I love to read and am always happy to recommend books to anyone that asks me. I think books (or Barnes & Noble gift cards) are great gifts for holidays, birthdays, days that end in ‘y’… So even though you didn’t ask, I’m still gonna share. In no particular order, here are a few of my favorite books (and one sassy deck of cards). I am sure there is one on this list that is perfect for you!
Girl Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be by Rachel Hollis An honest and funny book addressing myths that hold us back. Rachel- a wife, mother, and CEO- tells her story of feeling overwhelmed and questioning herself as she navigates her different life roles. Terrific book if you want a quick read with an empowering message. Perfect for any woman in your life.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl Viktor Frankl’s memoir of surviving four different labor camps, including Auschwitz, in the 1940’s while his parents, brother and pregnant wife did not survive. I cannot think of another book that has made me feel so grateful for the life I have. At the same time, this is an inspiring story of how we can cope, find meaning and move forward in our lives, even when we are suffering. This book belongs in everyone’s home library.
The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connection, and Courage by Brene Brown This is an audiobook that Brene Brown says encompasses all her work and books. If we do not allow ourselves to be vulnerable, (which takes courage btw), we miss out on experiences that give our life purpose and meaning. So good!
Rock Steady: Brilliant Advice From My Bipolar Life by Ellen Forney This cartoonist author provides information, tips, and tools in a graphic survival guide for anyone who has bipolar disorder. Funny as well as practical, this book is useful to anyone with a mood disorder.
I Am…. A Box of Goodness by Susan Verde, Peter H. Reynolds Oh boy do I love these books! The simple message and colorful artwork of each book makes me feel happy when I read them. This wellness series, includes a book about empathy (I Am Human), mindfulness (I Am Peace), and the power of transformation (I Am Yoga). I think everyone- young, old, or in between- will enjoy these books.
Paint Your Way Out of a Corner: The Art of Getting Unstuck by Barbara Diane Barry The only thing better than reading is painting- IMO. Think back to when you were a kid and it didn’t matter what you painted, it just felt good to do it…. don’t you want to have that kind of fun again? Oh, and guess what? Painting is great for your brain!
Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain by Daniel J. Siegel, MD Um, what can I say that the title didn’t? Learn more about those brains in our 12-24 year olds. Turns out teens don’t make us crazy on purpose!
The Whole Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind by Daniel J. Siegel, MD, Tina Payne Bryson What happens when a doctor with new brain science meets a parenting expert? You get schooled on how to enrich a child’s brain development so that they are calmer and happier. Hello! Why aren’t you running to the bookstore right now?
Rewire Your Anxious Brain: How to Use the Neuroscience of Fear to End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry by Catherine M. Pittman, Elizabeth M. Karle Holy cow, this is such a great book for anyone with anxiety! About 90% of the individuals I loan my book to end up getting their own copy. Don’t let the word ‘neuroscience’ scare you; this book is easy to read, understand, and it is soooo interesting. I promise you will lend this book to your anxious loved ones after you are done reading it!
The Psychopath Test: A Journey Through the Madness Industry by Jon Ronson Don’t get fooled by the title, this book is interesting as all heck! A true story of an investigation into a possible hoax on the world’s top neurologists. The author also meets with an inmate diagnosed as a psychopath at a criminally insane asylum. Is he really a psychopath? How can you tell? And what if you are wrong?
Rebel Deck- The Oracle with Attitude I find Oracle cards to be interesting because they make me think about situations differently. When I use this deck with people, we always have a good laugh at how accurate the cards are (though not for those of you who don’t like cussing). I know you know someone that will appreciate this @#$*& deck!
I hope you check these out! If you are looking for more literary recommendations, contact me– I would love to share them with you. And don’t forget to let me know how you like these books. Happy reading!
Love yourself, you deserve it!
