Kevin O'Bryan

Tag: men who read

  • Reading 2023: Memoirs all year long

    Reading 2023: Memoirs all year long

    I would say I’m surprised that it’s almost the end of March 2023 already, however, the way time’s been running along, it feels like the new year has just begun (for me anyway).

    With a new year comes new reading adventures and I am here for it. This year I’m taking a different and ‘novel’ approach to my official reading list.

    After a year of reading multiple genres, based on last year’s list I decided to focus on a single genre of writing for this year, therefore the list will comprise memoirs and biographies only. I was inspired in part by Viola Davis’s memoir which reminded me of the power of a well written tale of someone’s life. It also connected me with the story of an artist that I admire.

    As with anything I do, the list of memoirs are eclectic and will cover many areas, while still satisfying my interest in the lives of the people being chronicled.

    The other big change is that I won’t be assigning specific months for reading as I’ll be taking these books on as I’m led.

     I do hope you love my book selections and will be inspired enough to choose a fave or two from the list. Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    Dust Tracks on a Road: An Autobiography (P.S.) by Zora Neale Hurston

    I read Their Eyes Were Watching God years ago and since that time I’ve been committed to connecting with Zora Neale Hurston as much as possible. I got one step closer last year when I read Barracoon   so it is only fitting that this year I read her autobiography.  Get your copy here .

    The Urgent Life: My Story of Love, Loss, and Survival by Bozoma Saint John

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    Many years ago I discovered Bozoma Saint John when she was head of marketing at Apple Music. I was fascinated by her sheer presence. She seems to own every moment she inhabits in a world that often doesn’t acknowledge or appreciate black women. Since that time, she has made several career moves, so when I discovered she was publishing this book, I was excited by the prospect to get to know more about her in a deeper way. Get your copy here.

     

    Sugar in the Blood: A Family’s Story of Slavery and Empire by

    As I continue to look at the history of slavery, colonisation and conquest, this particular memoir provides another perspective that we don’t often get to observe. Even as I explore my own history and that of my ancestors, peeling back the layers continues to reveal more. Get your copy here.

     Spare by Prince Harry

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    Curiosity has gotten the best of me and I wanted to read his words, unfiltered. Not to understand but to know. Not much more to it. Get your copy here.

     

    I’ll Never Write My Memoirs by Grace Jones

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    Grace Jones has existed for my entire life and it feels as if she has lived so many lifetimes. This Jamaican superstar is the epitome of where I come from is not where I have to stay. I can’t wait to learn more about her incredible life, so far. Get your copy here.

    From Harvey River: A Memoir of My Mother and Her Island by Lorna Goodison

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    I’ve loved the work of Lorna Goodison ever since I encountered ‘Bella Makes Life’ in high school. This book is also touching on another area of my fascination, Jamaica in the past. Get your copy here.

     

    Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

    The premise of this book connects with me due to the abnormal childhood of the author. Education has been such an important benefit to my life, it is interesting to learn just how it changed the author’s own life. Get your copy here.

    A Visible Man: A Memoir by Edward Enninful

    Edward Enninful first grabbed my attention based on his work and association with Naomi Campbell. That he is now editor of British Vogue is no small feat and I am fascinated by the life of someone with such a powerful position in media. I’m looking forward to learn even more about his background and his rise. Get your copy here.

     

    I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

    I’ve been an adult for a while so I was not exactly the target audience for Jennette McCurdy’s work on iCarly back in the day. I was however obsessed with SpongeBob Squarepants, so invariably, I came into contact with her work on the show. The title of her memoir grabbed me and as irreverent as it sounds, I want to explore.  Get your copy here.

    My aim this year is to have fun while learning and being inspired. Here’s hoping these books as well as any additional novels I read will help me to accomplish that. Let me know what you are reading this year.

    Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!

    Subscribe to the blog here  and share your content suggestions here.

  • A Book-ish 2022: Looking Back

    A Book-ish 2022: Looking Back

    It’s 2023 and I am excited for the first full year post pandemic (?).

    But before diving into 2023, I wanted to take a look back on 2022 at least, for one aspect of my life – reading.

    If I’m to consider resolutions for last year, the major commitment I made was to reading a special set of books, one a month.

    The full reading list was a specially curated set of books that I deliberately selected for each month and committed myself to completing the mission.

