My All-Time Favorite Books

If I were to write an auto-biography about myself, it would have to have a section about how much I love reading. Although, as much as I love it, I so often neglect the practice. A friend recently asked me if I bought books or if I checked them out from the library. My answer was kind of funny (she laughed at least). I told her that I do a combination of both, but I find that I tend to read the books I buy sooner and faster than I do library books. I think it has something to do with the fact that I hate that the library puts a limit on when I need to read it by (obviously, I understand why they do it).

It’s kind of like the line in the Aristocats when the two dogs (Napoleon and Lafayette) hear the motorcycle and the sidekick dog (Lafayette) tries to sound the alarm, but the dog in charge (Napoleon) is just not having it, so he says: “I am the leader, I say when we charge. CHARGE!”. That is how I feel with the library – “I am the reader, I say when I’ll read. READ!”, it has nothing to do with my ability to read – it’s more about me wanting to be in charge. :)

So now that you know my beef with the library, let’s get to the good stuff: my favorite books! I have to admit, I have read so many books that I have a really hard time keeping track of them. However, I recently discovered this handy little app called Goodreads that allows you to track books you read and books you want to read. So if you are not already a member on Goodreads (it’s free), click here to create an account! You can even add me as a friend, and we can continue to share our favorite books! Below you will find that I have listed the book title, author, category, and who should read this or WSRT.

The Nightingale

Author: Kristin Hannah
Category: Historical Fiction

WSRT: If you enjoy long walks on the beach and…. JK! But really, if you enjoy a little bit of romance and adventure that is based on an event in history, this book is for you. You will feel a little bit of sadness, a lot of pride, some disappointment, and hope.

Talking As Fast As I Can

Author: Lauren Graham
Category: Auto-Biography

WSRT: If you are a Lauren Graham fan, then this is a must read. Or if you are someone that enjoys wittiness, charm, and belly laughing, you will definitely enjoy this book.

Cold Tangerines

Author: Shauna Niequist
Category: Christian Non-Fiction

WSRT: If you are looking for a book that will spark your imagination to find joy in the little things, go find this book! Shauna shares stories that are relatable and heartwarming. You will finish this book feeling like life is not so bad after all.

Where’d Ya Go Bernadette

Author: Maria Semple
Category: Funny Fiction, Contemporary

WSRT: If you are looking for a quick, catchy read that keeps you on your toes, this one is for you! I read this book at the beach in about 3 hours. It is very simple, but really entertaining. So, if you are a newfound bookworm or someone who struggles finishing a book, this might be a good one to try!

When Breath Becomes Air

Author: Paul Kalanthi
Category: Auto-Biography

WSRT: If you like feeling all the feels, look no more. This book is a true story about a doctor who…. Obviously I cannot finish that sentence, because I am do not want to spoil it for you. However, I will say I cried real tears by the end. It is eloquently written and incredibly inspiring.

Lie to Me

Author: J.T. Ellison
Category: Mystery, Thriller

WSRT: If you are in to dark and twisty (cue Meredith Grey), this is the book for you. I am a sucker for psychological thrillers, and this one totally kept my mind spinning. My biggest complaints with these kind of books is that there are a lot of loose ends; however, Ellison did an excellent job of tying everything together. Word from the wise: do not read this one at night.

Gone Girl

Author: Gillian Flynn
Category: Suspense, Thriller

WSRT: If you do not fright too easily and you like a good mystery, do not hesitate to pick this book up. I will warn you, there is a movie that was made based off of this book, but I am a firm believer in reading the book before you watch the movie. Gillian Flynn is a brilliant writer who will always keep you second guessing.