Hi there Slow Down Society! Today, I’d like to talk to you about books. I love reading. Since I spend a good portion of my day writing and thinking about writing — reading is a bit of an escape for me. Today I’d like to share part 1 of a 2 part series all about my love for memoirs. 🙂
Memoirs offer a unique window into the lives of others, giving us the rare opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes.
In the latest episode of the Slow Living podcast, I explore why I love reading memoirs and how we can all benefit from diving into the personal stories of others.
Why Memoirs Matter
Memoirs allow us to experience someone else’s life journey—complete with their triumphs, mistakes, and growth—without having to go through the same struggles ourselves. There’s so much to learn from someone who has walked a different path, and memoirs give us the chance to learn from the wisdom and resilience of others.
I also appreciate that sometimes personal accountals can be rebuked — they may not actually be TRUE — because they aren’t fact-checked the way other non-fiction writing is. Instead, this is the author’s accountel — and ONLY the author’s accountal. That’s pretty cool!
In this episode, I share some of my favorite memoirs, each one offering its own powerful lessons. These books are not just stories—they are tools for reflection, healing, and growth
Memoirs discussed in this episode:
Spare, Prince Harry
Friends, Lovers, and The Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry
Educated, Tara Westover
Counting the Cost, Jill Duggar
Each of these memoirs offers something unique. From tales of royal life and public scrutiny to the complexities of fame, personal struggles, and family dynamics, these authors invite us into their worlds in ways that resonate deeply. These books remind us that no matter our circumstances, we all face trials that shape who we are.
Fiction Books for Balance
Though the focus of this episode is memoirs, I also mention a few fiction reads that I have truly enjoyed:
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine, Gail Honeyman
Beach Read, Emily Henry
Gansett Island Series, Marie Force
These novels provide balance and a touch of escapism, offering lighthearted breaks from the heavier themes found in memoirs. Sometimes we need a mix of both—the emotional depth of memoirs paired with the joy of fiction.
Takeaway: The Power of Stories
Whether you’re an avid reader of memoirs or just getting started, I encourage you to pick up one of these books and see where the journey takes you. In reading the stories of others, we often find pieces of ourselves. Memoirs remind us that every life has value, and that the lessons we learn from others can enrich our own journey.
If you’re ready to explore the unique lives behind these memoirs, I invite you to tune into this latest podcast episode. Let’s dive into the world of stories—both real and imagined—and discover the incredible wisdom that comes from walking in someone else’s shoes.
Until next time, keep slowing down and savoring the richness of life. Happy reading!
