This year, I found myself immersed in stories that opened my heart to new characters, offered profound insights into social justice, and illuminated diverse perspectives on histories. These audiobooks not only deepened my understanding of complex topics but also connected me to the voices of contemporary non-fiction authors who bravely share their experiences. What follows is a list of the works that most inspired, challenged, and expanded my worldview, each leaving an unforgettable and profound mark on my artistic and personal journey.
Siddharth Kara provides a critical look at the global demand for cobalt, focusing on the exploitation and human rights abuses in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Through investigative reporting, Kara exposes the environmental destruction and economic forces behind cobalt mining, urging readers to confront the ethical implications of their dependence on technologies powered by cobalt.
My perspective: This book has profoundly shaped my artistic practice by revealing the hidden connections between resource extraction, environmental degradation, and social injustice. It has significantly influenced the direction of my Emily Carr Master’s thesis. Kara’s work inspired me to weave these themes into my art, fostering conversations about sustainability, equity, and the socio-political implications of cobalt mining. As a result, I now view my ceramics through a new lens and am investigating cobalt mining closer to home.
Sunaura Taylor examines the intersections of disability, ecology, and environmental justice, using the American Southwest desert as a lens to explore how industrial exploitation and environmental degradation impact both landscapes and the bodies that inhabit them. Through a blend of personal narrative and disability theory, Taylor challenges readers to rethink environmental harm and resilience.
My perspective: This book has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of the interconnectedness between environmental degradation and human impact, particularly through the lens of disability. Taylor’s concept of the Disabilocene provided me with the language to explore how systems of power create vulnerabilities in both ecological and human contexts. Her work inspires me to emphasize themes of resilience, interconnectedness, and care in my art, especially in addressing the impacts of resource extraction. It has also deepened my commitment to integrating accessibility into my creative practice.
3. Monkman, Kent. The Memoirs of Miss Chief Eagle Testickle, Volumes 1 and 2. 2024.
Kent Monkman’s Memoirs of Miss Chief Eagle Testickle is a game-changer. The history is utterly engaging, and as someone who appreciates a well-placed footnote, I found it brilliantly executed. Monkman’s ability to honor his culture while navigating academic frameworks is remarkable. By introducing a settler perspective to an alternative version of history, Monkman straddles two worlds, offering essential reading for every Canadian.
My perspective: Monkman’s memoirs resonate deeply with my interest in exploring narratives of power, extraction, and ecological justice. This work broadened my understanding of Canada’s true history and offered new perspectives on identity, colonization, and resilience—issues that are central to my artistic exploration.
In Cobalt: Cradle of the Demon Metals, Charlie Angus delves into the history and modern significance of cobalt, tracing its journey from a critical pigment to a vital resource for contemporary technology. The book underscores the ethical, environmental, and geopolitical issues surrounding cobalt mining, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where much of the world’s supply is extracted.
My perspective: Angus’s work directly informs my artistic practice as I explore the intersections of resource extraction, technology, and environmental responsibility. The book deepens my understanding of cobalt’s dual role—both as a historical pigment and as a critical material for modern electronic devices. This insight will guide my exploration of cobalt’s ethical and ecological implications, fostering a broader conversation on sustainability and industry in my art.
5. Roberts, Jason. Every Living Thing The Great and Deadly Race to Know All Life. Double day, 2024.
Jason Roberts explores humanity’s relentless quest to document and classify all forms of life, blending history, science, and storytelling. He highlights early naturalists' attempts to catalog biodiversity, showing how these efforts reflect a fragmented and hierarchical view of nature.
My perspective: Roberts’ exploration resonates deeply with my focus on interconnectedness within museums, ecological, and societal systems. As someone who works with nomenclature in museums, I found the humor and ambition of these early naturalists enlightening. The book challenges hierarchical frameworks that continue to shape today’s scientific and cultural landscapes, offering insights that inform my own work.
6. Bohannon, Cat. Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Evolution. Knopf, 2023.
Cat Bohannon’s Eve traces the evolutionary significance of the female body, uncovering overlooked narratives that span millions of years. She explores the complex adaptations of the female form and its pivotal role in evolution.
My perspective: This book inspires me to elevate marginalized perspectives in my practice, challenging the patriarchal exclusion of female narratives. Bohannon’s emphasis on interconnectedness aligns with my goal of deconstructing hierarchical systems in art and encouraging a more inclusive approach to storytelling.
7. Comen, Elizabeth. All in Her Head. HarperCollins, 2024.
Elizabeth Comen delves into mental health, identity, and resilience in All in Her Head, examining the societal pressures women face and the personal struggles they endure. The book unpacks historical misconceptions, such as "bicycle face," and highlights how patriarchal systems have controlled women’s bodies and narratives, while offering new perspectives and language for moving forward.
