Books

As a kid, I was very passionate about reading. I devoured books like Cake and couldn’t stop no matter how hard I tried. Now that I am older, “devouring” books takes a little more effort and diligence. My mind wanders easily if the book isn’t engaging or stimulating enough, and I find that many books end up on my DNF list. However, here I’ve listed a few books that I had no trouble getting through as they captured my attention and held it through the entirety of the novel. Side note/disclaimer: A lot of these books were recommended on “Booktok”, but I do agree with the hype they received. Also please make sure you read TW for each book before picking it up. Some of them have heavy content. 1.) Lessons in Chemistry: This was the feminist novel I didn’t know I needed. I came away feeling proud, angry, empowered and conflicted. 2.) Book Lovers by Emily Henry: This was a quick romcom with a twist. The characters drive the story, and make it unique from other romance books. 3.) Red White and Royal Blue I admit I picked this up after watching the movie trailer, and loved it. It had a simple premise, but the characters are lovable and easy to root for. 4.) Legend by Marie Lu I read this book back in high school, and rereading it took me back to the dystopian era I used to love. It was easy and quick and got me out of my reading slump. 5.) Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin I have a longer review on this here, but truly one of my favorite reads this year. It explored so many topics and kept me on the edge of my seat.

TW: This book (and review) deals with topics related to domestic abuse, gun violence, abortion, mental health struggles (including suicide), and substance abuse. Please proceed with caution. Here is a short review of Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. “Today I want to talk about this amazing book called Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. On the surface this novel is about two friends’ journey designing and producing video games, however, this is a captivating novel that delves beyond that and immerses readers in the complexities of life and human struggles. With its thought-provoking exploration of various themes, Zevin invites us to contemplate our own perspectives and draw connections to our society today. The number one thing that really touched my heart was how Zevin captures the immigrant experience in America. As an immigrant myself, I know what it feels like to navigate two worlds, never quite fitting in either. But this book? Oh, it gets it. It perfectly portrays the struggles, the challenges, and the feeling of being caught between cultures. It feels like your personality is a puzzle piece, and you have to keep trying different ones until hopefully, one fits your surroundings. It’s a constant battle with yourself, and this book provides the perfect metaphors for that experience. Beyond the immigrant experience, Zevin also addresses other weighty topics such as gun violence and substance abuse. These issues, which may feel distant to those of us who are lucky to not have experienced them, are brought to life in a tangible and thought-provoking manner. Through the book’s pages, I gained a deeper understanding of the human impact behind these problems, moving beyond headlines and social media posts. It made these problems feel more real, somehow, in a way that I hadn’t felt before. It opened my eyes to the realities faced by others, expanding my empathy and prompting important reflections. If you’re looking for a book that will touch your heart and make you ponder life’s big questions, this is it. Just a friendly heads-up though, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow covers some heavy stuff, so make sure to read the trigger warnings beforehand. But trust me, Gabrielle Zevin’s storytelling is pure magic. It invites you into the depths of the human experience, leaving you with a deeper understanding and a newfound empathy. So go ahead, grab a copy, and get ready for an incredible reading adventure. Enjoy!”