2026 Pithy Book Reviews
#1. The Parkinson’s Plan by Ray Dorsey MD and Michael S Okun MD: My dad died with Parkinson’s in 2021 after being diagnosed in 1998 in his late 50s. I learned a lot from this book and recommend it to anyone who wants to know more.
#2. A Complete Fiction by R.L. Maizes: First novel of 2026 and a worthy one! I really enjoyed the sense of humor of PJ (one of the point of view characters) and the earnestness and sensitivity of George (the other one). The story felt very original and a good commentary on the constant callout culture we are living under.
#3. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi: Am I the only one who found this book hard to get through? I liked the premise, but it could have been half as long. Struggled through it.
#4. I found her ex-husband’s sudden about-face very, chilling and I could not stop listening as I waited for an explanation. I did the audio and highly recommend it.
#5. Half His Age by Jeanette McCurdy: Yikes, dark and depressing, but also oddly an entertaining read at the same time. I did the audio, which Jennette McCurdy narrates herself. (That’s not common for a novel, but she’s an actress so it makes sense.)
#6. Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose by Jennifer Breheny Wallace: This book would make a great book for anyone retiring or anyone who is close to someone retiring to help understand what is essential. Honestly, it’s good for everyone! Did the audio.
#7.
#8. The ADHD Field Guide for Adults by Cate Osborn and Erik Gude: This book is for people with ADHD and the people who love them. The layout is great and easy to read. I really enjoyed speaking to Cate and Erik for episode 187: “How ADHD Affects Adult Friendships”
#9. This is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman: Not a fast read for me, but I respect Goodman’s writing and characterization. This one could have used more forward motion.
#10. Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life by Ezekiel J., Emanual, MD: While you’ve heard every piece of this health advice before, I still found it such a delightful and helpful read.
#11. The Book of Women’s Friendship: (edited by) Rachel Cooke: Reading this one in an on-going manner. It’s a not a sit down and read page to page kind of book. It’s a ton of quotes and excerpts.
#12. Why We Click: The Emerging Science of Interpersonal Synchrony by Kate Murphy: Excellent book to understand more what makes some people feel in synch and others, not so much. I did the audio and genuinely enjoyed it.
#13. Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven: I did the audio on this one and felt it was a really good performance. The story reminds me a bit of The Truman Show, but it’s not the same. I liked the characters, the story, and the setting.
#14. Heart the Lover by Lily King: One of my favorite novels of the year so far. It’s a quick read and full of lightness AND heaviness and so much familiar emotion. Highly recommend.
#15. Clutch by Emily Nemens: I like the premise but struggling to connect with the characters– taking a break for a bit
#16. With Friends Like You by Amy Chozick: currently reading via netgalley.com
#17. Good People by Patmeea Sabit: currently listening
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