My perspective: This book’s themes resonate with my exploration of resilience in art and the undervaluation of women’s contributions throughout history. Comen’s narrative emphasizes the challenges of breaking free from past misinterpretations, inspiring me to address the costs of exclusionary systems in my work. Her perspective provides valuable tools for weaving personal and collective challenges into creative expression, underscoring the importance of reclaiming agency and fostering equity in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Ben Goldfarb’s Crossings examines how infrastructure, particularly roads, impacts ecosystems and wildlife. Highlighting stories such as Banff National Park’s wildlife crossings and grassroots efforts to protect species like butterflies and wood frogs, Goldfarb celebrates the people working to mitigate the ecological consequences of human development.
My perspective: Goldfarb was the grandprize winner of the 2024 Banff Mountain Book Competition Winner of the Rachel Carson Award for Excellence in Environmental Journalism and it is because this book is amazing. Goldfarb’s work aligns with my interest in interconnected systems, particularly the relationship between industrial infrastructure and the materials I use in art. His exploration of road ecology deepens my understanding of sustainability, inspiring me to think about how infrastructure reshapes landscapes and influences ecological patterns. The stories of community-driven efforts to protect wildlife inspire me to consider how art can similarly foster connections and advocate for ecological responsibility.
9. Odell, Jenny. How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy. Melville House, 2019.
Jenny Odell’s How to Do Nothing challenges the productivity-driven attention economy, advocating for deep observation and connection with the natural world. Odell explores how art and environmental engagement can foster ecological awareness and resistance to extractive systems.
My perspective: Odell is one of my favourite authors and is on my lists two years in a row. Odell’s philosophy complements my exploration of the balance between nature and technology in art. Her emphasis on attentiveness and resisting capitalist productivity inspires me to incorporate reflective practices into my work, encouraging deeper connections with the materials and themes I explore. By slowing down and fostering awareness, I aim to create art that invites audiences to consider their own relationships with nature and technology, aligning with Odell’s call for a more conscious and connected way of being.
10. Maas, Sarah J. A Court of Thorns and Roses (Books 1–5). Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015.
This fantasy series weaves themes of power, transformation, and resilience into a vividly imagined world. Sarah J. Maas explores the intricate relationships between nature, magic, and human agency, creating richly developed characters and compelling storylines that linger long after the final page.
My perspective: This series was a delightful escape for me this year, offering moments of disconnection and creative inspiration. I found myself deeply invested in the characters and their journeys, often reflecting on their resilience and growth. Their stories served as a reminder of the power of storytelling to connect us emotionally and inspire transformation. These books were a source of joy and creativity, and I continue to carry the characters with me.
11. Mercer, Rick. The Road Years. Doubleday Canada, 2022
Rick Mercer’s The Road Years offers a humorous, insightful, and deeply personal account of his travels across Canada. Drawing on years of experience from his CBC show Rick Mercer Report, Mercer explores the country's breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural diversity, and the shared quirks that define Canadian identity. Through witty anecdotes and heartfelt observations, Mercer paints a incredible picture of what it means to be Canadian, connecting readers to the places and people he encounters.
My perspective: Mercer’s reflections have inspired my consideration of place and identity in my as an artist in Canada, especially as I explore themes related to ecological justice and resource extraction in Canada. His humorous and heartfelt storytelling offers valuable lessons on the importance of context and connection, reminding me to approach Canadian history with both humility and depth. I particularly appreciated his ability to weave humor into serious topics, which aligns with my goal of creating work that invites engagement while addressing pressing societal issues. Mercer's narrative reinforces the idea that understanding a place's history and character is essential to addressing contemporary challenges like sustainability and equity.
12. Duhigg, Charles. Supercommunicators: The Power of Storytelling in a Digital Age. Random House, 2023
Charles Duhigg highlights the transformative power of storytelling in navigating the complexities of the digital age. By examining how narratives can make abstract concepts relatable, he provides tools for effectively communicating ideas in an era of information overload. Drawing on case studies from business, science, and media, Duhigg emphasizes that stories are essential for persuasion, connection, and understanding in a fast-paced, digital-first world.
My perspective: This book resonates with my artistic goal of fostering deeper conversations about extraction and sustainability. His strategies for engaging audiences and making abstract ideas accessible will help me bridge the gap between art and advocacy, ensuring that my work not only informs but also inspires action. I especially value his emphasis on storytelling as a tool for fostering empathy and understanding, key elements in addressing ecological and societal issues.
13. Grant, Adam. Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things. Viking, 2023
Adam Grant’s Hidden Potential explores the science behind human growth and success, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the power of incremental progress. Drawing on research from psychology and behavioral science, Grant challenges traditional notions of talent and highlights how individuals and communities can unlock their potential through effort and collaboration.
My perspective: This book deeply inspires my artistic exploration of cobalt’s historical and contemporary significance. Grant’s themes of growth and transformation mirror my efforts to reimagine resource extraction in ways that promote sustainability and equity. His insights into embracing challenges as opportunities have encouraged me to think more creatively about the complexities of materials and themes in my work. As I navigate the intersections of art, history, and environmental advocacy, Grant’s focus on unlocking potential provides a hopeful framework for fostering change.