    To be fully transparent, while I did my best to read all the books, there are at least two that I am still finishing up as of this writing. Separately I also overachieved and read additional books not on my original list, so I guess this is just to make up for lost time.

    I want to take a look back however at four of the most impactful of the actual books I read in 2022.  If you were reading along, some of these may have also resonated, you can let me know in the comments.

    As for my books for 2023, I plan to begin that list in February along a special thematic curve… more to come.

    Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    King Leopold’s Ghost by Adam Hochschild

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    I can’t say enough about what this book did to me and how it forever changed my perspective on slavery, colonialism, how imperialism has and continues to impact the lives of so many black people (myself included). It clearly elucidated the decisions, the perpetrators and the outcomes of unbridled power.

    King Leopold loomed large throughout this book and in my mind, hell is too good for him. The book served as the one piece of literature that connected all the dots for me about not just slavery but colonisation and what the African continent truly lost. I had delayed in reading the book for years because I was fearful of the more gritty aspects, but what got me wasn’t the violence, but the calculated efforts made by men from so many far flung places that has had far reaching impacts across so many generations.

    I intend to reread the book at some point, not because I’m a glutton for punishment but because I know there are things I simply haven’t processed and need a reminder.

    Motherland: And Other Stories by Wandeka Gayle

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    My reading list from last year contained two short story collections, one by my forever fave, Olive Senior, and Motherland by Wandeka Gayle who I am proud to say I attended undergrad with, many moons ago. By far this was my favourite due to its freshness of perspective and earthy characters who I could identify with in a meaningful way. The circumstances in which some of the characters found themselves, were of course well trodden territory but it was Wandeka’s ability to bring a balance of intensity and heartfelt knowing that made the characters feel real and so easy for the reader to root for. I recommended the book immediately after finishing it and will continue to do so.

    Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo” by Zora Neale Hurston

    I remember years ago reading press around the release of Barracoon, not just for its subject but the tale around its actual publication. The book was written by Zora Neale Hurston but the manuscript was never published. The foreword of the book hints at why – it was too visceral a depiction of slavery and the involvement of black people in the enslavement of their own. Black intellectuals of the time feared the narrative, though true, and its implications. The story they feared was a first person re-telling of the trans-Atlantic slave trade from villages and communities all over West Africa, to the state of Alabama in the United States.

    Cudjo Lewis shares his story in the most human recollection possible and in exquisite detail that gives deep insight into life during the slave trade, for someone living on the African continent, in the 1800’s.

    For those who always ask questions about the involvement of Africans in the slave trade, this book provides some nuance and context. It’s heartbreaking however when you consider that his story was repeated millions of time, over the centuries.

    Bonus Read*

    Things I Have Withheld by Kei Miller

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    I am always excited to read the words of Kei Miller because he has a special way of telling even the simplest of stories and making them an entire universe. While not a novel I was ready to devour this collection of essays once I got my hands on it early in 2022. I immediately connected with every single one due to his clarity of voice and him simply “telling my whole life with his words.” The honesty and nakedness of his writing in the collection said so many things about being a Jamaican that I could never possibly express. I was able to personally thank him for the book and everything it meant to me.

    I’m excited about the many a journey the books I read last year afforded me and I am planning to continue into this year. I’ll be sharing those plans shortly but in the meantime, let me know about some of your favourite reads from 2022.

    Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!

    Subscribe to the blog here  and share your content suggestions here.

    Kevin

  • My 2022 Reading List: For the Joy of Reading

    My 2022 Reading List: For the Joy of Reading

    In 2019, what I will call the before times, I was very hopeful and aspirational and I put together a list of must read books for that year . On the surface, the list looked and sounded good.  I anticipated it would’ve been even easier to get done and complete the reading.

    Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out that way and I didn’t complete the reading list. And while I was able to read some additional titles, I just never felt right about not finishing those books. This year I am creating another list, which in addition to my book club selections should make for a rounded reading curriculum.

    This time, I’ve decided to be more direct with my choices and I’ll be choosing books that I am not only eager to read but also following my tried and tested method to ensure that I keep my reading habit, consistent: a mix of genres and formats. In addition, I am reading books I already own. This I hope will keep me interested, motivated and most importantly, reading even when I probably feel like I should be doing anything but. And I’m inviting you to read along with me for the entire year!!

