Happy Spring Break to all at Columbia! If your last week was packed with more midterms than there were days, congratulations on surviving and I hope you're treating yourself well. One thing I always loved and tend to neglect while in Morningside is reading, and I mean actually reading for myself, not forcing my vision to stay focused on whatever book I have at my desk at 1 AM. In packing for my spring break trip, I promised myself I'd actually get through a fun book this week, but it's hard to find books that travel well when your mind needs a break. So whether you're perusing the airport or hotel book shops, or surfing Amazon in your empty dorm room, check out this breakdown of some of my favorite travel (and staycation) reads.

Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling

On the off chance that you haven't read Mindy Kaling's first book, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns), yet then definitely pick that one up first. Honestly, both are so hilarious and easy to read that you could probably get through them in one trip. Why Not Me? is Kaling's second book of essays, and is even more hilarious than the first. This round features Kaling's reflections on running her own show (The Mindy Project on Hulu), evolving friendships, and life now that she's "made it." The perfect length for a domestic flight.

Nice Is Just a Place in France (How to Win at Basically Everything)

If you're spending your spring break with sun and sand, this book is a must. The first book by the hilarious comedy writers behind popular satire website betches.com is my ultimate beach read. While not serious, it blatantly pokes fun at how seriously we all tend to take ourselves. If you're unsure what to expect from a satirical self-help book, check out their website for a preview of what's in store, but take my word for it, this is the book to have under your beach umbrella.

The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

Maybe I'm biased towards historical fiction as a history major, but this book is fantastic. Whether you're looking for something to read for your transatlantic flight or just to make you feel like you're getting out of New York for a bit, this novel based on the experiences of Ernest Hemingway's first wife Hadley and the other members of the Lost Generation in 1920s Paris will captivate you. You don't have to be a fan, or even know anything about Hemingway, to appreciate this gorgeously written examination of love and ambition.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The first time I read this book, I couldn't put it down. The second and third time were no exception. While not exactly comedic, this book will captivate your attention in a very different when than the books on that syllabus you haven't touched. Love and intrigue and magic and a mysterious traveling circus that's only open at night, it's everything you could want in a vacation book.

All About Me by Phillip Keel

So this isn't exactly a typical book, but it's one of my must haves. I got it as a gift last Christmas and really enjoyed filling it out. It's basically a blank book with questions for you to answer about yourself, your likes, dislikes, experiences, and goals. It's a fun way to take a step back and think about what's gone on in your life so far and where you want to go once your back from your week off.

That CC Reading Due Monday

We both know you haven't even touched the book yet. Maybe save it for the plane ride home.