As I sit down in my freshly cleaned kitchen with my mug of hot tea to write this post, I realize that I’m “getting there” with the whole adulthood thing! To be honest, I’m not much of a reader and I’ll generally opt to spend a calming winter night with a glass (or two) of vino watching Netflix’s newest crime documentary vs. reading anything. In the interest of “trying new things” however, I’ve decided to switch up my evening routine and try something different on these minus twenty-something weekend evenings when it’s just too damn cold to leave the house.
If you’re not much of a reader (like myself), or even if you are – I think you’ll enjoy these feel good reads this winter. A caveat regarding my picks below: not too lengthy, light hearted, and (some) vulgar language throughout.
1. Do You Mind if I Cancel? / Author: Gary Janetti
Firstly, if you don’t follow the famously hilarious Gary Janetti on Instagram – go do that! Secondly, if you don’t find his social media account funny – this book isn’t for you. Nonetheless – this one is a laugh-out-loud, short but sweet read – if that’s your style this one’s for you. FULL DISCLOSURE this book is filled with profanity and raw detail but it’s really tough to put down. What’s best of all? The book is only 159 pages – you can get through it in two days easily. I loved this book so much I’m putting it back on my “read again” list for next year.
2. The Andy Cohen Diaries: A Deep Look at a Shallow Year / Author: Andy Cohen
If you love celebrity stories and some great self-deprecating humour – you’ll fall head over heels for this read. I cheated with this one and downloaded the audiobook as I felt it such a compelling read that I wanted to get through it and use Cohen’s candid humour as a segway to a happy workday. Listening to this to and from work everyday had me in tears more than once.
3. Next Level Basic: The Definitive Basic Bitch Handbook / Author: Stassi Schroeder
I truly relate to all women who don’t take themselves too seriously – I seek them out in a crowd. If this sounds familiar – you must add this New York Times Best Seller to your winter reading list. I personally loved the breakup stories that I could enjoy without a tissue box. You won’t find one bit of sorrow in this book folks – just a witty, entertaining blonde who loves life and offers to bring you along on her journey.
4. Open Book / Author: Jessica Simpson
Admittedly– her music isn’t my fav, but I grew up loving her reality tv show (as it was one of the first!) alongside Nick Lachey. This book wasn’t originally on my must-read list after seeing some of the interviews she gave after releasing the book, I had too many unanswered questions! She doesn’t hold back in this easy to read memoir; providing intimate details about her relationship and subsequent divorce from Nick Lachey, her relationship with her parents and substance struggles. It gave me a much greater respect for this mama who took struggle and turned it into success. If you are, or were a fan of the infamous Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica reality series (circa 2003) – this is a total feel good read.
5. Joyful / Author: Ingrid Fetell Lee
I took another departure from laugh-out-loud humour with this one but left with a really warm and fuzzy outlook after finishing this one. I enjoyed this book for a whole host of reasons. The author really focuses on finding hope and meaningful inspiration in your everyday surroundings. She focuses on the connection between physical surroundings and a positive mindset and explains just how okay it is for happiness to come from a tangible item. This book is wonderful for any time of the year but particularly if you’re struggling with your mood and need a real pick-me-up, this one’s for you. Once again, I would recommend the audiobook version if you’re looking for some inspiration to start your work day.
…and if these don’t suit your tastes, then there’s always Expedia to help you find solace somewhere warm! If you’re feeling the LENGTH of this winter already, I hear you – but I can tell you that laying in your comfy bed with a cup of warm tea and a good book is truly good for the soul…even if your partner is lying next to you scrolling Twitter. Happy reading friends! If you’ve read these and are looking for some more career oriented books click here to check out some books to help boost your performance.
