Oh my gosh! I can’t believe 2022 is coming to a close and here we are again talking about the best books I had the pleasure of reading this year. Let me just say that this year has been incredible in so many ways, despite the fact that it started pretty roughly. The first half felt like an uphill battle, but things started to even out and become a lot more exciting (in a fun way!) after Eid. Needless to say, I had a lot of chance to flip through books and—guess what?—they were such high quality too!
This year I managed to surpass my Goodreads goal of 30 books—by 34, so far, but there’s still a week left and I’d love to hit one more. As to the books I picked this year, most of them are nonfiction—with only 25% of them being fiction and 1 poetry book. I’m not entirely sure why, but I just had a constant hankering for nonfiction reads this year—which worked out well, because they are all 3 stars and above. Sadly, there was one 2-star book that was entirely unexpected to me. Regardless, it was a tremendous reading year. Without further ado, here is the countdown of the best books of 2022!
Oh my gosh! I can’t believe 2022 is coming to a close and here we are again talking about the best books I had the pleasure of reading this year. Let me just say that this year has been incredible in so many ways, despite the fact that it started pretty roughly. The first half felt like an uphill battle, but things started to even out and become a lot more exciting (in a fun way!) after Eid. Needless to say, I had a lot of chance to flip through books and—guess what?—they were such high quality too!
This year I managed to surpass my Goodreads goal of 30 books—by 34, so far, but there’s still a week left and I’d love to hit one more. As to the books I picked this year, most of them are nonfiction—with only 25% of them being fiction and 1 poetry book. I’m not entirely sure why, but I just had a constant hankering for nonfiction reads this year—which worked out well, because they are all 3 stars and above. Sadly, there was one 2-star book that was entirely unexpected to me. Regardless, it was a tremendous reading year. Without further ado, here is the countdown of the best books of 2022!
#10: Rendang
by Will Harris
As someone who almost never reads poetry, I find it hard to believe that a book of lyrical texts will make it to the top ten of any year. This book, however, caught me at first sight with its unique title and bold typography. Apparently, the author is British-Indonesian whose mother comes from Padang, West Sumatra—the origin of Rendang. The poems written in this book all tell a story about the longing to belong, about one’s origins and identity. It resonates so well with a part of me who once found it hard to know where home was—and, for a while in this year, I’d still feel like that too, as you do.
This is the kind of poetry that speaks to me. The kind that uses stories to create a layered meaning behind the words, ones that almost sound dripping with wisdom.
#10: Rendang
by Will Harris
As someone who almost never reads poetry, I find it hard to believe that a book of lyrical texts will make it to the top ten of any year. This book, however, caught me at first sight with its unique title and bold typography. Apparently, the author is British-Indonesian whose mother comes from Padang, West Sumatra—the origin of Rendang. The poems written in this book all tell a story about the longing to belong, about one’s origins and identity. It resonates so well with a part of me who once found it hard to know where home was—and, for a while in this year, I’d still feel like that too, as you do.
This is the kind of poetry that speaks to me. The kind that uses stories to create a layered meaning behind the words, ones that almost sound dripping with wisdom.
#9: Perempuan Patah Hati yang Kembali
Menemukan Cinta Melalui Mimpi
by Eka Kurniawan
Even if I only ever read one other work by Eka Kurniawan—and watched another’s film adaptation—I have somehow become a relatively new groupie to his works. When I found out that this short story compilation was coming out, I had to pre-order it and was blessed enough to acquire a signed copy (eep!). Afterwards, I kind of forgot about it for a little while but ended up picking this title sometime this year due to its thin size. I thought it would be a great quick read to finish my challenge—and I was right.
The book contains a total of 13 short stories—each of which is lined with that Eka Kurniawan touch that is unique to only him. As with most short story compilations, I think there’s something for everyone—in the sense that some stories may become some people’s favourite, while others may gravitate towards the rest of the book. Some of my favourite titles include Teka Teki Silang, Cerita Batu and Membuat Senang Seekor Gajah.
#9: Perempuan Patah Hati yang Kembali
Menemukan Cinta Melalui Mimpi
by Eka Kurniawan
Even if I only ever read one other work by Eka Kurniawan—and watched another’s film adaptation—I have somehow become a relatively new groupie to his works. When I found out that this short story compilation was coming out, I had to pre-order it and was blessed enough to acquire a signed copy (eep!). Afterwards, I kind of forgot about it for a little while but ended up picking this title sometime this year due to its thin size. I thought it would be a great quick read to finish my challenge—and I was right.
The book contains a total of 13 short stories—each of which is lined with that Eka Kurniawan touch that is unique to only him. As with most short story compilations, I think there’s something for everyone—in the sense that some stories may become some people’s favourite, while others may gravitate towards the rest of the book. Some of my favourite titles include Teka Teki Silang, Cerita Batu and Membuat Senang Seekor Gajah.
