College, let’s face it, sucks sometimes. Not because the amount of money spent at the bar, or debt you collect six months’ post-graduation—but because of the amount of reading. Scholars advise students to study for minimum three hours per course, and that’s a shit ton.
But reading does not have to be all that boring. Reading is meant to be something one does for pleasure, not because its assigned. I remember curling up in my bed as a child on a Friday night and whizzing through the Magic Tree House and Nancy Drew collections, excited and willing to read. I still curl into bed on Friday nights, but only as the sun is coming up.
Books are an easy escape, they allow your mind to wander and enter another world. A world of happiness, romance, sadness. Grab your tissues, because these novels definitely take you on an emotional rollercoaster.
Me Before You/After You
A heartwarming novel about a young girl who struggles to discover herself. She is trapped under family obligations until she acquires an interesting job. She becomes an aid for a quadriplegic man and takes him on an unforgettable journey, not knowing his desired wish. It is so beautiful to watch a stranger fall in love with a man for who he considers his “worst.”
After You, the sequel, is just as compelling of a story, you watch Louisa Clark grow into a different person. You begin to see her in a new light and completely fall in love with her again.
A Dog’s Purpose
Do you remember how much love you had for your first dog? I do, her name was Lili. Lili was a supposed Jack Russell and I did everything with her—she was my road dog, literally. This novel stirs up all kinds of emotions and reminds you why you love your dog(s) as much as you do. The author depicts the bond between dog and owner and illustrates true love and championship. Get your tissues ready, because you will cry like a baby.
Eleanor and Park
High school. Something I do not think anyone misses, unless that was their peak.. Eleanor and Park live in two different worlds, but somehow managed to find each other. Although they’re both different, together they become themselves, more confident, worrying less about others. This novel depicts hardships of growing up, cliques we don’t miss and the first boyfriend we wish we all had. WARNING: once you pick up this book you might never put it down.
Fifty Shades Trilogy
I know what you’re thinking. You probably think I am into some BDSM type shit.. well I am not and this novel has more to it than just sex. Analyzing this novel at surface level, all the comes to mind is kinky sex; but if you get past that and read the ENTIRE trilogy you will gather a deeper meaning. Christian Grey, most eligible bachelor in Seattle, but just a side note, he’s fifty shades of fucked up. Anastasia Steele, the perfect angel to fix him? You tell me. Grey’s commitment to her and will to change for her is heartwarming. You watch Anastasia and Christian grow as a couple and Grey becomes a better man. You will feel happiness, excitement, and pain. This novel is full of emotional baggage and only the lucky stay on.
The Time Traveler’s Wife
I have read endless books that remind me of romance, but the "Time Traveler’s Wife" is what always comes to mind. Although it is fantasy based, you feel the true connections between Henry and Claire. Their love is exquisite, despite its complications. It is a clever twist to a modern love story, and I hope you can enjoy this novel as much as I did.
*Rachel McAdams killed it as Claire in the movie, FYI.
Wonder
Wonder is a novel I hold close to my heart. My best friend Maggie Klipp who is an elementary education teacher read this book with her fifth-grade class. She left it in my room after a weekend of visiting, so I decided to skim it before I sent it back. I immediately fell in love… I cried three times within the first half hour. August was born different, he looked different and saw the world in a different light. His story is noble, you can’t help but love him. Wonder makes you question your emotions. How do you cope? Are you truly yourself? This novel is a true treasure.
Harry Potter Series
SO, I am completely biased and a huge potterhead, so without I doubt I would tell you to read any Harry Potter novel immediately. I cannot really explain my obsession with HP, but I will say I own a wand (Harry’s first wand), collectors sock and a collectors lego set. Even if you think it is not “your thing,” trust me, it is.
Harry brings you through a magical journey of witchcraft and wizardry, goblins and elves named Dobby. You will feel excitement and sadness run through your veins at the same time. You will easily identify with characters and feel yourself in the novel. This is a must must must read.
So pick up a book, curl into your bed and get to reading!
