If you haven’t noticed yet, I’m kind of a huge geek. I wouldn’t consider this a bad thing if I didn’t let it takeover my life. I binge watch like crazy when I find a new favorite show or replay a song 10 million times until I’m sick of it. This also applies to books. There are days where I’ve stayed inside and read entire books. Yes, I realize I have a problem, but frankly I don’t care. So for anyone who has the same problem let me aid in your addiction.
If you like John Green:
Everyday by David Levithan
This story follows A, who has no real physical identity. Every single day A wakes up in someone else’s body and he has to go through that person’s life. I read the book in a day and it’s easily my favorite. It really changed how I see other people and I think that’s the best part. Plus, the guy that wrote it was other Will Grayson for Will Grayson, Will Grayson in which he wrote with John Green.
If you have a bit more time:
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
So I lied, Everyday is tied with this book. Without getting too in depth, this book is about Liesel Meminger, who is given up by her birth mother to another family during World War II. What really sets this book apart is that it’s told from the perspective of death. Yes, death. Every aspect of this book is well-developed and well-written. If you saw the movie that was made a couple of years ago, don’t let that turn you away because the book is so much better. When you get hooked in this story, you will not put it down.
If you are a hardcore TV junkie:
The Walking Dead
While the TV show has created a divide amongst fans throughout it’s run, the graphic novels the show is based on are amazing. Most people kind of scoff at the idea of comic books, but it’s a good way to dive into a different side of literature. Plus, it’s a nice break from all the young-adult books that are majority of what I read.
If you want to be successful in business:
Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
I’ve always been big on constantly improving myself as a person. As a female hoping to find success in a very competitive, male-dominated field; this book is perfect for me. The advice is very insightful and it answers a lot of questions that are always running through my mind when I’m interacting with other on a professional level. The advice can apply to anyone (though it is primarily focused on female struggles) and any industry. No matter who you are, you will learn something from this book.
If you need to take a chill pill:
10% Happier by Dan Harris
On the other side of things, I tend to overwork myself and in the process forget to take care of myself. My mom says I have a problem and she’s definitely right. I’m reading this book right now and it’s definitely driven to try and take a step back. It’s all about dealing with panic attacks and anxiety (both of which I have) through meditation. With the chaos of today’s world, I think this is advice most of us a need. And if you think it may be a little to dry for you, here’s the first line: “I initially wanted to call this book The Voice in My Head is an Asshole. However, that title was deemed inappropriate for a man whose day job requires him to abide by FCC decency standards.”
If you’re sick of going to the gym/want to learn how to fly:
A Beginner’s Guide to Aerial Silk by Jill Franklin
I hate going to the gym so much. I do it but I’m forcing myself so it’s easy to get off track for a bit. My mom (who reads these articles) will probably freak out with this because I’m probably going to sign up for an aerial silks class in Nashville so I can improve my strength and flexibility. Though there’s no substitute for practicing on the silks, this guide helps with stretching and conditioning so you can get better quickly. Plus, I’ve always wanted to fly and this seems like so much fun.
If you want Ellen DeGeneres to be your best friend:
I can’t help you, but the next best thing would be to read Seriously, I’m Kidding which is one of her many autobiographies. It’s absolutely hilarious because it’s Ellen. Need I say more?
