Summer is fast approaching, meaning no more homework, projects, assignments and minimal stress compared to the school year. With so much free time, it’s nice to take a break from the usual Netflix binges and relax with a book that isn’t a mandatory read. Something you only have to write about or discuss if you actually want to. Especially without the looming work associated to a book, it’s fun to read something that makes you think and maybe even view the world a little differently. While most of these books are by no means a light summer read, they deliver a powerful message while still being worth the read. So, whether it’s while you’re curled up in your room or lounging by a beach, here’s six books you’ll actually enjoy reading:

1. Yes Please- Amy Poehler

A lighter read with an empowering message. Poehler recounts her life in a way that makes you feel okay with being where you’re at- as long as you’re working like crazy to get to where you want to be. She is living proof that good things come, sometimes it takes some patience.

2. Invisible Monsters- Chuck Palahniuk

This book tackles many issues: love, beauty, identity, acceptance-all in an entertaining way that keeps you turning the pages. While, albeit, slightly disturbing at times, the message of this book is powerful.

“I wanted to give up the idea I had any control. Shake things up. To be saved by the chaos. To see if I could cope, I wanted to force myself to grow again. To explode my comfort zone”

3. 13 Reasons Why- Jay Asher

Take a break from binge watching this new series on Netflix and read the powerful story. It’s so easy to forget that every move we make has a ripple effect. It’s important to be kind and it’s important to care.

“No one knows for certain how much impact we have on the lives of other people. Oftentimes, we have no clue. Yet we push it just the same.”

4. The Kite Runner- Khaled Hosseini

While sometimes difficult to read, this story is worth it. Although most of us are fortunate enough to not grow up in circumstances such as this book describes, it’s important to be aware of this reality. Everyone can relate to struggling with their past and the pain of an almost; Hosseini also eloquently reminds us of selflessness and loyalty- a thousand times over.

5. Milk & Honey- Rupi Kaur

Don’t feel like reading a full novel right now? Kaur empowers while pulling on the heart strings of her readers with a beautiful story told through the poetry she has twined together.

6. An Abundance of Katherines- John Green

Is any must-read book list complete without John Green? While this book is not his most known work compared to the wild popularity of his other bestsellers, it is well worth the read. An account of love and loss, but mostly self acceptance, Green takes you on an entertaining journey of self discovery.

"What's the point of being alive if you don't at least try to do something remarkable?"