Catherine Grum recommends
Catherine is the Founder of Catherine Grum Consultancy Ltd. She advises enterprising families on succession planning, family office creation, governance and philanthropy.
Catherine started as a lawyer at Allen & Overy, creating estate and succession plans and establishing trust structures and family offices. She then gained a broader perspective as a wealth adviser at Barclays Wealth, then head of the Private Office at Salamanca Group and was then Head of Family Office Services at KPMG, until setting up Catherine Grum Consultancy Ltd in 2023. Catherine has also sat on investment committees and the boards of trust companies.
Read on to find out which six books Catherine recommends, and why…
Growing up I absolutely loved reading and I could always be found with my nose in a book. This has continued as an adult although now I tend to prefer audio books which I can listen to as I commute. Looking through the last 160 books listed in my audible library, crime thrillers dominate with a more recent bias towards Scandinavian noir (Stieg Larsson, Jo Nesbo, Hakan Nesser and Karin Fossum etc). I like the way the mysteries occupy my mind as I try to solve them while the suspense keeps me listening. Aside from these, I like books (whether fictional or not) that transport me to wherever they are set and deliver a message or purpose that leaves a lasting impact.
The Beekeeper of Aleppo
Christy Lefteri
“The Beekeeper of Aleppo” by Christy Lefteri is a novel that left a profound impact on me, especially as a mother. It tells the heart-wrenching story of Nuri, a beekeeper, and his wife Afra, an artist, as they flee war-torn Syria in search of safety and a new life in Europe. Their journey is fraught with unimaginable challenges and loss, yet it is also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
What struck me most about this book is how Lefteri brings the refugee crisis to life through the eyes of one family. The personal narrative of Nuri and Afra is far more vivid and powerful than any news report or statistic. Their love, pain, and hope are palpable, making the broader crisis feel deeply personal and immediate.
Lefteri’s writing beautifully captures the landscapes and the emotional turmoil of their journey. From the bustling streets of Aleppo to the perilous crossings and refugee camps, every scene is rendered with poignant detail. The story is not just about survival, but about finding light in the darkest of times and the enduring power of love and memory.
I think one of the values of reading fiction is that it can really connect us to the human experience which makes “The Beekeeper of Aleppo” a must-read for me. It’s a powerful reminder of the individual lives behind the headlines and the incredible strength and resilience that can emerge from the most harrowing circumstances. If you’re looking for a book that will move you and open your eyes to the human side of the global refugee crisis, this is it. Tissues recommended.
Postmortem
Patricia Cornwell
This book and the series that followed still remain favourites of mine years after I first read them. “Postmortem” is the gripping debut that introduced me to Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a crime-solving medical examiner in Richmond, Virginia. Cornwell’s strong female characters, meticulous attention to forensic detail and her ability to craft a real page-turning narrative make them standout for me in what I have to admit is my favourite genre.
This first story follows Scarpetta as she investigates a series of brutal murders targeting women in Richmond. Using her expertise in forensic science she uncover the critical clues in a race to unlock what has been going on before the killer strikes again. What I found most compelling is how Cornwell weaves together the technical aspects of the investigation with Scarpetta’s personal struggles and determination. The result is a character who is both deeply human and exceptionally skilled.
Not for the squeamish, Cornwell’s writing brings the gritty reality of crime scenes to life, making you feel as though you’re right there with Scarpetta. The stories are full of suspense and I find them hard to put down right until the very end. It’s not just a story about solving crimes; you also become invested in the characters, their relentless pursuit of justice and the toll it takes on them.
For anyone who loves a good mystery with a strong, intelligent protagonist, “Postmortem” is a great read. It’s a powerful introduction to a series that has become a cornerstone of the crime thriller genre.
Wild
Cheryl Strayed
This memoir by Cheryl Strayed really captivated me. It describes the author’s journey as she hikes over 1,000 miles along the Pacific Crest Trail. Struggling in the aftermath of her mother’s death, her marriage breakdown and a period of self-destructive behaviour, she embarks on this adventure alone, with little experience or preparation, barely able to stand under the weight of her rucksack.
I really loved how vividly Strayed captures the breathtaking landscapes and gruelling physical challenges she faced. From blistered feet and brutal weather to close encounters with the local wildlife, every step of her journey is a testament to her resilience. At the same time, it deals with her emotional journey too. She writes with raw honesty about her struggles and how she finds strength, solace and ultimately redemption.
