As our quaran-time continues we have a lot more time on our hands to crack open a book and expand our minds, or at least dive into a juicy novel. Now is the perfect time to explore new books and escape into an imaginary word- filled world. I have compiled a recommended reading list for your reading pleasure. The list is varied including everything from a marshy nature-focused mystery novel to mindfulness teachings by a Buddhist Monk.
- “The Miracle of Mindfulness” by Thich Nhat Hanh-Written by a Vietnamese Buddhist monk and Zen master this book offers practical guidance and real life anecdotes to learn the skills of mindfulness. If you are interested in dipping your toe in the waters of meditation and mindfulness this is a great place to start!
- “Becoming” by Michelle Obama-Politics aside Michelle Obama is an interesting woman with an inspiring story that is captivating and easy to read in this memoir. The former first lady is most well known for her time spent in the White House, but she peels back the layers in this book making her even more relatable and intriguing.
- “Where the Crawdad’s Sing” by Delia Owens-If you are looking to get lost in a novel, look no farther click the link and buy this book now! The story is intriguing, mysterious and dark all mixed in with love and nature. You won’t want to put it down and with all your current at home “free” time you may not have to!
- “The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt-Yes this was a movie, but first it was a Pulitzer Prize winning novel and it is excellent! I can’t use enough adjectives to describe this work of fiction, but I will try. Riveting, page turning, captivating, etc., etc., etc. If you saw the movie then you know the basic plot and twists and turns, and I still urge you to read the book because the book blows the movie out of the water tenfold. If you saw the movie read the book, if you didn’t see the movie even better you are in for a real treat, read the book. During this quarantine you can dive into the mysterious world that encompasses the painting of The Goldfinch, bottom line here: read this book!
- “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle- Who is described as a contemporary spiritual leader, this book falls under the personal growth and spirituality categories and is an easy to follow guide to begin your journey into spiritual enlightenment. If you have ever been curious or are interested in digging a little deeper into living in the present moment, essentially the power of mindfulness, and releasing the ego this is a great place to start. This book was one of the pinnacle tools on my journey and I have re-read it many times to center myself and to tap into my higher consciousness when I know I am slipping.
