I used to be that kid who would never been seen around my house, car, or travels without a book in hand. I was obsessed with the (dare I say it) Fear Street and Christopher Pike books for sure (did I just date myself?)…. And then of course there were the classics. I was never a Jane Austen fan (too slow), but I did love Great Gatsby, One flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest.

Reading was my escape. It allowed me to forget the stress, the drama, and the ridiculousness of middle and high school. As life went on, I still enjoyed to read, but time felt less available. My time traveling and relaxing was spent watching tv shows, catching up on work or friends. However, over the past year, I’ve tried to change that. Ever since the Kindle App, I’ve felt like I can always have a thousand books with me. Whether I’m doing a quick subway ride or grabbing a coffee, I have a few minutes to snack on a few pages. Those few pages are enough to immerse me and get me excited to read all over again. So this summer, I’ve decided to let myself dive into some good ones.

The ones I’ve already read in the past week:

WILD by Cheryl Strayed

Loved it. Felt like it was the perfect escape book and has motivated me since to try out hiking more often (in smaller doses than the main character, though!)

10% Happier by Dan Harris

I was expecting a book that provided some more tangible advice on reducing stress and meditation. If you’re looking for that, this book is not that. However, this book is entertaining, and relatable. If you’re looking for a quick read on how someone else dealt with anxiety and stress, this is a fun one.

On The List:

Everybody Writes by Ann Handley

Because it’s good to support your community, and because she’s a talented and amazing content writer. Looking forward to learning some new stuff!

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

I actually started this one…while on the train back from NYC … and I’m stoked to continue it. I’m always into suspense filled novels, and I think this one might be the “ticket.” And my friend, Claire (an avid book reader) – has already given raving reviews, so there’s that.

Do your Om Thing by Rebecca Pancheco

Another local Boston smartie – have to support! And it looks like I could use a little de-stressing (as could we all), so I hope to get some good nuggets and tangible advice from this one.

Paper Towns by John Green

Apparently, this book is about to become a movie, too. Impressed this author is kind of kicking ass and taking names. His books are fun, easy reads, and the perfect beach accessory.

What’s on your list? Please share!

#radiatedaily