As someone who enjoys the outdoors and loves a good challenge, I found “Wild” incredibly inspiring. It’s a beautiful tribute to the healing power of nature and a reminder of what can be achieved with determination and perseverance. If you’re looking for a book that will move you and make you want to lace up your hiking boots, this is it.
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy
This delightful book was a Christmas present for my son, but I must confess, it was also a gift for myself. “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” is a beautiful exploration of friendship and the wonders of nature, accompanied by equally enchanting illustrations (you may well have seen some of these as they are widely shared on social media). The story follows four unlikely friends—a boy, a mole, a fox, and a horse—on a heartwarming and poignant adventure.
What makes this book so special are the profound yet simple conversations the characters engage in. Each represents different aspects of human nature: the boy embodies innocence and wonder, the mole is curious and pursues simple joys (especially cake!), the fox symbolizes the struggles and fears we all carry, and the horse stands for wisdom and tranquillity. The artwork beautifully complements the narrative, enhancing the emotions conveyed through their journey.
The insights in this book resonate deeply with me, emphasizing the importance of kindness, having courage to ask for help, and the value of being present in the moment. The language is accessible for children, especially when paired with the illustrations, yet it never feels simplified. The book is filled with short, impactful quotes that I find myself returning to often.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming and uplifting read that celebrates the essence of friendship and the beauty of life’s simple moments, “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” is a must-have. It’s a treasure for both children and adults alike.
Family Trusts
James E. Hughes Jr., Hartley Goldstone, and Keith Whitaker
The book “Family Trusts” by James E. Hughes Jr., Hartley Goldstone, and Keith Whitaker changed the way I think about trusts. While I have mixed views on the use of trusts, I was still surprised to read quite how many beneficiaries often have a negative relationship with their trusts, feeling burdened rather than blessed by them. In one survey they mention, as many as 80% of beneficiaries view their trusts as a burden. This negative perception is often due to the complexities and responsibilities associated with managing the trust, as well as feelings of disconnection from its purpose.
The book goes on to provide strategies to transform these negative experiences into positive ones. The concept of a ‘good gift’ is central to this. The authors make a crucial distinction between a gift and a transaction: a gift is given with the intention of benefiting the recipient without expecting anything in return, whereas a transaction is an exchange of value. The impact on the recipients can be very different. They argue that a well-structured trust can be a gift of love that goes beyond financial support. To achieve this, it requires careful planning, clear communication, and a commitment to nurturing the well-being of all involved. The book provides practical advice on how to build and maintain a trust that truly benefits the family, emphasizing the importance of positive relationships and emotional intelligence.
Another thing that sets this book apart for me is its focus on what it takes to be a good beneficiary. The authors emphasize that being a beneficiary is not just about receiving financial benefits but also about understanding the responsibilities and opportunities that come with it. They explore how beneficiaries can engage positively with the trust, fostering a sense of stewardship and responsibility.
For anyone working with trusts, this book offers a new perspective with its deep insights into the emotional dynamics at play. I believe that trusts aren’t always the best solution for families with significant wealth and this book reinforces that view. However, it also demonstrated how, when trusts are used well (and as part of a broader strategy), they can provide not only financial benefits but also support the personal growth and well-being of their beneficiaries.
The Top Five Regrets of the Dying
Bronnie Ware
Authored by Bronnie Ware, a former palliative care nurse, “the Top Five Regrets of the Dying” offers a unique glimpse into the experiences of patients nearing the end of their lives. While this is obviously a moving topic, the approach is caring and inspiring, rather than grim. Through her narrative, Ware gently conveys the wisdom gained from her patients during their life reflections and provides a compelling perspective on what truly matters.
Based on her experience, Ware identified the most common regrets expressed by those nearing the end of their lives as (i) wishing they had the courage to live a life true to themselves, (ii) not working so hard, (iii) expressing their feelings more openly, (iv) staying in touch with friends, and (v) allowing themselves to be happier. She brings these to light with stories that are both hart-wrenching and uplifting, emphasising the importance of living authentically and prioritizing relationships and personal happiness over societal expectations and material success.
This book is a gentle reminder that it’s never too late to make changes and live a life without regrets.