December Special πππ§βππ₯³
My Favourite Memoirs and (Auto) biographies of 2022 π.
Happy Sunday, Book Lovers!
Itβs the most wonderful time of the year: the time for Best of the Year book lists! In this week's journal, I will share my favourite memoirs and autobiographies of 2022.
And, of course, I want to know your favorite read of the year!
But first, I will like to ask!
Why should you read memoirs and autobiographies?
Reading memoirs and autobiographies can be a great way to gain insight into the life experiences of others. These types of books can provide a unique and personal perspective on historical events, as well as offer a glimpse into the inner thoughts and feelings of the author. Additionally, reading about the experiences of others can help to foster empathy and understanding, and can even inspire us to reflect on our own lives and experiences. Ultimately, reading memoirs and autobiographies can be a rewarding and enriching experience that can broaden our perspective and deepen our understanding of the world around us.
My favourite memoirs and autobiographies of 2022.
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom.
Mitch Albom's novel is about a professor named Morrie Schwartz, who was his favourite in college. Professor Morrie was spending his final days on Earth, and Mitch thought it would be appropriate to spend his final days with Professor Morrie. In the novel, they meet every Tuesday, and Professor Morrie imparts valuable life lessons to Mitch.
Why it stands out this year: Reading the book was an emotional experience. It also taught me valuable life lessons that I will never forget. Life choices, friendship, principles, happiness, spirituality, consciousness and existence, education, and compassion are among the major life lessons discussed in the book.
Will by Will Smith.
Will by Will Smith and Mark Manson is a memoir about Will Smith's life, beginning with the events that shaped his childhood, the days of early hip-hop, all the way through The Prince of Bel-Air, to making movies and becoming one of the world's most recognisable actors.
Why it stands out this year: I read this book this year when Will Smith was going through a difficult time in his life (the saga with Chris Rock at the Oscars). So, while the rest of the world was judging and cancelling Will, I was his staunchest supporter. Because I understood his point of view. Will shared his vulnerability, fears, weaknesses, and triumph. So it was an engaging book to read.
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a memoir that follows Maya Angelou from childhood to adolescence. She shared her experiences with various forms of discrimination, degradation, sexuality, forms of violence, motherhood, and racism in this book. We also see her love of literature and books, as well as how they provided her with strength and comfort.
Why it stands out this year: The book is easy to read, Maya brings you into segregated America. Most importantly, I love the theme of freedom where the book got its title.
Piercing the Night - A life on the edge in Post-Amin Uganda. By H.Eberhard Roell.
"Piercing the night" is a memoir of Eberhard Roell, a man who is passionate about adventures and discoveries. He enjoys traveling a lot because it allows him explore different countries, continents, and cultures around the world. He served as a Christian missionary and aid worker in Post Idi Amin Uganda during the 1980s - which was a turbulent period of that country's history. Eberhard narrates how he survived alongside his wife and two children with the currencies of trusting in God in the face of uncertainty, purpose and courage.
Why it stands out this year: This book was gifted to me by my friend and mentor, Lengdung Tungchamma. He is also the publisher of Little Ends. Second, this book is the subject of my very first Substack book review. It was a lovely memoir to read.
Promise Me, Dad by Joe Biden.
U.S. President Joe Biden's touching and moving memoir, "Promise me, Dad," details a family's battle with a deadly brain cancer. The story is set against the demands of his duties as the then-Vice President of the departing Obama administration and the temptations of running for another presidential campaign. The narrative of the brutal realities of cancer, particularly when it affects your child, is extremely heartbreaking.
Why it stands out this year: This is a story about life, family, friendship, public service, the complexities of foreign and domestic politics, it's a story of hope, and it's a touching story of bereavement, especially for a close family member.
That's our journal for this week. Do not forget to share your book list with me. I hope to hear from you soon.
Xoxo
Christopher E.A.