#8: Atlas des Mondes Fantastique
Edited by PAM Hansel
You know, I’m a sucker for good, illustrated books that got their start from Kickstarter—this one was no exception. When I found out that two of my favourite French illustrators—Amélie Flechais and Yohan Sacré—was going to launch a book of fictional maps together with other awesome artists, I immediately decided to fund the project. God only knows what I would do with fictional maps, but who cares.
This book is actually a collection of fantasy maps created by 22 French illustrators, which can be used for role-playing games—not unlike Dungeons & Dragons. It is a bilingual book written in both French and English—however, the English is a little off here and there. Although I don’t play RPG, I enjoyed the maps thoroughly.
#8: Atlas des Mondes Fantastique
Edited by PAM Hansel
You know, I’m a sucker for good, illustrated books that got their start from Kickstarter—this one was no exception. When I found out that two of my favourite French illustrators—Amélie Flechais and Yohan Sacré—was going to launch a book of fictional maps together with other awesome artists, I immediately decided to fund the project. God only knows what I would do with fictional maps, but who cares.
This book is actually a collection of fantasy maps created by 22 French illustrators, which can be used for role-playing games—not unlike Dungeons & Dragons. It is a bilingual book written in both French and English—however, the English is a little off here and there. Although I don’t play RPG, I enjoyed the maps thoroughly.
#7: How to Change Everything
by Naomi Klein
You may remember that I mentioned Naomi Klein in a bookish favourite 2 years ago. Ever since then, I have been in such awe of Naomi Klein and wished to read more of her works. When I spotted this book at a local imported bookstore at a discounted price, I felt powerless to resist. I mean, Naomi Klein and climate change? What is a girl to do!
I don’t know if I was aware of this, but it was very hard to ignore upon reading the book: I am definitely not this book’s target reader. It turns out this book is aimed at young adults—you know, kids in high or middle school (or perhaps even younger!). The book makes great example of figures the same age as the readers—like Greta Thunberg—who are young but already doing so much to affect change for the future of the planet. Bravo!
#7: How to Change Everything
by Naomi Klein
You may remember that I mentioned Naomi Klein in a bookish favourite 2 years ago. Ever since then, I have been in such awe of Naomi Klein and wished to read more of her works. When I spotted this book at a local imported bookstore at a discounted price, I felt powerless to resist. I mean, Naomi Klein and climate change? What is a girl to do!
I don’t know if I was aware of this, but it was very hard to ignore upon reading the book: I am definitely not this book’s target reader. It turns out this book is aimed at young adults—you know, kids in high or middle school (or perhaps even younger!). The book makes great example of figures the same age as the readers—like Greta Thunberg—who are young but already doing so much to affect change for the future of the planet. Bravo!
#6: Prisoners of Geography
by Tim Marshall
Here it is—the book that started it all! When I saw my friend Uta read this book, I asked her straight away if I could borrow it after. The title is so incredibly intriguing, and the content does not disappoint. This book is actually the first volume of a 3-part series that discusses geopolitics of the earth’s nations. It’s so eloquently written and sheds so much light on why the world is the way it is today, particularly in terms of how nations interact with each other. Now I understand why Russia is always in the offence, how the US has become the most powerful country in the world and why the Middle East is in constant turmoil—and also, that the term “Middle East” itself may be considered a slur.
Not only did this book got me really excited about geopolitics and the way nations are formed, it also inspired me to read most of the book I ended up reading this year—especially learning about Islam that resulted in my Ramadan Reading. It makes me understand the world a little bit more and itching to find out even more, which is the best outcome of reading a book.
#5: The First Muslim
by Lesley Hazleton
Continuing from the last point, this is, without a doubt, my favourite book from my Ramadan Reading earlier this year. As a tentatively-practicing Muslim, I am ashamed to say that I had never learnt about Islam sooner. I have, however, read the story of all the prophets, although it was a much abridged version suitable for children. Needless to say, it left a lot out—and, obviously, was written with the goal to inspire faith and devotion, so definitely not impartial.
This book, however, not only offers more detail and outlook into the life of The Prophet, it also supplies depth and nuance that usual stories of his life never does. Hazleton did such a wonderful job of sculpting Muhammad as a mere human being, not a saint-like figure or public enemy no. 1. It allows us not only to understand his experiences better, but also relate to him on a basic and deeper level. That can work either way, however. It can deepen your faith in Islam and The Prophet himself, or it can actually backfire and make you believe less in the religion—since Muhammad turns out to be no better than the rest of us.
