In these trying times, we all need a little boost in our mood, and these books might be the perfect remedy to your flagging spirits.
If you can’t find the focus to read, you might want to try the audiobook version.
GMorning, GNight: Little Pep Talks for Me and You - Lin-Manuel Miranda And Jonny Sun
Lin-Manuel Miranda might be most famous for creating the musical Hamilton, but recently the composer has gained a firm following with his inspirational tweets.
These uplifting messages have been brought together in this book, alongside beautiful illustrations by Jonny Sun. A great way to start or end the day that will leave you feeling loved, comforted, and not alone.
On the Come Up - Angie Thomas
When Bri was a child, her father was an underground rap star with huge potential to make it to the mainstream. But before he could fulfill his dream, he was brutally murdered.
Now as a 16-year old, Bri has big plans to follow in his footsteps, despite the struggle she faces as a young woman in a male-dominated genre. Battling racism and prejudice, this young woman has an inspirational message in her determination to be herself.
Bedtime Stories for Stressed Out Adults - Lucy Mangan
Doesn’t this sound like exactly what the world needs right now? Even without the current pandemic, a lot of us are overworked and low on sleep.
Lucy Mangan has collected some of the most soothing stories and poetry to help calm the mind before bed and help you get a good night’s sleep. You’ll find pieces from writers like Oscar Wilde and excerpts from classics like the Wind in the Willows, all designed to transport you to a more peaceful place.
How to Survive a Plague - David France
With everything that’s going on, this might seem a little close to home to be uplifting, but this book deals with a very different kind of plague
David France takes a look at the AIDS crisis from the perspective of activist groups. Though it’s a harrowing subject, the stories of community, support, and survival make this an ultimately positive look at the crisis.
Everyone’s a Aliebn When Ur a Aliebn Too - Jomny Sun
For anyone that’s ever had a hard time fitting in – which let’s face it is most of us – this charming graphic novel is a must-read.
When an alien who has never fit in with his own people is sent to Earth, he finds comfort and acceptance with the many new creatures he encounters here.
The Book of Delights - Ross Gay
Within these pages, you’ll find exactly what the title offers. Over the course of a year, Ross Gay set about noticing the small joys that he encountered in everyday life, and put them down on paper.
In the face of adversity, it can be important to remember the simple delights, such as a cat on your lap or the taste of a single candy melting in your mouth.
