It happens to the best of us: The weekend before classes started, I had just finished my seventh book in two months. Upon closing the book, I found myself impatiently shuffling through my “to read” stack for my next read — except that was two and a half months ago. I never did crack open that next book. The most difficult part of reading is picking a good book and starting it. I’ve taken care of the first step for you. Here are five recommendations for books to read when you want to get back into reading. Take your pick, grab a big cup of coffee, find a cozy spot and get cracking.
“The Double Bind” by Chris Bohjalian
Psychological thrillers are my favorite. “The Double Bind” is slightly different, though. The main character has demons just like the rest of us, but she’s likable. I found myself feeling empathetic and rooting for her. Still, woven into the novel are snapshots of topics that are not addressed like they should be: sexual assault, mental illness and homelessness. Bohjalian does tie in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic “The Great Gatsby” to the plot story. (Trigger Warning: This novel contains chapters that depict sexual assault and/or violence.)
“Promise Me” by Harlan Coben
This mystery novel pulled me in from the beginning: A father’s best friend is the last to see his daughter after giving her a ride home from a party where everyone was drinking. His good intentions are soon forgotten when she goes missing and her classmate is found dead. If you enjoy “Promise Me,” you can rejoice because Netflix’s television show “Safe” is based on this Coben novel.
“Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom
If I were to make a list of books everyone should read, this memoir would be at the top. After graduating and making a life for himself, Albom drifted away from his college professor and mentor. They reconnect years later when the professor has just months to live. Full of wisdom and a whirlwind of emotions, this is a vital read for college students.
“Baseball Life Advice: Loving the Game That Saved Me” by Stacey May Fowles
When I think of the quote, “How can you not be romantic about baseball?” in “Moneyball” by Michael Lewis, I think of Fowles’ book. Her writing is passionate and candid as she beautifully delves into a sports fandom that is far more than balls and strikes. Her collection of short essays remind the reader why they love the game so much. “It’s Enough That We’re Here: Thoughts on Baseball and Recovery,” “It’s Okay to Have the Hots for Baseball Players: A Manifesto” and “The Magic of the No-Hitter” are just some of the topics you’ll explore in Fowles’ romantic baseball masterpiece.
“Yes Please” by Amy Poehler
Who doesn’t love Amy Poehler? From “Saturday Night Live” to “Parks and Recreation,” Poehler is a comedy staple. Her memoir includes humorous yet down to earth stories, pictures, advice and so much more. Once you finish reading, you’re definitely allowed to proudly pin – Pawnee Goddess style – a “be the Leslie Knope of whatever you do” badge on your shirt as a powerful reminder.
