December 2022 Reads — Stacey Loscalzo Reads

Somehow in a month that felt beyond chaotic, I read a ton. Read on to learn more about the books I read to close out 2022.

DECEMBER READS

The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan- I love a good mystery with a compelling detective so I was thrilled to discover this first book in a series. I will continue reading future Detective Cormac Reilly books for sure.

Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting by Clare Pooley- This book was the most pleasant surprise. A lot of trusted recommendation sources loved Iona so I am not sure why I put off reading it but I am glad I did because I ended up reading it at just the right time. I don’t often like ‘charming, feel good’ reads but every time I think about the characters in this book, I can’t help but smile.

The Town of Babylon by Alejandro Varela- Last year, one of my favorite reading experiences was reading the entire Aspen Words Literary Prize long list. This was my first Aspen Words read for this year and I am glad I read it but did not love it.

Now is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson- I loved Wilson’s earlier book Nothing to See Here so much that I was nervous to read this one- worried that it wouldn’t be anywhere near as good. I am not sure if recency bias is at work or not but I actually liked this one even more. It made me think about friendship and art is such interesting ways.

Greenwood by Michael Christie- What an amazing book. The structure, the characters, the story, the writing. Just all of it. It is possible, if I was ever able to chose favorites, that Greenwood would be an all time favorite book.

To Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky Chambers- Books like this are why I love bookclubs. Were it not for the Fiction Matters book club, I would have never chosen to read this book but because of it, I am now inspired to read more sci-fi. The questions this story posed and the discussions that took place during our book club were so fascinating.

We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo- And books like this are why I am so grateful for buddy reads. I am in a group of fellow readers who consistently chose to read books that I have never ever heard of including New Names. I didn’t love this book but am grateful to have been exposed to a book outside my comfort zone and even more grateful to have thoughtful reader friends to discuss books with.