Hey ,

Oh my gosh, I got so many questions about what's on my bookshelf! I am always so excited to hear back from my incredible readers, and I appreciate every little note I get! 

I thought I'd write a separate blurb about what I'm reading since there's so much interest. And since there are enough book clubs out there already, I'll call it:

Julia's Bookshelf

"Next Level" by Stacy Sims, Ph.D.

I've been following Stacy Sim's work for several years, ever since I heard her illuminating "Women Are Not Small Men" talk on TED. She was the first scientist to point out that a woman's physiology is completely different from a man's and that for women to succeed in sports (and life), we must learn to train (and fuel and hydrate) with our cycles. This was a revolutionary idea at the time.

Stacy's second book, "Next Level - Your Guide To Kicking Ass, Feeling Great, And Crushing Goals Through Menopause And Beyond," follows in the footsteps of her first and wildly popular book, "Roar."

This marvellous book delivers on its promises. 

It will ease your doubts, explain your symptoms, and give you actionable tools. After reading the "Next Level," I felt empowered and in control. Knowledge is power; well-researched, science-based, and peer-reviewed knowledge is best.

"Heartbreak" by Florence Williams

Speaking of well-researched, science-based, and peer-reviewed knowledge, this is where Florence Williams shines!

"Heartbreak" was one of my best book-finds last year.

The writing is warm, engaging and easy to follow, yet the book is well-researched and fully science-backed. Learn how your physiology responds to the shock of stress, trauma and heartbreak and what you can do to mitigate the damage. 

"Breasts" by Florence Williams

I was so impressed with "Heartbreak" that I wanted to read more of Florence Williams's books. "Breasts - A Natural And Unnatural History" will appeal to any woman who wants to understand her body better or anyone raising a girl. 

Did you know that the breasts are supposed to get less dense as you transition through menopause or that dense breast tissue is one of the risk factors for breast cancer? I didn't till I read the book!

I also didn't know that breast cancer research is significantly less funded than prostate cancer... more on that next week.

"More Beautiful Food" by Shelley Adams

This little thing is pure indulgence. 

I love food, cooking, and cookbooks. OK, I'll admit it - I love all books. I've been fond of the Whitewater Cooks series for a while, and this new addition to the cookbook shelf did not disappoint. 

We have just begun our great January ramen challenge. Need I say more?!

Happy reading!