of emotive responses from others. Additionally, they’re less capable of showing that they’re empathizing with others in their emotions.
Thus, Botox negatively impacts relational health.
PS: Her sections on body language (aka nonverbal behavior, which is her specialty) provide some pretty helpful insights.
#18: Multipliers by Liz Wiseman and Greg McKeown
I’ve had the privilege of coaching hundreds of business executives, observing dozens of them with their teams. It is immediately evident which ones take themselves too seriously and believe they are the smartest person in the room vs those who believe their purpose as a leader is to mentor, build up, advocate for, and champion those around them, with the goal of working themselves out of a job.
In this Great Resignation, leaders who follow Liz’s multiplier disciplines and invest in their people by challenging them to stretch to their best thinking and potential, involve them in rigorous debate and decision-making, give them ownership, and set them up to win, are the leaders who people want to work for and with.
If you lead/manage anyone and you’ve never read this book, do so immediately – your future as a leader depends on it.
#19: The Money Tree by Chris Guillebeau
We overcomplicate earning money – plain and simple.
Chris, Ryan Holiday, and Justin Welsh, have all said that every single one of us can make $1000 within in a week, based on the knowledge we currently possess.
Clients of mine have worked their way out of $90,000 of debt in less than 3 years by following steps very similar to what Chris outlines.
My two personal takeaways from Chris’s book:
Investing in yourself is playing the long game, especially in terms of what you will learn
Don’t let pride get in the way of testing new things and pivoting as needed/directed
PS: I read Chris’s 100 Side Hustles a couple of years ago – chock full of great ideas for how to make that first $1000. You can see my 2019 reading list here.
#20: Give and Take by Adam Grant
Adam defines generosity as sharing credit, our time, energy, knowledge, skills, ideas, and connections, as well as providing mentoring and giving help.
Applying Adam’s philosophy, every single one of us can be more generous in one way or another.
#21: The Passion Economy by Adam Davidson
The concept of Ikigai perfectly shows Adam’s insights in visuals, with this generation, this “passion economy”, being focused on the combination of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
What an exciting time in history to be an entrepreneur!
#22: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
For those of us who are inclined to work for others and live the corporate life, one of the incredible opportunities we have in this “passion economy”, as Adam Davidson refers to this era, is to choose the type of organization we want to work for. Through the Great Resignation we’re seeing this now more than ever, and I love how Simon clarifies that part of what we get to decide is whether or not we want to work for a company that is living by set rules and is focused on quarterly gains or a company that has pitched the rule book, and like Victorinox, is thinking “in generations” or the “infinite” as Simon puts it.
If this infinite, thinking in generations philosophy resonates with you, Simon’s book is a great “how to” guide for getting there.
#23: When by Daniel H. Pink
A curious read!
Daniel’s research points out some interesting facts like:
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day
We should be taking daily power naps of 10-25 minutes between 2-3pm
Micro-breaks throughout the day help us retain and regain our focus
Our moods are better in the morning and mid-evening
If you want to know the right time to exercise, to drink a cup of coffee, to have a productive meeting, or to quit your job, Daniel’s research will show you.
#24: Focus by Daniel Goleman
Want to be more successful?
Daniel’s research shows that greater focus will get you there.
I have seen two of his findings make a huge difference for my clients:
Have selective attention – keep your energy and attention narrow – go deep not wide
Give your mind a break – take a vacation
Greater cognitive control enables greater focus, which creates excellence.
#25: Marketing Made Simple by Donald Miller
Want or need help as far as your strategy for your website, email campaigns, lead generator, elevator pitch?
This book is your one-stop shop to help you iron out your messaging and have a clear marketing plan that is authentic and true to you.
#26: A Burning in My Bones by Winn Collier
In this life of community and relationships, there is little that I value more than learning about Love through the lives and experiences of others.
Winn’s biography of Eugene Peterson is a thoughtful tribute to a man whose perspectives on Love opened my eyes and expanded my heart.
#27: Hidden Christmas by Timothy Keller
A couple of years ago I was burnt out and disappointed by Christmas. It had turned into a season of sadness rather than the joy-filled time that it was intended to be.
My friend and former colleague, Dan Foster, gave me this book and it truly brought meaning back to Christmas for me. I’ve re-read it each year since and each time I rediscover joy and learn something new about this season of hope.
#28: Adorning the Dark by Andrew Peterson
My greatest joy of working life in corporate America was community – being able to share life and work with people who I enjoyed being with. I’m more of an introvert than an extrovert, so I value my time to myself as well, but having spent the last six months without the constant connection and community, that corporate life offered, has been difficult and lonely.
Andrew put words to this sense of belonging that I am missing and longing for. He shares openly about his experiences and how he has created community to ease his emptiness.
