In 2018, I had the pleasure of delving into some incredible books that left a lasting impact on me. As an avid reader, it’s always a challenge to narrow down my favorites, but after much contemplation, I have compiled a list of the top ten books I read last year.

1. “Educated” by Tara Westover – This memoir chronicles the author’s journey from growing up in a strict, isolated household in rural Idaho to eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University. It is a powerful and moving story of self-discovery and perseverance.

2. “Circe” by Madeline Miller – This novel retells the story of the Greek goddess Circe, who is often portrayed as a villain in mythology. Miller’s vivid prose and compelling character development bring new life to this ancient tale.

3. “The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah – Set in 1970s Alaska, this novel follows a family struggling to survive in the harsh wilderness. Hannah’s evocative storytelling and richly drawn characters make this a truly captivating read.

4. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid – This novel follows the fascinating life of a Hollywood icon as she recounts her marriages and scandals to a young journalist. Reid’s writing is sharp and insightful, making this a gripping and unforgettable read.

5. “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones – This novel examines the impact of a wrongful conviction on a young African American couple’s marriage. Jones delves into themes of love, loyalty, and racial injustice with nuance and sensitivity.

6. “Small Great Things” by Jodi Picoult – This novel tackles issues of race and privilege through the story of a black nurse accused of causing the death of a white baby. Picoult’s thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to confront their own biases and assumptions.

7. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama – In this memoir, the former First Lady shares her personal journey from a working-class upbringing to the White House. Obama’s candid reflections on her experiences and insights make this a compelling and inspiring read.

8. “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman – This novel follows the quirky and lonely Eleanor Oliphant as she navigates life and forms unexpected connections. Honeyman’s poignant and humorous writing captures the complexities of human relationships with warmth and empathy.

9. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens – This novel tells the story of a young girl living in the marshes of North Carolina who becomes the suspect in a murder investigation. Owens’ evocative descriptions of nature and compelling mystery make this a mesmerizing read.

10. “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” by Heather Morris – This novel is based on the true story of a Holocaust survivor who falls in love with a fellow prisoner at Auschwitz. Morris’s depiction of love and resilience in the face of unimaginable suffering is both heart-wrenching and uplifting.

These ten books stood out to me for their compelling stories, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Each one left a lasting impression on me and reinforced my love for reading. I highly recommend adding these titles to your reading list for 2019.