#6: Prisoners of Geography
by Tim Marshall
Here it is—the book that started it all! When I saw my friend Uta read this book, I asked her straight away if I could borrow it after. The title is so incredibly intriguing, and the content does not disappoint. This book is actually the first volume of a 3-part series that discusses geopolitics of the earth’s nations. It’s so eloquently written and sheds so much light on why the world is the way it is today, particularly in terms of how nations interact with each other. Now I understand why Russia is always in the offence, how the US has become the most powerful country in the world and why the Middle East is in constant turmoil—and also, that the term “Middle East” itself may be considered a slur.
Not only did this book got me really excited about geopolitics and the way nations are formed, it also inspired me to read most of the book I ended up reading this year—especially learning about Islam that resulted in my Ramadan Reading. It makes me understand the world a little bit more and itching to find out even more, which is the best outcome of reading a book.
#5: The First Muslim
by Lesley Hazleton
Continuing from the last point, this is, without a doubt, my favourite book from my Ramadan Reading earlier this year. As a tentatively-practicing Muslim, I am ashamed to say that I had never learnt about Islam sooner. I have, however, read the story of all the prophets, although it was a much abridged version suitable for children. Needless to say, it left a lot out—and, obviously, was written with the goal to inspire faith and devotion, so definitely not impartial.
This book, however, not only offers more detail and outlook into the life of The Prophet, it also supplies depth and nuance that usual stories of his life never does. Hazleton did such a wonderful job of sculpting Muhammad as a mere human being, not a saint-like figure or public enemy no. 1. It allows us not only to understand his experiences better, but also relate to him on a basic and deeper level. That can work either way, however. It can deepen your faith in Islam and The Prophet himself, or it can actually backfire and make you believe less in the religion—since Muhammad turns out to be no better than the rest of us.
#4: Hood Feminism
by Mikki Kendall
Like many women, I’ve always had trouble with the concept of feminism—which is strange for a movement that supposedly fights for our rights to choose. I thought that meant that I’m not a feminist, but this book opened my eyes to the underlying problem of feminism—at the end of the day, it’s not just about gender, but also about socio-economic backgrounds.
This book is exactly what I’ve been waiting for someone to say about feminism. That it’s not a one-size-fits-all movement. That the wage gap in Hollywood doesn’t matter if meeting your own basic needs is a struggle. That people finding period icky is the least of your problems when you can’t afford basic healthcare. That mainstream feminism has always been dominated by white women, who do not know the struggles of POC women.
#4: Hood Feminism
by Mikki Kendall
Like many women, I’ve always had trouble with the concept of feminism—which is strange for a movement that supposedly fights for our rights to choose. I thought that meant that I’m not a feminist, but this book opened my eyes to the underlying problem of feminism—at the end of the day, it’s not just about gender, but also about socio-economic backgrounds.
This book is exactly what I’ve been waiting for someone to say about feminism. That it’s not a one-size-fits-all movement. That the wage gap in Hollywood doesn’t matter if meeting your own basic needs is a struggle. That people finding period icky is the least of your problems when you can’t afford basic healthcare. That mainstream feminism has always been dominated by white women, who do not know the struggles of POC women.
#3: Educated
by Tara Westover
As someone who holds education and knowledge at such a high esteem, this book intrigued me immensely—and to read it around the same time I watched Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey was perfect! Tara Westover herself is such a great writer, in that she can give an account of her experiences as they happen. We get to see how she thought and felt as the events unfurled, so it felt almost as if we were there with her as they happened too. It gives the story a more emotional and raw touch that can and will get you invested in it.
The story itself was very hard to read. Trigger warning is absolutely necessary—violence, religious fanaticism, verbal and physical abuse. It gives you a peek at an abusive family who has nobody but each other. The most heartbreaking thing is seeing each of the children—and Tara, especially—come back to such a toxic household time and time again. It’s almost as painful as—if not more—watching a drug addict.
#3: Educated
by Tara Westover
As someone who holds education and knowledge at such a high esteem, this book intrigued me immensely—and to read it around the same time I watched Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey was perfect! Tara Westover herself is such a great writer, in that she can give an account of her experiences as they happen. We get to see how she thought and felt as the events unfurled, so it felt almost as if we were there with her as they happened too. It gives the story a more emotional and raw touch that can and will get you invested in it.
The story itself was very hard to read. Trigger warning is absolutely necessary—violence, religious fanaticism, verbal and physical abuse. It gives you a peek at an abusive family who has nobody but each other. The most heartbreaking thing is seeing each of the children—and Tara, especially—come back to such a toxic household time and time again. It’s almost as painful as—if not more—watching a drug addict.
