I’ve always been a big fan of reading. As a child it felt like a fun way to learn new about new topics, and as an adult it’s a really genius way to pull myself away from the daily minutia. And, it gives Zack and I something interesting to talk about besides the kids and moving and jobs and bills ;)
Reading doesn’t need to be something you indulge in for hours, taking even 20 minutes can be enough time to “reset” a stresser, learn something new, or ignite inspiration.
Right now I’m in a season where finishing a book takes me longer than normal. And that’s totally OK! I’m in no rush; my only goal is I don’t take too long in between turning pages that I forget what I’m reading about — ha!
Here is a little compilation of what’s NEW on my bookshelf:
+ Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
+ The Fringe Hours by Jessica Turner (a favorite for an entire year now)
+ Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult
+ The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson
+ Breaking Busy by Alli Worthington
+ The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin
And here’s a list of books I’ve already read, in case you need something new on your shelf.
I really like to merge Zack and my books with the kids books. Organizing books by type (whatever makes the most sense for you personally) has helped me in big ways when searching for a title, plus it helps encourage deeper conversation with guests since “like” categories are grouped together.
Personally, I’m not picky about the kids reaching what is on our bookshelf. I put books within their reach that I want them to crab. And if they accidentally rip a page or tear a flap, oh well! We’d rather they use their books than they sit on the bookshelf in brand new condition.
Want even more book inspiration? Here’s why you should start a book club.
PS. our top 12 favorite children’s books :)
I used to be a HUGE reader, and I’ve barely read anything in years! I’ve made a goal to start reading more this year, & so far I’ve started a reading list & gotten no further than that! :-D Good for you, for making time to read! :-)
Yes! If they can’t reach them, they won’t read them! Anything that encourages reading!
Awesome list, thanks for the inspiration!! I actually listed to the Fringe Hours on Audible when I was working :) I want the “journal” portion of it now! I also LOVE Gretchen Rubin’s podcast happier (if you need a new podcast ;) ) and her book Better Than Before about changing habits and understanding why we have the habits/tendencies we do, it’s kinda fun!
thanks SO MUCH for the recommendations — they sound amazing! xx
I’ve heard Big Magic is awesome. I’m such a book worm, too. Just finished Daring Greatly by Brene Brown (heavy, but good!), and today started Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream by David Platt which so far is amazing! XO
ohhhhh, thanks for the book suggestions :):)
There’s nothing like finding a good book that you just can’t put down, but it’s also bad if you’re a busy mom and business owner.. no time to read! I love your stacks and stacks of books btw
The American Heiress is on my Kindle (but I haven’t read it yet) and I want to read Big Magic and The Fringe Hours as well!
PS. I read your post on starting a book club and wondered if you were thinking of doing it now you’re back in MI? I’ve been wanting to start or join one but don’t know anyone who would want to do the same!
Hey Annie! I am, and I’m reallllllllly excited to get one started in the Spring once our baby is here :) I bet you and I could put together a little list of friends to contact — maybe they have someone they’d like to bring? And suddenly our book club is born! Are you up for it? ;D