    As a side bar, I do hope you love my book selections and will be inspired enough to choose a fave or two from the list. Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    January 

    My Sister the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

    I love reading books based in Modern Africa. The colourful and vibrant cultures of the continent can’t help but seep through the pages of books set in Nigeria, Ghana or beyond. This is a book club selection that I felt was serendipitous because I remember reading a preview of this book when it was first released. So I’m looking forward to diving in. This is the only book on my list that I don’t own and will instead be borrowing. Get your copy here.

    February 

    King Leopold’s Ghost by Adam Hochschild

    I had previously planned to read this book in 2019 but never worked up the courage to start it, so I intend to make this my February read and truly get into this horrific retelling of the exploits of the King of Belgium in Africa. Get your copy here .

    March 

    Discerner of Hearts by Olive Senior

    Olive Senior is one of my ALL-TIME favourite Jamaican authors. Her storytelling reminds me of early mornings in the country, with an enamel cup of mint tea with a lot of sugar. The way she captures experiences, relationships and moments is exquisite. Get your copy here.

    April 

    Feeding the Soul (Because It’s My Business) by Tabitha Brown

    I’ve been following Tabitha Brown ever since she debuted on Tik tok in 2020 and I’ve been a fan throughout her rise. I’m looking forward to  reading more about her journey and how she’s been able to build her life, so deliberately while exercising so much faith and patience. Get your copy here.

    May

    The Intuitionist by Colson Whitehead

    Ever since I read The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead, I’ve wanted to read something else he’s done. The great thing about his work is that he jumps across multiple genres, which for me, because you never know what to expect. One thing that remains certain, his talent is unmatched. Get your copy here .

    June 

    Motherland by Wandeka Gayle

    I purchased this short story collection by Wandeka Gayle based solely on the fact that we went to college together years ago and I have been privy to her journey for years. Seeing this collection actualized was a joy to behold and I cannot wait to dive in. I should also mention that June is #ReadCaribbeanMonth so wanted to ensure that a book by Caribbean writer was the focus. Get your copy here.

    July

    Robopocalypse: A Novel by Daniel H. Wilson

    I’m a fan of apocalyptic stories and I’ve the work of some of the best, so I admit the title caught me but what made this even better, is the fact that Stephen King himself described this book as “Terrific page-turning fun.” That’s an endorsement I can live with. Get your copy here .

    August

    Psyche by H.G. de Lisser

    For the uninitiated, H.G. de Lisser was a Jamaican journalist and author who died in 1944. He left a number of novels and forever immortalized the tale of Annie Palmer, that we have turned into Jamaican folklore, with his book, The White Witch of Rose Hall.

    I’m not sure his books are still in circulation because sadly, they never made them into the school curriculum across the Caribbean (or if they did, they are no longer used). I got my copy of Psyche at Bookland in New Kingston.

    September 

    The Pesthouse by Jim Crace

    I was on a book haul a few years ago and this book literally called to me and based solely on the description of the story, I decided that I will give it a try. Hoping for the best! Get your copy here.

    October

    Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell

    Any book by Malcolm Gladwell is an easy decision for me and I was intrigued by the premise of this title specifically because I am an introvert who finds it a bit difficult to let strangers in. I’m looking forward to the insights. Get your copy here.

    November Book

    11/22/63 by Stephen King

    There’s a funny story about this book. It was released in 2011 and I pre-ordered a hard cover copy and have owned it ever since but for the life of me, I never got around to reading it. I have read many Stephen King books over the years, but this one has been sitting, until now. Also, I decided to make it the November read because of the title. Get your copy here.

    December Book

    Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo” by Zora Neale Hurston

    With a year filled with so many varied stories, I felt it was apt to read the account of the life of the last slave shipped to the USA. I had mentally planned to purchase this book some years ago and then it was gifted to me by surprise, so I know I have to read it. Get your copy here.

    Of course, there will be other books in between, some are bonus titles that I need to complete and others that might just pop up. I am bravely making allocation for those and also inviting you all to join me on this journey. Here’s hoping you discover titles that you are interested in reading as well.

    What are some of the books you’re planning to read this year?

    Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!

    Subscribe to the blog here  and share your content suggestions here.

    Kevin

  • My Must Read Books for 2019

    My Must Read Books for 2019

    I declared 2018 my #YearofReading and what a year it turned out to be!