14. Easter, Michael. Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Focus and Maximize Your Potential. Harmony, 2023
Michael Easter’s Scarcity Brain explores how scarcity—whether real or perceived—shapes human behavior and societal priorities. Through an examination of its psychological and cultural impacts, Easter provides strategies for overcoming the limitations of scarcity mindsets, allowing individuals to focus on what truly matters.
My perspective: This book challenges me to critically examine how perceptions of scarcity drive extractive practices, particularly in resource-dependent industries. Easter’s analysis resonates with my exploration of cobalt and its role in ecological and societal dynamics. His insights encourage me to reflect on how narratives around scarcity and fear influence our relationship with natural resources and shape environmental outcomes.
15. Kapor Klein, Freada. Closing the Equity Gap: Creating Wealth and Fostering Justice in Startup Investing. Harvard Business Review Press, 2023
Freada Kapor Klein examines the systemic barriers to equity in startup investing, advocating for justice-oriented approaches that create lasting change. She highlights the need for inclusive practices and equitable wealth distribution as key to building a fairer society.
My perspective: While this book focuses on finance, its themes of equity and systemic change inform my approach to art and resource use. Kapor Klein’s emphasis on addressing imbalances inspires me to explore how my practice can advocate for just and sustainable systems. Her focus on creating structural solutions aligns with my goal of using art to propose new frameworks for fairness and sustainability. By applying her principles to my work, I hope to contribute to conversations about equity not just in the arts, but in the broader context of environmental and societal justice.
16. Falk, Stefan. Intrinsic Motivation: Learn to Love Your Work and Succeed as Never Before. St. Martin’s Press, 2023
Stefan Falk explores the concept of intrinsic motivation, providing practical strategies for finding fulfillment and meaning in work. By fostering a sense of purpose and engagement, Falk argues, individuals can achieve greater success while maintaining well-being.
My perspective: This book resonates with my commitment to creating meaningful connections in my artistic practice. Falk’s insights into intrinsic motivation offer valuable guidance as I navigate the complex themes of extraction and sustainability. His strategies for staying grounded and motivated will help me maintain focus and passion in my work, even when tackling challenging or abstract topics.
17. Lorenz, Taylor. Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet. Simon & Schuster, 2024
Taylor Lorenz’s Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet delves into the evolution of internet culture, examining how online platforms have radically transformed fame, influence, and power. Through in-depth analysis and interviews, Lorenz highlights the societal impact of digital tools, shedding light on how they reshape social dynamics, economies, and cultural norms. She not only explores the meteoric rise of digital influencers but also confronts the challenges these platforms present, from ethical concerns to the complexities of online identity and the commodification of attention.
My perspective: This book deeply informs my interest in how technology shapes both art and society, offering valuable insights into the rapidly shifting digital landscape. Lorenz’s exploration of digital culture speaks directly to the role of online platforms in storytelling and advocacy, which are central to my artistic practice. The book challenges me to reflect on the complexities of navigating digital spaces, from fostering authentic connections to confronting the ethical dilemmas surrounding social content creation.
18. Klune, TJ. Somewhere Beyond the Sea. Book 2 of the Cerulean Chronicles. 2024
In Somewhere Beyond the Sea, TJ Klune continues the story of the Cerulean Chronicles, emphasizing diversity, inclusion, hope, and love—all themes that are deeply resonant with my values. The novel explores complex societal differences, the power of government control, and the harsh realities of orphanages, while painting a vivid portrait of resilience. Klune’s brilliant character development is brought to life by the narrator Daniel Henning, whose distinct and engaging character voices instantly allow listeners to connect with each character, further enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.
My perspective: What stands out to me most is the powerful message that "Hate is often louder than love," which has become a mantra I carry with me. I aim to be louder with my love—to not only share love in my personal life but also reflect it in my art and activism. The novel’s themes of community, belonging, and resistance against oppressive structures inspire me to reflect on how these ideas can be woven into my own work. As I think about the ways art can act as a form of resistance, Somewhere Beyond the Sea encourages me to explore how creative expression can foster inclusivity and challenge the divisive forces that seek to silence marginalized voices. This message continues to guide both my advocacy and my approach to making art that sparks empathy, solidarity, and change.
In the end, it's not about remembering every detail, but rather about how the threads of each book weave into the larger tapestry of my understanding. Each story offers a unique perspective, a new way of seeing the world, and even if only one idea or insight stays with me, it shapes my thoughts, my art, and my approach to life. By embracing the diversity of storytelling, I am constantly learning, growing, and finding new ways to engage with the world around me. In that way, each book leaves its mark, enriching my journey even if I can’t recall every word.
What are your top book recommendations for 2024? Leave your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s continue the conversation about the stories that matter most.
