Even though I took a break from the blog during the holidays, I didn’t get as much of a break from life as I hoped I would! I had visions of lots of pajama time, reading, relaxing, and sleeping in. I did get to do some of that, but I also spent a lot of time doing things with friends and family. It’s certainly not something that I’m complaining about, but just different that I had imagined it!
Luckily, I did fit in some relaxation time, and managed to do some reading. It’s really hard for me to read for fun during the semester (thought it’s something that I’m trying to get better at). I love reading, but I get sucked into books really quickly, and don’t want to put them down, which leads to hours going by without me really realizing. This meant that my time without plans was perfect for reading, because I could spend as much time as I wanted!
I read on my iPad, because it’s so much easier for me than having to hold a paper book (especially the bigger, heavier ones). This means I buy most of my books online – I use the Nook app, which is through Barnes & Noble – and it can get dangerous quickly for my bank account, because so many books look good. I really need to figure out how to borrow e-books through the library… and then work on my patience, too, so that I wait if they’re not instantly available.
I’ve shared a lot of TV shows and movies here, but not as many books, so I wanted to tip the balance and share my recent reads.
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
This books was incredible. I was drawn in basically from the very first page – the characters are so complex and well-written, and I couldn’t put the book down. I highly recommend it and cannot wait to read more of Ng’s books.
The Royal We by Jessica Morgan and Heather Cocks
I have actually already read this one, so it was a re-read for me, but I wanted something fun and this seemed appropriate in honor of Meghan Markle’s engagement to Prince Harry. It’s about an American who gets engages to the Prince of England, and it’s such a cute fictional love story! The authors also write one of my favorite blogs, Go Fug Yourself – check out both the book and their site!
Who Thought This Was a Good Idea? by Alyssa Mastromonaco
I had been meaning to read this one for a while, and I’m so glad I finally made the time. Mastromonaco worked in the White House during the Obama administration, and shared stories about how she got there, what it was like working in the White House, what life was like after she left. It wasn’t just a memoir, though – it was filled with helpful advice, including a packing list that I am definitely going to start using whenever I travel.
Uncommon Type: Some Stories by Tom Hanks
Did you know Tom Hanks wrote a book of short stories? I didn’t until I came across this book on Barnes & Noble’s website, and knew I had to give it a try. I haven’t finished all of the stories yet – I’m reading one of two of them in between the other books I’ve been reading – and they’ve all been interesting and different. I love hearing Tom Hanks’ voice in my head while reading them, too!
Have you read anything good lately? I’d love to hear if you did!