    In total I read about 14 books for pleasure, thanks in no small part to the book club I was invited to join by my friend Nakeeta. It help fuel my need to read, as well as kept me accountable and gave me new found ‘appreciation’ for Memoirs.

    On a normal day, I consume reams of information from the internet, be it news stories, feature stories, long reads, technical information for work, contracts, academic literature and everything in between. Because of this non-stop reading I treasure the opportunity to read whatever else I want and therefore make it an important point of duty to consume reading material that truly brings me joy.

    I read a lot of books in 2018 but the one that I am most fond of was Brother Man by Roger Mais probably because it was the book that accompanied me on the beach while I was on vacation and the story was so well told.

    Reading as an exercise is something I consider a privilege that many of us continue to ignore because of ‘busy-ness’. It takes a high level of deliberate action on our part to do it and do it well.

    Many people I know are aspirational readers, you know, the people who become readers when they see a book that you own. You dare make the mistake and lend them your book and you’ll either never see it again, or it will take a year for it to be returned.

    Year of Reading 2.0

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    2018 was also bountiful in terms of the number of new books I acquired, thanks to the seemingly never ending sale held by Novelty Trading Co. from their location move exercise. A few trips and many heavily discounted books later, my collection has grown considerably. So much so that I have decided to take a four month sabbatical from my book club.

    In so doing, I’ve created a MUST READ list of books for the year. This list is a must read, as opposed to just a reading list, because, while I will be reading other books throughout the year, I endeavour to read one book from my list each month.

    Here is my list of #MustReadBooks2019

    2019 Must Read Books

    January

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    Becoming by Michelle Obama

    Duh!

    February

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    The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead

    Since reading Homegoing last year, I’ve been looking forward to this book, almost as a continuation of that journey. So many stories and journeys my people endured because of slavery.

    March

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    The Power of Intention by Dr Wayne W. Dyer

    My older brother Pete recommended this book to me some time ago and I think it’s about time I give it a read. I’m being intentional about it this year and I will read it.

    April

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    The Same Earth by Kei Miller

    I can boast here that I know Kei in real life and have always been impressed by his talent. I’ve read Fear of Stones and Augustown therefore this book is catch up.

    May

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    Management Cases by Peter F. Drucker

    I was drawn to this book because, my life changed in a major way when people started calling me ‘Boss’ and actually meant it. Management teaches you lessons and the quicker you learn the better for you.  I’m also aware of Peter Drucker because he is so often quoted for his pronouncements on management.

    June

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    Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison

    This book seems to be on every list of books that all black people should read. It is well regarded and considered a classic of African American literature and at just over 500 pages it’s a compact tome that I am looking forward to diving into. Quick Fact: It was the only book ever published by Ellison in his lifetime.

    July

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    Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

    I’ve read The Outliers, his topics and writing style continue to fascinate me, plus he’s Jamaican, easy choice.

    August

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    The Book of Night Women by Marlon James

    I’m reading Marlon James’ books in the order he’s written them. John Crow’s Devil was a revelation so I am looking forward to finally reading this masterpiece before turning to A Brief History.

    September

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    High Performance Habits by Brendon Burchard

    This was a well-timed gift from Nakeeta for Christmas 2017 and I’m looking forward to internalizing the central message of this book and applying it to my life.

    October

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    Patsy: A Novel by Nicole Dennis-Benn

    This book won’t be released until June 2019 but considering that Here Comes the Sun was such an eye opener I want to cop this book real quick. It’s already on several most anticipated book lists for the year.

    November book

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    King Leopold’s Ghost by Adam Hochschild

    The history of Africa’s ruin is told by many and this book came highly recommended. King Leopold is famous enough for his atrocities in the Congo, and this book is a definitive retelling of that tale. I’m bracing myself for it.

    December

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    Dreams from my Father by Barack Obama

    Barack Obama is many things that inspires me and reading this exploration of his life and the intersection of race and culture is in line with other reading I’ve done on the topic.

    Follow along and help keep me accountable. Each of these books was chosen because they offer something that I expect will help me along my life’s journey. Dare I say, there’s something for everyone as it’s important for me to mix compelling storytelling with something to learn.

    Let’s make it a great year for reading together and share in the comments some of your #MustReadBooks2019 .

    Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!

    Subscribe to the blog here  and share your content suggestions here.

    Kevin