We’ve all had those moments where the world seems too big and we can’t overcome it alone. When that happens I turn to books to soothe me and remind me the world is not as large as it seems and my experiences and fears are not unique to me. Whether it’s fiction or not, I take refuge in reading about the lives of people different from me who feel the same things. Sometimes all it takes is reading about someone else’s life to realize my problems are not the end of the world. Here are some books to give you good feelings.
The Truth about Forever – Sarah Dessen
This is one of my favorite books ever and the ultimate comfort reading material. Macy’s story is hard and full of heartbreak and finding herself and it’s worth the read. Or the re-read.
Anthem – Ayn Rand
Anthem In Anthem people walk around without making any decisions for themselves. They have no name or independence. They don’t even have a sense of self. Reading this book reminds me just how much of my life is in my hands and that I can change it, but it won’t be easy.
Luckiest Girl Alive – Jessica Knoll
The amount of pain the protagonist goes through is unthinkable, but she is so real and relatable about it all. Also, the author recently came out about the truth behind the fiction, and it’s inspiring as well.
Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock – Matthew Quick
Forgive Me, Leonard PeacockThis book is a unique look inside the mind of a young boy battling depression and homicidal tendencies. It’s a little dark through most of the book, but it’s a great read about impossible choices.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower – Stephen Chobsky
The Perks of Being a WallflowerThis is the quintessential book for outsiders and it perfectly captures that feeling of not knowing where you fit. I think we can all agree that high school is a hell hole, and it’s nice to know others have felt out pain.
The Last Lecture – Randy Pausch
Randy Pausch was asked to give a last lecture at Carnegie Mellon, he knew it was his last, he had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. His lecture–”Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”–wasn’t about dying. It was about overcoming obstacles, enabling others dreams, and of seizing every moment. It was about living, and so is the book.
The Night Circus – Erin Morgenstern
The Night CircusSometimes we all need a little magic. The Night Circus will definitely bring some magic back into your life and make you remember the things that are important, love and family with a little adventure thrown in.
Matilda – Ronald Dahl
We’re book nerds and outsiders. We basically ARE Matilda. She’s out anthem and we love her. Plus re-reading how she takes down Miss Trunchbull is the best way to improve my mood. Miss Honey is the best.
