Jo Jackson’s Desert Island Books
Name: Jo Jackson
Job role: Chief People Officer
About: I am the new Exec director for People & Comms – accountable for the operational, tactical and strategic workstreams to improve the people experience for staff and patients.
Book 1: I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
I love the gritty, spy / secret service thriller books. This is a big, chunky read written by the screenwriter of the Mad Max films, and I loved it. It kept me so engrossed I drank far less cocktails on holiday, so I actually think it’s good for your health…! (his second book ‘Year of the Locust’ was long awaited, not as good, but still enjoyable).
Book 2: Misery by Stephen King
I’ve read most of his books and although I think they are all very intriguing, I really felt every bit of anxiety, fear and twist and turn as I was reading this. Plus I loved Baga Chipz impression of Kathy Bates on Ru Paul’s Drag Race (I have watched nearly every season – this show saved me during lockdown!)
Book 3: Intensity by Dean Koontz
Another tense thriller involving a serial killer and a brave woman seeking to save a little girl. I remember having palpitations at many points, and again was an avid reader of many of Dean Koontz’s books. I often wondered why I slept badly, and I don’t doubt reading about serial killers and horror stories had something to do with it!
Book 4: And Away by Bob Mortimer
Not much to say here aside from he’s a comedy genius and one of the funniest people in showbiz. I have watched Last One Laughing so many times and still howl very loudly each time (much to my partners annoyance…)
Book 5: The Anti-Racist Organisation by Shereen Daniels
This book really provoked my thinking with the directness and honesty of the impact of organisational and systemic racism. It made me see discrimination differently and provided a clear framework on how to improve, particularly with a need to be bold and challenge.
Book 6: Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
I find these so easy to read, lighthearted (but naturally with a murderous twist) and the characters all feel like someone we could know. They reflect some of the quirkiness of British society and I have thoroughly enjoyed them all.
Luxury item
An endless supply of diet coke…