I truly believe in the power of bibliotherapy: using books to make our lives better.
Here’s a list of books that will bring a bit of comfort and joy to your reading. Read them when you need a life, a bit of inspiration or just want to feel good for no reason at all.
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The Reading List: A Novel by Sara Nisha Adams
The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams took every emotional reserve I had. It was exquisite. The book follows multiple characters as they sort through their grief, pain and loneliness independently, yet are ultimately connected together through an unexpected list of books. A list that simply says ‘Just in case you need it’ with a carefully curated selection of eight books. These books were just what each character needed on their particular journey to heal, to grow or to broaden their ideas of the world. As someone who truly believes in the power of books and bibliotherapy, I was captivated by these stories. If you love books and believe in the power of reading or if you still need to learn how to love books and the power of reading, The Reading List is for you. I’ll be returning to this book often and am already working on a reading list of my own to leave for those who might need it. This book has touched my heart in so many ways
The Switch by: Beth O'Leary
The Switch by Beth O’Leary was a book club selection for Get Lit(erate). I saw it on a few book lists and wanted something light-hearted and fun, but also could teach me a thing or two about fresh starts. This book certainly fits the bill. I adored it. O’Leary introduces us to Eileen and Leena, a grieving grandmother and granddaughter who decide to switch places for two months to bring a bit of adventure and a whole lot of clarity to their lives. Ultimately, each learns to push past their comfort zone, embrace who they are, find their true gifts and then believe in themselves enough to reach for them. It was a delightful book and I’m sad to see Eileen and Leena go as I turn the last page. I need a sequel.
A Kind of Paradise Hardcover by: Amy Rebecca Tan
This was the ultimate middle grade comfort book. In it, we meet Jamie, a middle schooler who made an unfortunate choice that landed her in the library as a volunteer for the entire summer. Initially dreading the experience and even fantasizing the library might close so she could have her summer back, Jamie ultimately changes her tune as she develops relationships with the library staff and comes to see the patrons in a new light. And as she joins the fight to save the library, she ultimately finds a new version of herself in the process. This heart-warming, huggable book reminds us we can always reinvent ourselves and find a new path with patience, friendship and acceptance of all versions of ourselves.
