The Bookish Mindset

2023 may already feel like an age away but I want to look back on what I loved last year and share my favourites with you.

Non-Fiction is such a broad genre and we’ve got quite the range here! (Note that I’m counting poetry as it’s own genre and not included it into non-fiction – that one is next to be written!). We learn so much from fiction when we see ourselves in stories, but non-fiction can have just as much impact with the author speaking directly to us. Here are my six top non-fictions of last year and six books I thoroughly recommend you pick up.

The Transgender Issue – Shon Faye. Essential reading for everyone. That’s it, that’s my summary. But seriously, this is a book every ally needs to read. It covers all manor of trans issues that many cis-gendered folk won’t have considered. Read it and keep learning.

Just Sayin’ – Malorie Blackman. This is the memoir of the living legend that is Malorie Blackman, author of Noughts and Crosses among many others. As you might expect, her memoir is just as great as her writing. Reading it I could hear her in it, it sounds and feels like her. Brilliant piece to read, obviously a little bias here as I am a huge fan of her work

None of The Above – Travis Alabanza. Another memoir and just as crucial reading as The Transgender Issue. Alabanza tells us how it feels to live in a society that refuses to acknowledge their existence, as none of the above. A moving piece.

How to Say Babylon – Safiya Sinclair. Possibly one of the most lyrical and beautiful non-fiction pieces I’ve ever read, you can tell Sinclair has a background in poetry. How to Say Babylon looks at her childhood as she grows up with her Rastafarian household and community. It’s delicate and raw and heartfelt and just perfect. A must read.

It’s Not About the Burqa – Edited by Mariam Khan. A collection of essays from many Muslim women, covering a range of topics – thin storytelling, mental health and rejecting white feminism. It’s a brilliant reminder that Muslim women are not a monolith. Another absolute must for allies wanting to learn more.

This Book Will Make You Feel Something – Florence Bark. Let’s end on something slightly lighter. How about mindful masturbation? Yes you read that right. This Book Will Make You Feel Something is all about masturbation and honestly I loved it. There’s something for every vagina owner here, complete with stories to help get you off. Big fan, will keep recommending this one.

I’d love to know which of these you’ve enjoyed or what you choose from the list, leave a comment below!

Buy all these and more through my Bookshop.org storefront here.

Last updated 11/02/2024