The only personal development & how-to book curator

For Gen X women ready to embrace a refined, thoughtful way of life.

woman sitting in chair writing in notebook

You've dedicated years to others' needs, often sidelining your own dreams and desires. Now, it's your time to shine, guided by the wisdom you find in books.

  • Rediscover Yourself: Dive into books that uncover what truly makes you happy and reconnect you with your inner joy.

  • Elevate the Everyday: Transform your daily routines with insights and wisdom taken from each page.

  • Practical, Positive Steps: Arm yourself with books filled with actionable tips and step-by-step plans to achieve your goals.

If you, like me, find clarity in books and crave a deliberate, thoughtful approach to the second half of your life, you’re in the right place.

site owner, Jennifer Ayling

Hey there!

I’m Jennifer Letters—book curator & personal development​​ connoisseur.

Welcome to Curated Shelves, a place for Gen X women ready to build a life of intentional living through personal development books.

Women ready for a lifestyle change often seek practical, inspiring personal development and how-to books.

However, many of these books are filled with fluff or lean heavily on theory without offering actionable advice.

Who has time for books like that?

Since I read well over 100 books a year, I launched Curated Shelves to curate and recommend the best reads for Gen X women who are ready to focus on what truly matters.

Consider me your guide. While I’m not a coach or therapist, I am a dedicated reader and writer who turns the wisdom of books into practical, actionable strategies for life.

So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s read.

open book and glass of wine on table next to chair

My mission as your book curator

To help you rediscover your dreams and values through carefully curated lists of personal development and how-to books.

Each selection offers practical advice and inspiration so you can make the most of your second act.

Because every woman deserves to live the life she truly wants.

Fun Facts About Your Book Curator

01. I love black coffee, dark chocolate, American football, and the Oxford comma.

cup of black coffee on top of closed book

02. I read a lot. More than 100 books a year.

short stack of books and notebook with pen

03. My musical tastes consist of the 3-Bs—Big Hair, Big Band, and Baroque. 

cell phone and reading glasses on stack on papers

04. Confession time—I love books, but literature? Not so much. Don’t tell the English majors—they’ll revoke my reader’s card.

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Ready to turn the page?
Here are your next steps.

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Browse the book blog

Explore curated books and articles to inspire and guide you.

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Create a curated life

Apply what you learn to shape the elegant, curated life you deserve.

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Join the email list

Receive daily inspiration that adds value without overwhelm, helping you elevate your life with ease and grace.

Kind Words

  • "You inspire me to read more."

    ~ Kayla

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

    ~ Angie

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

    ~ Rebekah

  • "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