Books You Should Read Based on How You’re Feeling
Ever feel lost in a sea of emotions, unsure of where to turn? Studies show that reading can not only reduce stress and anxiety, but also boost happiness and empathy. Whether you’re yearning for comfort, seeking an escape, or just looking for a good laugh, here’s a guide to recommended reads based on how you’re feeling.
1. Seeking Comfort and Warmth:
In times of stress, loneliness, or uncertainty, turn to the world of fiction and its haven of heartwarming stories to lift your spirits. Narratives that explore themes such as love, friendship, and hope can provide you a much-needed escape, comfort, and reassurance.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
In Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet, a spirited and intelligent young woman, navigates the complexities of love and society in early 19th-century England. This is a timeless tale about the power of self-discovery that presents a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of love — one that overcomes societal pressures and personal flaws. The journey of growth coupled with a hopeful ending provides a heartwarming tale for readers who appreciate a well-developed love story with depth.
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Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum
In Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop, Hwang Bo-Reum crafts a heartwarming tale of healing and community. Burnt out from life, the story’s protagonist Yeongju finds solace in opening a bookstore as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The bookstore becomes a haven for quirky characters who forge friendships and support each other. This gentle story celebrates the power of reading, finding comfort in the written word, and the joy of connection.
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2. In Need of Inspiration
Have you ever felt like you’re running on fumes? When you’re feeling uninspired or stuck in a rut, motivational and uplifting reads can help ignite your creativity and drive.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
This book isn’t just another dry self-help manual. Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of the beloved memoir Eat, Pray, Love brings her signature warmth and wit to the topic of creativity. In Big Magic, she tackles the gremlins that hold you back — fear, self-doubt, and perfectionism — and offers practical strategies for overcoming them. Gilbert encourages readers to embrace the messy, unpredictable nature of the creative process and to find joy in the journey itself.
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The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Sometimes, a lack of inspiration stems from feeling overwhelmed by the past or anxious about the future. Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now offers a powerful antidote: present-moment awareness. This book guides you towards a practice of mindfulness, helping you become more grounded in the here and now. By quieting the constant chatter of the mind, you create space for fresh ideas to emerge. Beyond creativitiy and inspiration, The Power of Now is also about cultivating a sense of inner peace and clarity, which can benefit every aspect of your life.
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3. Craving Escapism
Life can be relentless — the daily grind, the never-ending to-do list, the constant barrage of news. Sometimes the best way to recharge is to leave reality behind. Fantasy novels offer captivating worlds, epic adventures, and fantastical creatures to whisk you away to a world beyond our own.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
This timeless masterpiece is a gateway to the world of high fantasy. Follow Bilbo Baggins, a peaceful hobbit thrust into an unexpected adventure. Alongside a band of dwarves led by the legendary Thorin Oakenshield, Bilbo embarks on a quest to reclaim a lost treasure guarded by a fearsome dragon. J.R.R. Tolkien’s meticulous world-building brings Middle-earth to life, with its rolling hills, hobbit holes, and majestic mountains. You’ll find yourself yearning for a second breakfast as you get lost in Tolkien’s enchanting tale.
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A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
Craving something a little more complex and gritty? Look no further than George R.R. Martin’s epic saga. Dive headfirst into a world of political intrigue, warring dynasties, and mythical creatures like dragons and white walkers. Characters you love can meet brutal ends, and the lines between good and evil are often blurred. But that’s precisely what makes Martin’s work so captivating. He crafts a world that feels real and dangerous, where every page turn is a nail-biting cliffhanger.
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4. Seeking Solitude and Reflection
Sometimes, the hustle and bustle of life can leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves. In these moments, a quiet space to turn inward, or a sanctuary for introspection and reflection will help. Try introspective reads that delve into the complexities of the human experience that will prompt you to ponder your own thoughts, feelings, and place in the world.
Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday argues that the biggest obstacle to success and fulfilment often isn’t external but internal: your ego. According to Holiday, an inflated ego can hinder your learning and growth in the early stages of your pursuits. In success, it can blind you to your weaknesses and set you up for future downfalls. And in failure, it can make you take setbacks personally and impede your ability to bounce back.
The book draws widely from philosophy, history, and literature to prompt you to reflect on the dangers of ego. It highlights the importance of humility, and resilience, and suggests that by taming your ego, you can achieve your goals more effectively and live a more fulfilling life.
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Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
Our society often glorifies extroversion, valuing the loud and the outgoing. However, Susan Cain’s insightful book, Quiet, challenges this perspective. Cain celebrates the power of introverts and their unique strengths, such as their depth of thought, capacity for observation, and creativity. By reading Quiet, you can gain a deeper understanding of the qualities of introverts. This exploration can be incredibly empowering, encouraging introverts to embrace their strengths and thrive in a world that often misunderstands them.
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5. Craving Laughter
Life can throw some serious curveballs and sometimes, the best remedy is to find the funny in it all. When you’re in need of a good laugh, reach for humorous and light-hearted reads that tickle your funny bone.
Pastoralia by George Saunders
Don’t be fooled by the idyllic-sounding title. George Saunders’ Pastoralia is a collection of satirical short stories that skewer the absurdities of modern life with dark humour. Saunders paints a hilariously nightmarish picture of corporate culture, consumerism, and our obsession with technology. Expect laugh-out-loud moments tinged with a touch of social commentary.
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Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
This witty novel follows the chaotic journey of the Fox family as they search for their eccentric and missing mother, Bernadette. Semple’s sharp wit and gift for creating quirky characters shine through in this laugh-out-loud tale. From a teenage daughter with a penchant for deadpan humor to a clueless yet endearing husband, the characters in Where’d You Go, Bernadette will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
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The next time you’re feeling a certain way, don’t underestimate the power of a well-chosen read. Delve into the pages, and let the written word transport you, comfort you, or make you laugh out loud. After all, a good book is more than just someone else’s story; it will help you think about yours.
