There is no better time than winter to cuddle up in a nice warm blanket, drink some hot chocolate, and read a good book cover to cover. It's important to relax over winter break so that you can start the next semester rejuvenated. While watching all seven seasons of "Parks and Rec" would be great, reading a good book would be even better. With so many books available, it can be hard to narrow down the options. Here are five amazing books that you should read over winter break.

1. "milk and honey" by Rupi Kaur

A poetry book about hurting, love, heartbreak and healing that blends beautiful drawings with poems. This is by far my favorite book of all time. The poetry is vivid, graphic at times, and emotionally impactful. I have lost myself in this book over the past few months numerous times; each time I find a different aspect I love. A truly inspiring work, and a short read, even with time to analyze each poem. However, forewarning, this book is very sexually explicit. 10/10 and a must-read.

Suggested for: Poetry junkies, people dealing with heartbreak and everyone else.

Favorite Poem:

"if i knew what

safety looked like

i would have spent

less time falling into

arms that were not"

2. "I'll Give You The Sun" by Jandy Nelson

A book written from two perspectives of teen twins. Jandy Nelson takes you throughout a three year span of their relationship, and packs it full of betrayal, heartbreak and emotional turns. This book will hook you from the start with its unique formatting and story. This book will make the snowy days feel as warm as a summer day. It's a wonderful choice for teens and adults. I loved this book from start to finish. 8.5/10 and definitely worth the read.

Suggested for: People with siblings, art lovers and teens.

Favorite Quote: "It's never occurred to me that the stars are still up there shining even in the daytime when we can't see them."

3 . "The Beginning of Everything" by Robyn Schneider

This book is truly roller coaster, much like the cover suggests. Nothing can be assumed while reading it, as there are many very unpredictable twists and turns. This book will have you laughing, crying, smiling and clenching your fist asking why you even started it. It tells the story of a teenage boy who seems to have a perfectly normal life. He is popular, athletic and smart...until he shatters his leg. I read this book in a day, because I was so interested in what was going to happen next. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. 8.5/10 and a heck of a good read.

Suggested for: People who have ever experienced tragedy, people who love a good young adult book, and rom-com lovers.

Favorite Quote: "I pictured her tragically; it never once occurred to me to picture her as the tragedy.”

4. "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Steven Chbosky

This book is incredible. It's written in letters to a unidentified person and features Charlie, a freshman in high school, who befriends a group of seniors. The story takes you through his freshman year, and along the emotional journey of his life. This is a go-to book if you need a good cry; there are so many emotions exuding from it. I am very biased, however, as I am the personification of this book. Regardless, it is worth the read. 10/10 and a must-read.

Suggested for: People who struggle with mental illness, high schoolers or college students and lovers of coming of age stories.

Favorite Quote: “So, this is my life. And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad and I'm still trying to figure out how that could be.”

5. "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

When Dante and Aristotle meet at a swimming pool, these two boys from different backgrounds become best friends. Dante shares his knowledge and teaches Aristotle to swim. As they find out secrets about themselves and about family, they continue to grow closer. The book focuses on them finding themselves and each other. This book received the stonewall book award for it's beautiful writing, and the inclusion of LGBT characters. This was the book I was looking for in my teenage years--one about finding, accepting and loving yourself for who you are. 9/10 and a beautiful story for all.

Suggested for: LGBT youth, rom-com lovers, and those who want to discover the secrets of the universe.

Favorite Quote: “Another secret of the universe: Sometimes pain was like a storm that came out of nowhere. The clearest summer could end in a downpour. Could end in lightning and thunder."

While this list includes a lot of young adult novels, these books really can be read by anyone. Keep your brain stimulated over winter break, with one, two, or even all five of these books. You won't be disappointed.