I’m back again with my annual list of interesting books I read during the year. There were a lot of great options, but I narrowed my list down to my best six, plus a look at what’s coming in 2022.
It was a busy year for artist and creator Lady Sara Richard. On my 2022 preview list, the highly-anticipated Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses and Heroes Handbook: From Aphrodite to Zeus, a Profile of Who’s Who in Greek Mythology, a book written by Liv Albert and illustrated by Sara, surpassed expectations. The origins of Greek mythological characters come alive through Liv’s interesting tales and Sara’s beautiful art.
Sara was far from done, though. Late in the year, The Dead Hand Book: Stories From Gravesend Cemetery was published. The Dead Hand Book is a collection of tales, a bit macabre, a bit sweet, but all thought-provoking. It honors the deceased while aiming to increase our understanding of death as part of life. Often open-ended, the stories encourage readers to ponder possibilities. Entertaining and mentally stimulating, The Dead Hand Book could even serve as a classroom textbook.
Craig’s Record Factory: A Young Entrepreneur’s Journey Through the 70s and 80s is described as a “nonfiction novel” by its author, Craig Odanovich. Part autobiographical, part reflective nostalgia, Craig’s Record Factory tells Craig’s story as the owner of a record store and later a video store. It dives into the world of pop culture while interspersing lessons of life, family and business. It is heart-warming, poignant and even educational. It immediately brought me back to my Saturday afternoons at Hegewisch Records.
John Cosper perfectly describes his Dead Park Plaza as “The Office meets Tales from the Darkside.” It is a collection of seven short stories of murder, mayhem and a little mirth at a seemingly mundane office complex. There is nothing mundane about the happenings or the writing though. A bit of quirky humor simply adds to the enjoyment. There could easily be sequels to Dead Park Plaza, and I hope there will be. Author of several other fiction works and co-author on many autobiographies, John has a growing section on my book shelf.
As a long-time fan of the Beatles, I figured I would like The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present by Paul McCartney, but this two-volume set is a masterpiece, a true must for fans of his. The Lyrics is 960 pages of photos, paintings, handwritten notes and personal insights from Sir Paul. Starting from his days before the Beatles, 154 songs are presented, with each one revealing a bit about McCartney. In the absence of an autobiography, The Lyrics serves the same purpose, perhaps even better.
DJ Corchin’s Do You Speak Fish? is clearly a children’s book, but as the grand uncle of two young ones, I find it valuable, especially in these times. It starts with a young boy being frustrated with animals not understanding him and ends with lessons on communication, connection and understanding of others. With fun illustrations by Dan Dougherty, it aims to teach children through a fun story, like all of Corchin’s many books.
Looking ahead to 2022, another book by Lady Sara is already on my radar. Kabumpo in Oz is the 16th book of Oz and the second by Ruth Plumly Thompson. Originally published in 1922, this edition features a new cover and interior illustrations by Sara. This is the story of Prince Pompadore, accompanied by his wise elephant Kabumpo, on an adventure to the Emerald City to marry Princess Ozma. Scheduled for early 2022, it will be on my book shelf shortly after publication.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
Read This Next
Global City Guidebook: Cancún
July 2025
Jul 15, 2025
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedJuly 2025
Jul 15, 2025Global City Guidebook: Cancún
Known for its powdery white beaches and brilliant turquoise sea, Cancún combines nature and adventure with the rich cultural heritage of Riviera Maya, offering activities such as diving in the largest coral reefs in the Western Hemisphere and exploring archaeological sites. Zona Hotelera, the hotel zone, stretches along 14 miles of beaches, glamourous resorts and a buzzing party scene. Downtown Cancún has its own locally focused, vibrant social scene.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
Daily
Jul 15, 2025Viking Announces Its First River Voyages in India on New Ship
On July 10, Viking announced its first river voyages in India, set to launch in late 2027 on Viking Brahmaputra, Viking’s new, 80-guest vessel built especially for Brahmaputra River. On this 15-day Wonders of India journey, guests will experience a fully guided land program with overnights in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
Daily
Jul 14, 2025Wellness Retreat Brand Launches New Programming in Partnership with Tata Harper Facials
With two properties located in Malibu and the Hudson Valley, The Ranch is a holistic wellness destination offering a variety of guided programs that incorporate principles of movement, mindful nutrition, wellness in nature and authentic connection. New initiatives include a partnership with Tata Harper Facials.
Sponsored Content
Three New Routes from TAP Air Portugal as Airline Celebrates 80 Years
TAP Air Portugal offers three new routes to Portugal: from Boston (BOS) to Porto (OPO), Los Angeles (LAX) to Lisbon (LIS) and San Francisco (SFO) to Terceira (TER) in the Azores.
Destinations / Asia
Jul 14, 2025Global City Guidebook: New Delhi
A city like no other, India’s exhilarating capital captivates with a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and scents. Delve into its rich heritage amid old-world charm; bustling markets; and architectural marvels alongside modern buildings, green spaces and swanky shopping malls. New Delhi’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultural history and status as an international melting pot.
7 U.S. Hot Springs to Put on Your Travel List
Slideshow
Jul 14, 2025Global City Guidebook: Cairns
July 2025
Jul 14, 2025Cruises
Jul 12, 2025Windstar Debuts Exclusive Air + Hotel Cruise Offer
Have your Polynesian dreams come true with Windstar Cruises’ new Air + Hotel offer. Receive complimentary economy airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tahiti (PPT) on select 2025/2026 Air + Hotel cruise packages, a value of up to $1,500 per person.
Sponsored Content
Sail Unique with Explora Journeys
SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.
Global City Guidebook 2025
Jul 11, 2025Step Lively in Fashionable Sneakers Designed for City Walking
Morgen Trainers, Black-Gum Colombian craftsmanship meets European-inspired style in Beckett Simonon’s Morgen Trainers. Handmade in Bogotá with full-grain Italian leather exterior and ultra-soft Vachetta leather lining (feel free to go sockless), these low-profile sneakers feature sturdy, vulcanized rubber soles and plush internal padding to withstand all-day city walking. The black-gum colorway feels timeless, but with five additional combinations to choose from, it’s easy to add some of your own personality while maintaining a neutral look that travels well with a variety of outfits. With slow fashion roots and lasting construction, they’re built to go the distance. $270.
ShareThis