#2: The Book You Wish
Your Parents Had Read
by Philippa Perry
Another great segue into the next book, this one talks about parenting. No, I’m not pregnant—not even married yet, mind you—but I’ve always been interested in parenting since everyone knows it is the root cause of everything that defines and shapes a person. Which is why reading this book is so hard on an emotional level.
Unlike most parenting books I know that tend to be very technical, this book takes us on a journey to explore how we would’ve liked to be parented. It starts with calling out our inner child and walking through our relationship with our own parents—basically forcing us to face childhood traumas and learn from it. Needless to say, I cried several times during the reading period of this book. I suggest you have tissue at the ready for this one.
#2: The Book You Wish
Your Parents Had Read
by Philippa Perry
Another great segue into the next book, this one talks about parenting. No, I’m not pregnant—not even married yet, mind you—but I’ve always been interested in parenting since everyone knows it is the root cause of everything that defines and shapes a person. Which is why reading this book is so hard on an emotional level.
Unlike most parenting books I know that tend to be very technical, this book takes us on a journey to explore how we would’ve liked to be parented. It starts with calling out our inner child and walking through our relationship with our own parents—basically forcing us to face childhood traumas and learn from it. Needless to say, I cried several times during the reading period of this book. I suggest you have tissue at the ready for this one.
#1: Doughnut Economics
by Kate Raworth
While I’m not an economist—or in any way works in the field of economics—and this book is pretty technical, I enjoyed it thoroughly. The concept of the doughnut economics blew my entire mind. I first found out about it after reading The Great Greenwashing Machine Part 1 report by Geneva Center for Business & Human Rights and supported by Eco-Age. I was determined to learn more, so when I found it at a local used bookstore, I knew I just had to grab it.
All this time I was trying to find a way to an economic system that would serve humans and the environment better—and here it is! Not only does it propose a practice that takes the planet’s health into account, but it also looks at labour from a wider lens—by including house work as well—for a fairer society.
#1: Doughnut Economics
by Kate Raworth
While I’m not an economist—or in any way works in the field of economics—and this book is pretty technical, I enjoyed it thoroughly. The concept of the doughnut economics blew my entire mind. I first found out about it after reading The Great Greenwashing Machine Part 1 report by Geneva Center for Business & Human Rights and supported by Eco-Age. I was determined to learn more, so when I found it at a local used bookstore, I knew I just had to grab it.
All this time I was trying to find a way to an economic system that would serve humans and the environment better—and here it is! Not only does it propose a practice that takes the planet’s health into account, but it also looks at labour from a wider lens—by including house work as well—for a fairer society.
Honourary Mention
Whereabouts
by Jhumpa Lahiri
Jhumpa Lahiri is one of those authors, whose work I will never want to miss out on if I could help it. She has written at least two books that I adore, such as The Namesake and The Lowland. This book is a little different; it is a short-story compilation—the first of hers that I’ve ever read. It tells a simple story of an idyllic life of a middle-aged woman who lives alone in Italy. At first, I thought it might have been the story of the author’s own life, but later on some parts revealed that it isn’t. Each story tells a random moment in the main character’s days, none of which seems to have any real weight to her life—except towards the end, which would change her life for a while, if not forever.
The only reason this book didn’t make it to the top 10 is because it lacks substance that most of the books in the list have. That is not to say that it’s unremarkable—all of Lahiri’s works are! The writing style, in fact, inspires me to start penning short stories of my own. I love how she keeps the mystery alive by not revealing key information about the main character, yet it remains such a light read. It’s also not very thick, so I would recommend it for a quick holiday read for anyone.
How did your reading year go? Did you read what you wanted to?
Share your 2022 favourite book in the comment!
Honourary Mention
Whereabouts
by Jhumpa Lahiri
Jhumpa Lahiri is one of those authors, whose work I will never want to miss out on if I could help it. She has written at least two books that I adore, such as The Namesake and The Lowland. This book is a little different; it is a short-story compilation—the first of hers that I’ve ever read. It tells a simple story of an idyllic life of a middle-aged woman who lives alone in Italy. At first, I thought it might have been the story of the author’s own life, but later on some parts revealed that it isn’t. Each story tells a random moment in the main character’s days, none of which seems to have any real weight to her life—except towards the end, which would change her life for a while, if not forever.
The only reason this book didn’t make it to the top 10 is because it lacks substance that most of the books in the list have. That is not to say that it’s unremarkable—all of Lahiri’s works are! The writing style, in fact, inspires me to start penning short stories of my own. I love how she keeps the mystery alive by not revealing key information about the main character, yet it remains such a light read. It’s also not very thick, so I would recommend it for a quick holiday read for anyone.
How did your reading year go? Did you read what you wanted to?
Share your 2022 favourite book in the comment!