I don’t know why it’s taken me so long to share the books I read June. I mean honestly… August is tomorrow and it was only four books! Blame it on a busy work/travel schedule and stress?
Moving on, let’s talk about self care for a moment, and the reason why reading and books matter so much to me. 2015 and 2016 were both very rough and stressful years for me. In the Fall of 2016, I was slowly coming out of a very depressed period and discovered this cool new online service that was affordable for me at the time and seemed up my alley. I was still looking for healthy distractions to keep me on an upward climb, and this seemed like a good one. So I signed up for an account.
That service was Book of the Month. And by the time I received my second box, I had discovered one of my now favorite books of all times.
I struggle with getting out of my own head at times. I’ve overwhelmed my lingering tasks, ideas and things I want to do. I overthink until I drive myself crazy. But the one thing that helps me get out of my head and function a little easier is diving into someone else’s world. Books are my ultimate form of self care. They are a little indulgence that enables me to take best care of myself. They teach me knew things, open my eyes to new worlds and perspectives and I’m so grateful for them.
I say this because, since talking more about books on the blog and on YouTube, people keep asking me how do you read so much. (I’ve answered that a bit here).
But honestly, I read because I need to. I drink water, eat veggies and read because I have to. They keep me living well.
Now, onto June’s books.
Vicious by VE Schwab
Rating: 5/5
What I liked/disliked: VE Schwab is one of my favorite fantasy writers. She comes up with the best stories and characters. This was one of the most unique plots I’ve read in a long time, with characters who I couldn’t help but love. I’ve already purchased a ticket to her book signing for the next installment in this series!
Sick by Porochista Khakpour
Rating: N/A
What I liked/disliked: Ranking someone’s memoir is tough, so sometimes I hold out on ratings for them. This book was super interesting. I don’t think there is enough representation of chronic illness in media, and there needs to be. The writing in this book is masterful. Khakpour has such a way with words and phrases that kept me turning pages. The middle was a little slow, and some parts seemed a bit repetitive, but overall I really enjoyed this book.
The Dreamer by E.J. Mellow
Rating: 3.5 stars
What I liked/disliked: EJ Mellow is another writer I randomly discovered and quickly became obsessed with and couldn’t stop reading. This is book one in her first fantasy series. I loved the characters and the world building for the “dreamscape” she created. I do think this book was totally a set up for the next books, so there was a lot of background information and context giving to help build the world to a point where book 2 can (hopefully) pick up running. I also really loved the friendship and romances in this book!
Yes We (Still) Can by Dan Pfeiffer
Rating: 5/5 stars
What I liked/disliked: What kind of friend of the pod would I be if I didn’t read this book? Dan did a great job of laying out the current state of politics in America, how we got here, why the Obama administration was so fantastic, and what we have to do next. I thought he made excellent points in a way digestible by anyone, even those who don’t hate talking politics. It also has Dan’s great humor sprinkled in, which makes it even better. You can totally tell that Dan is a communications strategist first by how he organizes and lays out his points. The comm major in me absolutely appreciated that.
What did you read in June (or July) that you loved? And what book is up next on your reading list? I always get great recommendations from you guys!!
Your blog is actually what inspired me to start reading again. I used to LOVE it. But then college and then work and life stifled my love for it. I’m slowing inching my way back in though. Honestly just figuring out what I actually like to read. As a creative non-fiction writer, it tends to be my go to but I’m trying new things out. In July I read Sharp Objects mostly because I watched the first episode of the HBO special and was impatient. And also Children of Blood and Bone which I ABSOLUTELY LOVED!
I’m so glad you’re reading again! I definitely didn’t read for leisure as much when I was in school but have loved getting back to it.
I loved Gone Girl, so I definitely want to read Sharp Objects and Dark Places to see how I like them, too!