Dear Friends,
What was your guess, 50, 60?
I read an article written by Sarah Boseley, in The Guardian, Jan 5, 2012,“Memory loss can begin at age 45, scientist says.” The article focused on the Whitehall II study that released scientific evidence that memory loss begins at 45, not 60 as previously thought. If you have fumbled to fit a face with a name the article heightens an awareness that the memory part of our brain declines as we age. Don’t panic there are various degrees of memory loss. More importantly, there is something we can do now to maintain brain health READ.
During this time of year, women request a list of my great reads. I added a few psychological thrillers to my list. Surprisingly, I enjoyed reading these books since thrillers are not my favorite. My favorite good reads are historical fiction.
I’m an eclectic reader with an insatiable curiosity about spirituality, history, and autobiographies.
I’m not an audiobook person, but many people prefer audio books especially with busy schedules. I think reading is important whether you like non-fiction or fiction.
Dr. Wade Fish, Director at Northcentral University’s Graduate School, said in the NCU blog, “Reading expands a person’s appreciation toward other life experiences the reader is not personally experiencing, especially when reading topics that are not related to that reader’s job or lifestyle.” Reading also stimulates the brain that helps in memory function. So read…you might enjoy it even if you only devote a half hour before watching your favorite tv show. Less I digress about watching television.
Here is my reading list. Maybe you will find a book suggestion that peaks your interest.
Non- Fiction
Power in Midlife and Beyond by Dr. Barbara Collins yes I’m biased my book is a good read!!
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson – Amazing research about America’s Great Migration.
Behold the Dreamers by imbolo mbue – Loved this book – Inspiring read great for all ages.
Pscho-Cybernetics Creative Living for Today by Dr. Maxwell Maltz – One of the first books I read about goal setting.
The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell – I have a personal connection in the chapter about Sesame Street.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot –Captivating book great for a book club.
Witness to Change: From Jim Crow to Political Empowerment by Sybil Haydel Morial. I met the author. A wonderful woman who inspires me to write a memoir about my father.
The Blues Zones – 9 Lessons for Living Longer by Dan Buettner – Excellent research about countries where people live well.
Peace is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life by Thich Nhat Hanh Meditation and spirituality.
SOAR by TD. Jakes – When you need a motivational uplift.
Letter to My Daughter by Dr. Maya Angelou – You know there are no words!
Welcome to My Breakdown by Benilde Little (A Memoir), My daughter introduced me to this local author in North Jersey. Wonderful read about grieving with genuine anecdotes on coping.
There is a Spiritual Solution to Every Problem by Dr. Wayne Dyer – One of my favorite authors.
Fiction
Still Life by Louise Penny
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
Historical Fiction
Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid (A memoir) by Bill Bryson – This book is hilarious. This is a laugh out loud book depending on your perspective about the baby boomer generation.
Enjoy your summer reading a great book. You might like the journey into someone else’s world. If you are a reader – please send me one of your favorite book suggestions. I might add your book to my great read for next year.
Blessings,
Dr. Barbara
Welcome to my new subscribers and the lovely ladies I met at the Women’s Symposium. Looking for to connecting with you in June.
