We’ve reached the middle of the year, and as I reflect, I’m amazed by how much I’ve learned. One habit I’ve carried since childhood—greatly encouraged by my family and a complex interaction in schools—is reading. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, educational material, a Google search—I experience wonder with whatever I choose to read. I usually share it with those around me, and I decided to do the same on my only social media platform.
Here are, in no particular order, the books I’ve enjoyed the most in 2023 so far:
1. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, by Lori Gottlieb
Perhaps some friends and clients ended up reading this book due to my enthusiastic insistence. The first-person story of a therapist, her clients, and her own therapist captivated me, made me laugh out loud and cry within just three pages, and helped me discover so much about myself and the art of caregiving. It’s the deeply personal journey of a human being, told through fluid and irresistible writing.
2. Circe, by Madeline Miller
A novel that dives into Greek mythology, bringing an archetypal representation of femininity, masculinity, and socially assigned values that are rarely questioned. All of this unfolds against the backdrop of famous and lesser-known characters from stories like The Iliad and the generations of Titans and Greek gods. A delightful read.
3. The Velvet Rage, by Alan Downs
A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the struggles of gay men—whether you’re a friend, a therapist, or one yourself. The subtitle is compelling: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man’s World. The author, a psychotherapist, explores these issues based on his personal experience, the experiences of his friends, and those of his clients. It can be a difficult read, touching on one’s deepest vulnerabilities, but it offers a compassionate perspective, reminding us that we are not alone.
4. The Illuminated Tantra, by Christopher D. Wallis
A key text from my yoga training—having completed 200 hours of coursework, I now have the rest of my life to study and practice the teachings of the Tantric tradition. Many of the concepts presented by Hareesh were already within me before I started reading (and I’m still far from finishing), thanks to my beloved teachers. The cherry on top was meeting him in person and receiving a hug at a workshop here in São Paulo.
5. Monica’s Gang Almanac, by Maurício de Souza
It’s like having a child’s brain, without any negative connotation. Walking past a newsstand, looking at it, thinking, “Why not take it home?” and putting it in my bag (after paying, of course) required more courage than writing this post, for example. And then comes the reminder that we can integrate everything we once were with everything we are now. And that connects to all the other readings listed here.
Oh, I’m open to book suggestions too!
Have a great week!
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