#29: The Songs of Jesus by Timothy & Kathy Keller
I absolutely loved this book and am tempted to start it all over again. It’s a daily read, that breaks down the entire book of Psalms so that you read a passage each day, plus some thoughts on that day’s scriptures from Tim and Kathy, and a prayer to focus your heart and mind. It was a wonderful way to start each day. They also wrote one that goes through the book of Proverbs in a year, I started that one on January 1.
#30: Becoming Myself by Stasi Eldredge
Stasi is one of the best role models I’ve ever known as far as one woman advocating for and cheering on other women. While there are a lot of beautiful insights in this book, my biggest learnings were about how to celebrate other women more than I celebrate myself.
#31: Present over Perfect by Shauna Niequist
This is one that I re-read every year. Each time I discover something new that meets me where I’m at in that season. Her words always hit hard and remind me to stop doing and start being.
#32: Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts God by Sheila Walsh
Letting go of control is probably the most often recurring them in my life. I’m still wrestling through this topic, but I strongly believe that the biggest lie that the Gen X women have bought into is that it’s up to us to make things happen and that we can make all our own dreams come true if we will just work hard enough. Sheila gently and lovingly shows us what the opposite of that belief looks like, and its appeal is strong!
#33: Inside Out by Larry Crabb
There is no arguing that this life is full of pain, disappointment, sadness, evil, and suffering. For all of us it’s hard to face the things of this life, so we do all that we can to numb ourselves. Larry pushes us to see that the dulling of our senses is actually doing more harm than good, and why it’s important for us to sit with the pain and work through it rather than to busying ourselves and trying to avoid it.
#34: This is Your Brain on Joy by Dr. Earl Henslin
I have been on an ongoing quest to understand what life is like for those struggling with mental disorders, and this book came highly recommended from a friend who struggles with severe anxiety. The insights given about what brain impairments do to a person’s mental acuity and health were incredibly helpful and eye opening. Henslin provides practical ideas of how to improve day-to-day life for someone living with a mental disorder.
#35: The Broken Way by Ann Voskamp
The profoundness of Ann’s book is found in a challenge to change our perspective about our “thorn in the flesh.” She shows us the benefits of embracing it, rather than looking at it as a curse, “we can be brokers of healing exactly where we have known the most brokenness.” This book needs to be read slowly, and in small bites, because her words hit deep. It is intense and beautiful.
#36: Captivating by Stasi Eldredge
I hadn’t read this in nearly 10 years, and it was so good to read it again. The opportunity to be reminded of our woundedness as women and why we hide and why we work so hard to try and make everything perfect.
#37: No More Dragons by Jim Burgen
A truly helpful book for anyone who recognizes that their life has drifted to somewhere they never intended. By sharing his own story, Jim helps you to realize that all is not lost, that it’s never too late, and you’re never too old to get things back on track and moving in a better direction.
#38: And Still She Laughs by Kate Merrick
One of the most honest books I’ve ever read on grief is by Sonali Deraniyagala who lost her husband, two sons, and mother and father, while vacationing on the coast of Sri Lanka when the 2004 tsunami hit. Kate shares her own story of suffering, with the 3-year journey through childhood cancer and subsequent loss of her daughter. What I love about Kate’s book is that she didn’t shy away from showing her moments of despair, just as Sonali did, but Kate brought it back to finding hope, meaning, and joy through her suffering. Kate’s book is a must-read for anyone who has ever experienced grief and loss.
#39: Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
I am a firm believer that we are our own worst enemy, and that we often do not reach out potential because we are holding ourselves back in some way for some reason. Holiday believes that outcomes such as these are the result of our ego getting the better of us. His encourages us to be “humble in our aspirations”, “gracious in our success”, and “resilient in our failures”.
#40: The Allure of Hope by Jan Meyers Proett
“It takes courage to live the story we are given.” Nine years ago, I would have characterized myself as a control freak, forcing situations and conversations with the goal of diminishing my personal discomfort. Jan called me out on my foolishness and helped me to experience an unmatched freedom. I have gone back to her words of wisdom countless times. Each time my courage and resolve are renewed.
#41: What Women Fear by Angie Smith
Sooooo good! So hard, but so good! Fear of failure, yep, Angie covers it. Fear of rejection, yep, she covers that too. Fear of death, yep, that’s in here also. Be gracious to yourself about your fears, but face them, don’t run from them. Angie will help you do that.
#42: It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst
Life definitely presents us with disappointments. Lysa shares openly about her health and marital disappointments, along with her strategies for trying to work through them. I found her wisdom to be comforting and a wonderful reminder of how much grace we all need, as we simply don’t know what we’re each facing in life.
#43: Nothing to Prove by Jennie Allen
Nourishment for my soul. That’s what this book was for me. So much so that this is the fifth time I’ve read it. If your soul is thirsty, read this book. If you find yourself believing you’re not good enough, read this book. If you feel like your whole life is about pleasing people, read this book. If your cup is empty, read this book. Long story short, read this book.
As always, please share your must-reads with me!!
Happy reading and be well!
