There is no better feeling than curling up under the covers in the wintertime with a good book. But for me, the hardest part is finding the right book to settle down with. If your New Years Resolution was to spend more time reading (or if you need a new hobby to fill your free time), then here is a list of my favorite books from 2018 to get you started!
1. The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
First, I want to make a quick comment to preface this description: The History of Love is my favorite book. Ever. When I first picked up this book from the library in 2014, I had no idea that I was entering a romantic and beautiful word of love, loss, growing up, and self-discovery. I know this all sounds really cheesy, but it’s true. The History of Lovetells the story of a 14-year-old girl named Alma and an old man named Leo whose lives become interconnected through one book. If you want to read a beautifully written and captivating story that will make you both laugh and cry, then this is the book for you.
2. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
If you believe that you are awesome (which you are) but need some help unleashing your inner superstar, then this book will soon become your own personal guide to wellness and badassery. From talking to your crush to applying for that internship you had your eye on for the past year, this book will encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities in your life and be the best version of yourself that you can be.
3. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
This book follows the stories of a young blind girl in Paris and an orphaned boy in Germany whose lives become intertwined during World War II. Aside from its captivating story of two unlikely friends, All The Light We Cannot See is filled with beautiful prose that will make you want to become a writer someday (or, if you’re like me, switch to become an English major). If you’re a history buff or if you want to read a powerful novel about kindness and love amidst war, then pick up this book
4. Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
I discovered this hidden gem while perusing the graphic novel section at Barnes and Nobles (yes, that is what I do in my free time) and I was immediately hooked. The entire novel consists of hilarious anecdotes and pictures that represent events in the life of the author, Allie Brosh. From funny pictures of her dumb yet lovable dogs to amusing stories from her childhood, this author will have you laughing by the second page. If you’re tired of being assigned classic novels and dense readings, then you should take a comedic break and read Hyperbole and a Half.
5. Becoming by Michelle Obama
Have you ever wanted to learn more about our former first lady, Michelle Obama? If you do, then you’re not alone: the hard copy alone of this autobiography sold more copies than any other book in the U.S. in 2018. Through her memoir, Becoming,Michelle Obama tells the personal story of her life growing up, her experience in the White House, and how she found her own voice throughout it all.
6. The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
In the mood for a spiritual journey involving Christopher Robin and everyone’s favorite woodland creatures? Well, you should be. The Tao of Poohcombines an ancient Chinese Philosophy focused on living in the present with the tales of Winnie the Pooh to create a unique and endearing spiritual guide to everyday life. If you’re interested in philosophy – or if you love Winnie the Pooh (and who doesn’t?) – then you should check out this book.
7. My Friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf
When I first picked up this book, I was a bit skeptical; psychopaths and murderers have never been my primary interests, and Jeffrey Dahmer fits both of those descriptions. However, I love graphic novels and the movie adaptation received great reviews. Jeffrey Dahmer is played by Ross Lynch – quite the transition from Teen Beach Movie! – so I decided to give it a shot. From the entertaining graphics to the interesting plotline, I ended up truly enjoying this book and finishing it in under a week. If you’re looking for a quick read that will both captivate you and send shivers down your spine, then this may be the book for you.
Now that you have a list of amazing books to read, all you need is the time to read them! The next time that you find yourself near the library, or are looking for a way to pass the time, pick up of these books – you won’t be disappointed!
COVER PHOTO: Justin Haber
