Do you like getting a peek into what people are reading? I know I love it, so I wanted to share a quick peek into some of the best books I’ve read this year, with a little review of them. I read a lot, (it’s a big stress reliever for me and a good way to relax) so this is just a highlight reel, the best of the best.
This year has involved a lot of fiction, memoirs, self-help and parenting books. Sometimes I get stuck on a genre, but this year has been pretty well spread out across the board. Also, I’d love to know, what are you reading? Let me know in the comments!
At Home in the World: Reflections on Belonging While Wandering the Globe– by Tsh Oxenreider -a beautiful and wanderlusty tale of one family’s adventures around the world in a year, and their thoughts on belonging. I’ve been wanting to read this one for a long time and it did not disappoint.
Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids– by Kim John Payne -ah, this one was amazing! Simplicity parenting is a style of parenting that engages with less activities, less stuff, and more rhythm, more time. I love the idea of focusing on the bare bones of parenting and getting rid of all the excess.
Bella Figura: How to Live, Love, and Eat the Italian Way-by Kamin Mohammadi -Nick and I went to Italy in February, so I had Italian culture on the mind when I read this in January. This book caught my eye at the library and it ended up being so delightful. It follows one Iranian (from London) woman’s story about moving to Italy and the cultural differences she embraced.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success– by Carol Dweck -I’d heard tons about this in the self improvement industry and for a good reason; if you want to change your life and mindset this is such an important read. Carol Dweck talks all about the fixed mindset vs. the growth mindset, and the benefits of living in a growth mindset. This book was not only beneficial to me, but also so helpful in my parenting.
Becoming-by Michelle Obama-Michelle Obama is amazing! I had no idea how amazing until I read this book. She is an activist for children’s health, women’s rights and the betterment of our country overall. It was incredibly inspiring to hear her story from her roots on the south side of Chicago to the White House. This is a must read, whether you are interested in politics or not. Also, I should mention that I listened to this on audiobook, and it was so magical hearing her life, through her voice.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before-by Jenny Han-this is a sweet, easy, fun read. I tore through this book in a couple of days, it was so entertaining. The main character Lara Jean, is just sweet and relatable, and there’s a Netflix movie based off of this book too so you can watch it after (or before like I did!) for an added bonus.
The Secret Keeper-by Kate Morton -If you’re into mystery books you might enjoy this one. I unexpectedly really enjoyed it. Set in England in the 1950’s (what’s not to love??) and present day, it follows a family and unlocks a secret. There’s a twist at the end to keep you on your toes. I read through this one quickly as well, a good escapist read!
A Man Called Ove– by Frederick Backman -This one has been a hit all over Europe, and with good reason. It’s a tender story of an older man and his unexpected journey to finding community and friendship all around him. I loved the themes in this one, and it absolutely made me cry sweet, happy tears.
What are you reading right now? I’d love to hear!