Clap When You Land, Elizabeth Acevedo
This Goodreads Choice Award winner has actually been in my library for awhile now. And from the sound of it, it might be a tearjerker. Author, Elizabeth Acevedo dives into themes of grief, love, secrets, and the unexpected convergence of two paths making it one of my most anticipated fiction reads of the year.
I Thought It Was Just Me, Brené Brown
Only recently (through short clips and annotations) have I been introduced to the brilliance of Dr. Brené Brown. Coming across her TedTalk on vulnerability felt like a privilege in itself. Additionally, the concept of shame and how it carries us through generations has become increasingly fascinating to me so, I can’t wait to cozy up with this book. I Thought It Was Just Me explores the various manifestations of shame, such as addiction, perfectionism, fear, and blame, discovered in her 6-year study on its effects on women. Through personal narratives and real-life examples, Brown outlines an empowering approach that transforms shame into courage, compassion, and connection, offering a crucial dialogue of hope for those battling feelings of inadequacy and encouraging readers to embrace their infinite possibilities.
The Psychology of Money
Morgan Housel promises insightful revelations in his book, “The Psychology of Money,” challenging the conventional notion that financial success is purely about knowledge. Through 19 short stories, he explores the intricacies of human behavior, providing a unique perspective on how personal history, emotions, and individual perspectives influence financial decision-making beyond traditional mathematical approaches.
All I’ve Wanted, All I’ve Needed, A.E. Valdez
I’m always in search of healthy, Black love stories to add to my library. And this one comes highly recommended. With an average rating of 4.5/5 on Goodreads, author, A.E. Valdez takes this contemporary romance to explore Harlow’s yearning for authenticity beyond the curated life she always thought she wanted.
In Every Mirror She’s Black, Lola Akinmade Åkerström
Three very different black women woven together just to find themselves in each other? I’m here for it! In Every Mirror She’s Black explores the interconnected lives of three Black women in Sweden, linked to one influential white man. Kemi tackles a PR crisis. Brittany-Rae becomes the object of obsession. And refugee Muna seeks connection. Lola Akinmade Åkerström’s debut novel delves into important social issues through the perspectives of these dynamic women.
Everything I Know About Love, Dolly Alderton
This title has appeared on every “Books Every 20-Something Woman Should Read” list I’ve come across. Dolly Alderton’s bestselling memoir, “Everything I Know About Love,” navigates the trials of adulthood with wit, humor, and insight. Through personal stories and satirical observations, Alderton reflects on love, friendships, bad dates, and the importance of self-worth. This unforgettable debut resonates with the challenges of early adulthood, offering a relatable and humorous exploration of life’s uncertainties.
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry, Fredrik Backman
I found this read on Amazon only to realize I’d already saved it on Pinterest years ago. That means it’s meant to be. In My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry, seven-year-old Elsa embarks on an adventure following her grandmother’s death. Through a series of letters, Elsa discovers a world of unique characters who unravel the truth about life, death, and the right to be different. Fredrik Backman weaves a heartwarming tale with the same humor and compassion as his bestselling debut, A Man Called Ove.
A Little Life, Hanya Yanagihara
If you’re on BookTok, this cover has probably been all over your feed. It’s been on my reading list for months but I just can’t pull myself to crack it open till I’m ready for a good cry. Hanya Yanagihara tells the story of four friends navigating ambition in New York. Facing challenges of addiction and success, the core struggle emerges in Jude who is haunted by a traumatic past that threatens to define his life forever.
Between Two Kingdoms, Suleika Jaouad
Current obsession: Jon Batiste! I’ve always enjoyed his music, but after his Netflix special, American Symphony, I’m officially a fan. And while the special was meant to highlight his journey to Carnegie Hall, it was the love story of him and his beautifully artistic and fellow feeler wife, Suleika Jaouad, that captivated my attention. Between Two Kingdoms is a poignant memoir chronicling Suleika’s journey from leukemia diagnosis to remission. Followed by a transformative 100-day road trip across the country, her exploration of survival goes beyond just physical recovery. Suleika delves into the profound challenges of reentering life and the tender process of beginning anew.
