A good book recommendation list is perfect anytime of the year, but as the cooler weather starts to creep in it means its definitely time to curl up with some captivating books to read and a cozy blanket. From thriller, to personal growth, to adventure, this list has something for almost everyone.
What’s Your Favorite Way to Read?
I love the feeling of a book in my hand. Its my favorite way to read. I also like to make notes in the margins sometimes, or underline something profound or particularly thoughtful. When the digital readers came out I got a kindle. It’s sleek and doesn’t cause me to take up a ton of room on my already overflowing book shelves. Now, as a busy mom I tend to listen to more books rather than actually read them. Is is just the stage I’m at in my life and might be the only way I get to “read”. It’s all about convenience. Whichever way you choose, grab, or download, one of these recommended books to read and get lost in a story , inspired by a memoir, or learn though someone’s expert advice. And don’t forget that cozy blanket.
P.S. You can find the full summery of each book by clicking the links. I have included a shortened version to spark your interest 😉
Books to Read: Add Them all to Your Bucket List
On Fire, by John O’Leary
An incredible and inspiring read from author John O’Leary who survived a devastating house fire. He outlines a 7-step plan for living life to the fullest.
Made for This by Jennie Allen
A God-centered book to lead woman to their life purpose. Divided into 40 days it is a follow up to Allen’s Books Restless and Anything.
Mastering Your Mean Girl by Melissa Ambrosini
This book is a guide to silencing your self limiting beliefs and propelling yourself into action to create the life you’ve always wanted. “Inspiring and upbeat” to push you out of fear and doubt and into who you are meant to be.
Until I Say Goodbye by Susan Spencer-Wendel
An inspiring memoir about the author’s diagnosis of ALS and living a life of joy as she accepted the inevitable occurrence of death. Containing heart-warming stories full of courage and love, as she makes the most of the time she has left on earth.
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
This book is an eye-witness account of the 1996 Mt. Everest disaster that claimed the lives of five people. Detailed and devastating it is an adventure that leaves a lasting impact.
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
A compelling New York Times best selling novel that tells a story of a woman who receives a devastating diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s. From the author who holds a Ph. D in neuroscience from Harvard it is an inspiring and heartbreaking account of a character’s journey through a disease.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
A mystery novel in which an autistic 15 year-old boy sets out to investigate the suspicious death of his neighbor’s dog, but discovers an unexpected truth.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
A classic masterpiece about the quest of a Shepard boy who sets out to find riches but ends up discovering so much more.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
A book for every avid reader, this classic is set in Nazi Germany and follows the tale of a girl who shares her love of reading with others in one of the darkest times in world history.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
A astonishing and heartbreaking story of friendship and power set in the chaotic and turmoil ridden land of Afghanistan.
You by Caroline Kepnes
A modern day thriller that hypnotizes and pulls you in to the addictive suspense and terrifying sense of vulnerability.
Beneath the Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
A stirring story of action, love, war and a teenage boy’s attempt to thwart the Nazi’s as he is thrust into danger. In the name of passion, his heroism makes an epic wartime tale. Based on a true story and soon to be a feature film.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A gripping mystery with a girl, once isolated in nature, in the center of it. There is a coming-of-age element as she exposes herself to the greater world while facing her desire to be loved.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A circus with a behind the scenes magicians duel? What more could you ask for in a captivating book. Yet, this one is also part love story that could cost people their lives.
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
A family’s struggle turned wilderness adventure when a POW spontaneously moves his family to Alaska. A story of love and survival in a beautiful yet dangerous land.
Educated by Tara Westover
A beautiful memoir of a young girl who leaves her family to pursue her desire for education. The further she travels the more she wonders if she can find her way home.
Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
A timeless story of love and the survival of two sisters, each on their own path in Nazi occupied France. A rare glimpse into the female heroism of wartime.
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
An unforgettable memoir of a dysfunctional family and their love for one another, despite the differences between the eclectic and irresponsible parents and the children who fight their way to a better life.
The Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman
A spiritual saga and story of self discovery. It is part autobiography and part imagination as the author takes the reader through an odyssey of discovery and the way of the peaceful warrior.
Summer of ‘69 by Erin Hilderbrand
This historical novel chronicles the times of a changing country and a family influenced by the drama of an era. Once united in summer time, the family has spread out, leaving the youngest sibling to experience Nantucket and unearth family secrets.
Small Great Things by Jodi Piccoult
The story of a nurse who makes the choice to to ignore a patients request in an attempt to save their baby’s life, but winds up being trapped in a criminal case. A sensational telling that tackles the difficult topics of race, prejudice, and justice.
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
A luxury cruise turned frightful mystery when the main character witnesses a woman being thrown over board. With no proof and no one reported missing this story is full of plot twists and secrets to be revealed.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
A romantic comedy that follows a couple from America to Singapore as a boyfriend takes his girlfriend to his homeland to meet his family. What he failed to tell her is that they are one of the richest families in the country and he may very well be the most eligible bachelor.
Love Warrior by Glennon Doyle
An inspiring account of strength and bravery through an intensely painful and difficult time in the writer’s life. After her marriage is rocked by infidelity her choices become an example of forgiveness and the determination to fight to be better.
Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist
In this collection of essays the author accounts how she transformed her frantic, busy, and demanding life to one of enjoyment, peace, and presence. She lays out the details for her readers to experience the same life changing revelation and to simplify the craziness and expectations of the everyday.
The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann
A fresh approach to business and the idea that success is found in giving rather than taking. The authors give their readers a clear formula of how to achieve this modern take on prosperity.
Fierce Faith by Alli Worthington
Employing biblical wisdom and practical approaches the author teaches her readers how to over come fear, escape worry, and work through anxiety. It is an encouraging read full of advice to reconnect you to your faith and fiercely overcome the stresses of daily life.
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
Set in the gold rush era of California this Faith based novel tells the story of God’s unconditional love. That love is displayed when a man chooses to marry a spiteful prostitute who has been hardened by the harsh world. Slowly but surely her heart softens, but can she overcome the powerful emotions that accompany a complete transformation such as this.
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Based on a true scandal this can’t-put-down novel connects two different families from two different eras. The main character begins to unearth secrets that will either bring devastation or redemption.
Happy Reading
How many books to read did you pick out for your bucket list? I know mine is full!
You might also like this post for more books to read:
LOVE Francine Rivers! That book is a great one! I’ve have to check out some others the list!
Love Kristin Hannah, couldn’t get through Crawdads, and Educated is on my list. Thanks for the great options!