I've recently rediscovered my love for reading. Over the summer I had loads of free time so I bought myself a couple of new books. And I realised just how good reading can be. Have you ever read a book that kept you at night? Your eyes would literally be closing but you just had to know what was going to happen next? Most of us have read books that have had a lasting effect on our lives.
But for those of you that haven't - or that would love to find a new book like that - I've decided to dedicate this post to book recommendations. However, we all have different tastes and opinions. So I decided to ask a few friends and my brother for some books that they would recommend to anyone so as to give you the most diverse list possible. To make things a little clearer, I've also decided to divide these titles between fiction and non-fiction novels. Hope you enjoy any books you do choose to try!
Fiction
Me Before You, by Jojo Moyes
The trilogy, I should say. This book series is probably one of my favourites of all time. You get all the feels, you laugh to yourself and you won't get enough. When I finished the first book, I immediately had to get the sequel. And when I heard about the 3rd book coming out, I couldn't wait to buy it. The style of writing is amazing and you will fall in love with the characters.
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins
Another trilogy that is definitely worth reading. If you haven't already read these books, you've probably seen the movies. People always say the book is better than the movie, and it's very much the case for these. Let me tell you though, I genuinely believe that these are the best-written books I have ever read in my life. Suzanne Collins' writing style is impeccable and if you don't actually know the story, I'm sure you'll enjoy it!
The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald
It's a classic. And not the kind that's not actually entertaining for anyone. This one is really good. So go read it.
Of Mice and Men, by John Steinbeck
Another classic. You might have heard of Steinbeck's most famous novel: Grapes of Wrath. But Of Mice and Men is the book I'm recommending today. Took me a while to get into it at first, but when I finished it, I couldn't believe how much I loved it. It's not the easiest read but I think that's just how it is with every classic that's slightly older. Once you get used to the writing style, it'll be a breeze.
The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak
I have to admit, I've never read this book. But it's on my list of books to read! I've only heard positive things about this historical novel set during World War II and a few people recommended it to me.
Non-Fiction
The F Word, by Lily Pebbles
If you have read my post about friendships in your 20s, you won't be surprised to find this book on my list. Although a quick disclaimer would be that this book is probably more suited for gals. It explores the different female friendships we encounter in our lives. Overall, it's a sweet, light-hearted read that will make you grin and think about your besties. But it will make you think too, about toxic friendships for example. Oh, and if you get the Hodder edition like me, it makes a beautiful coffee table book!
50 Ways to Help the Planet, by Siân Berry
A recent book I bought that I've only had a chance to flick through but that I know is worth reading. If you've read my post about being more sustainable or if you're wanting to find more ways to help the environment, this book is for you! It seems easy to read, has cute drawings in it and is for a good cause!
The Hidden Power of F*cking Up, by The Try Guys
You've probably seen their videos or you have at least heard of them. These 4 guys are a YouTube sensation and they've written a great book about how sometimes, reaching your goal requires to mess up first. What I've read so far has made me feel better about my failures. Because it's not about learning not to make mistakes, it's about learning from your mistakes!
Everything I Know About Love, by Dolly Alderton
Another book I haven't read but that was strongly recommended by one of my friends. In her words, it's "about all the different types of love you'll navigate through life!" I will definitely try and borrow it!
Fully Functioning Human (Almost), by Melanie Murphy
Melanie Murphy is an amazing Irish YouTuber. She very much feels like an older sister with the kind of helpful videos she makes that answers questions any girl wish she could ask. I've heard a lot about her book and my flatmate was the one who suggested I read it. As I am typing this, I can see the book sitting in the bookshelf, waiting for me to finally start. It's also on my list of books to read!
Binge, by Tyler Oakley
You probably heard of this YouTuber/activist. He has been an ambassador for the LGBTQ+ community for years now and also supports the Trevor Project - a helpline for anyone LGBTQ+ teens and adults. He wrote this book a couple of years back and it is hilarious. There are some stories from that book I still remember from time to time and they still make me laugh. It's fun, light-hearted and will have you howling.
Born a Crime, by Trevor Noah
This autobiography by the young South African comedian is about growing up as an "illegal" child during the apartheid - black and white people were not allowed to have kids together at the time. As one of my friends said, it's "really eye-opening".
How To Be a Woman, by Caitlin Moran
Another book my flatmate recommended to me is this witty book. From what I have read, it's a very entertaining, relatable book but that also teaches young women about feminism. But it is done in a way that you won't even realise it. If you, as my flatmate put it, "love learning through other people's experiences", this is a book for you!
You Are a Badass, by Jen Sincero
I had to mention this book. If you've read my post about self-help books and podcasts, you might remember this one. I had to put it last because it is definitely the most meaningful for me. This book has helped me get through some tough times and enabled me to grow as a person. Without this book, I probably never would have gotten to a point in my life where I would be able to put myself out there like I am doing with this blog. So if you are looking for a book that will help you improve your life and yourself, look no further. It's funny, relatable but also eye-opening. I literally felt the need to keep a journal alongside reading this because I had so many thoughts! Not that you have to do that, all I'm trying to say is that this book will make you think - a lot.
So here it is, my book recommendations brought to you by me and some of my friends. I hope you find something for you and that you'll enjoy whatever you choose to read. Reading is great and in today's world is often overshadowed by movies and TV series. So if you can, try to read a little every now and then: on the bus or train, during your lunch break or before bed for example. Anyway, if you've read this far, thank you so much! I hope you have a lovely week and I will see you next Sunday!
Yours truly,