pile of mood boards in varying shades of blue with center image being a stack of books
woman sitting on floor reading a coffee table book

Every page turned is a step toward a life well-lived.

Better living with every book you read.

I help Gen X women elevate their lives by recommending the best personal development and how-to books.

Gain Insight & Inspiration

Craft Your Ideal Life

Elevate Your Everyday

woman sitting outside reading

You’ve spent decades caring for others, but now it’s time to focus on your own growth and well-being. Imagine the second half of your life, where you:

  • Rediscover Your Passions—Find books that reignite your love for hobbies and breathe new life into your daily routine.

  • Craft a Thoughtful, Stylish Life—Find guidance to live deliberately and beautifully, true to yourself.

  • Live with Inspired Simplicity—Discover books that guide you towards a more straightforward, fulfilling lifestyle.

These transformations begin with the right books.

I curate personal development and how-to books that provide practical steps, inspiration, and motivation. With the right reads, you can create the life you’ve always dreamed of.

By following my curated book recommendations, you will:

hand making notes on a piece of paper

Elevate Your Everyday Experience

Discover how small, thoughtful changes can infuse your daily life with grace and sophistication.

two hands writing notes on piece of paper

Cultivate a Positive Mindset

Overcome limiting beliefs and social pressures, and embrace the refined, elegant life you deserve.

cognac colored leather bag under a wooden desk

Transform Your Daily Life

Learn simple, easy strategies for adding elegance and productivity to your everyday tasks.

“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” ― Charles W. Eliot 

book curator, Jennifer Alexis

Meet Your Book Curator

Hey there, I’m Jennifer—the only personal development & how-to book curator for Gen X women.

Many women at our stage of life (who love to read) are ready for a lifestyle change but find themselves overwhelmed by the vast sea of personal development and how-to books.

You want selections that are positive, practical, and immediately applicable.

I launched Curated Shelves because I read over 100 books a year, which helps me sift through numerous options to focus on the best.

Each recommendation is handpicked to ensure it brings value, positivity, and practicality to your pursuit of an elegant and deliberate life. Let me save you time and guide you to your next great read.

Kind Words

  • "You've introduced to me to so many great books, which I appreciate because I only have so much time to read!"

    ~ Rebekah

  • "I love to read & can always count on you to suggest the best books."

    ~ Angie

  • "You are my go-to person to verify any book purchases I'm considering."

    ~ Kelli

  • "Loving your recommendations! I always know what to add to my TBR list!"

    ~ Leslie

  • "You inspire me to read more."

    ~ Kayla