One of the habits I've been focused on getting back in to lately is reading. Audiobooks have helped a lot, and some beach time too. Summer always reminds me of summer reading programs at the library, where you'd get stickers and prizes as you filled out your reading card. Now summer reading prizes would be more like a lazy weekend by the pool, under a big sunbrella with a fruity drink within reach.
I'm changing up my reading lists here, so that instead of putting up books I'm planning on reading, I'm going to share books I've read and a short review. Mostly for my own edification.
So this month, I've read (clockwise from top left):
1. Show Your Work, Austin Kleon.
This is a reread for me - just read it a couple months ago. Really good, short read that's pretty invaluable advice about how to build an audience and make your dreams happen.
2. #GIRLBOSS, Sophia Amoruso.
Honestly, this book has been life-changing for me. It's one of those books that found me at the right time and the right place. I've listened to it on audiobook three times already, and actually ordered a hard copy to reread. I've never done that before, so just read it. Lots of great perspective on career and life, the power of observational skills and magical thinking, and how to really show up for your life.
3. I Feel Bad About My Neck, and Other Thoughts On Being A Woman, Nora Ephron.
The original Mindy project. Nora Ephron is basically Harry and Sally, and that woman you hope to be in the future. Full of funny observations about modern life, while being painfully aware of her own privilege. My favorite line: Oh, how I regret not having worn a bikini for the entire year I was 26. If anyone young is reading this, go, right this minute, put on a bikini, and don’t take it off until you’re 34. Nora, you are so missed.
4. One More Thing, B.J. Novak.
Just ok. Once again, an audiobook listen, so it was entertaining to hear it in the author's voice, and also have guest readers like Mindy Kaling, Katy Perry, Lena Dunham, Rainn Wilson, etc. Stories were short, but a little too aware of its own cleverness for me.
5. Say What You Will, Cammie McGovern.
If you like YA, and you liked The Fault in Our Stars and Eleanor and Park, then you really will enjoy this. I know because I am that demographic. And not just because I illustrated the cover.
What have you been reading? Any good book recs for me?
