Maybe it's a sign of getting older, or maybe its a sign of embracing my authentic introverted self: but 2018 was the year that I read more books than any other. And while I didn't love every single one I read, I certainly didn't read any that I considered to be truly awful (okay, perhaps my opinion on Hot Feminist is less than favourable).
However, I certainly enjoyed some books more than others. And because I want to share the gift of feminist non-fiction (aka, the only thing I ever read) with the rest of the world, here are my top rated books of 2018 that I really recommend everyone adds to their pile.
The Anxiety Solution
The Anxiety Solution is a fabulous book anyway, but for me is came into my life at a time when I really needed some kind but powerful words. I was coming up to some painful anniversaries and was doubting my own judgment on some decisions I made a year ago. What made the Anxiety Solution to poignant though, was that it was more than just inspirational words. Chloe Brotheridge is a trained psychotherapist and nutritionist, and offers practical advice for beating negative emotions. If I had to list my top self-help books of all time, Anxiety Solution would certainly be in it.
Milk & Honey
I feel a little late to the party with this one but, if like me, you didn't read this book of poetry when it first came out - I highly recommend it. If, like me, you've ever been in an abusive, controlling, or downright unhealthy relationship - this will speak volumes to you (I ended up crying). It's been close to a decade since the experiences this book reminded me of happened; and in some ways it was bittersweet to remember how far I've come and that healing is possible. Be ready for some strong emotions.
Eat Up!
Eat Up! by Ruby Tandoh is, in a nut shell, a love letter to food. And if - in a world full of diets, an 'obesity epidemic', and fatphobia - you don't think a book that celebrates food is fucking important, then get the fuck out my club.
To add to its depth, Ruby also explores the intersection of food and gender, cultural appropriation, food ethics, fatphobia, queerness, and class issues/access to food. While still remaining accessible af. 100% recommend, especially if you're new to food politics.
Why I'm no Longer Talking to White People About Race
Fellows whites! If you're looking to understand race issues in the UK and become a better ally, then here is your beginner's guide. Articulate, easy to follow, and honest. Must read.
Inferior
Confession: I might be a social science nerd, but chemistry/biology/physics hurts my brain and I knew STEM wasn't for me after one week of high school. So Inferior was a breath of fresh air; taking me on a journey through science in a way that was accessible, and explained the way in which it has failed women. I actually won this as a Patreon prize from my favourite YouTuber Rowan Ellis - who is the queen of everything feminism.
Poverty Safari
Last but not least: it is Poverty Safari by Darren McGarvey, which I am naming as my book of the year. Darren's writing is refreshing, accessible, and sharp; leaving me feeling woken, uncomfortable, and more conscious about checking my middle-class privilege. He grew up in a deprived area of Glasgow and doesn't hold back on explaining why Britain's underclass feel the way the feel - including giving it to us straight as to why so many working-class people voted for Brexit. I was called out multiple times in his book, and that's what makes it my book of the year, because if you're social justice work doesn't make you feel uncomfortable - then you're not doing it right.
What were your favourite books of 2018 that I should definitely put on this year's reading list?
Milk & Honey
I feel a little late to the party with this one but, if like me, you didn't read this book of poetry when it first came out - I highly recommend it. If, like me, you've ever been in an abusive, controlling, or downright unhealthy relationship - this will speak volumes to you (I ended up crying). It's been close to a decade since the experiences this book reminded me of happened; and in some ways it was bittersweet to remember how far I've come and that healing is possible. Be ready for some strong emotions.
Eat Up!
Eat Up! by Ruby Tandoh is, in a nut shell, a love letter to food. And if - in a world full of diets, an 'obesity epidemic', and fatphobia - you don't think a book that celebrates food is fucking important, then get the fuck out my club.
To add to its depth, Ruby also explores the intersection of food and gender, cultural appropriation, food ethics, fatphobia, queerness, and class issues/access to food. While still remaining accessible af. 100% recommend, especially if you're new to food politics.
Why I'm no Longer Talking to White People About Race
Fellows whites! If you're looking to understand race issues in the UK and become a better ally, then here is your beginner's guide. Articulate, easy to follow, and honest. Must read.
Inferior
Confession: I might be a social science nerd, but chemistry/biology/physics hurts my brain and I knew STEM wasn't for me after one week of high school. So Inferior was a breath of fresh air; taking me on a journey through science in a way that was accessible, and explained the way in which it has failed women. I actually won this as a Patreon prize from my favourite YouTuber Rowan Ellis - who is the queen of everything feminism.
Poverty Safari
Last but not least: it is Poverty Safari by Darren McGarvey, which I am naming as my book of the year. Darren's writing is refreshing, accessible, and sharp; leaving me feeling woken, uncomfortable, and more conscious about checking my middle-class privilege. He grew up in a deprived area of Glasgow and doesn't hold back on explaining why Britain's underclass feel the way the feel - including giving it to us straight as to why so many working-class people voted for Brexit. I was called out multiple times in his book, and that's what makes it my book of the year, because if you're social justice work doesn't make you feel uncomfortable - then you're not doing it right.
What were your favourite books of 2018 that I should definitely put on this year's reading list?