Previous Book Reviews

“You are a Badass” by Jen Sincero [non-fiction]. My husband gave me this book for Christmas. At first I was like, “Hmmm, should I be concerned he got me a self-help book?” But I actually really enjoyed it! The author brings together a bunch of ideas for improving your life that you’ve heard before, but cuts through the bullshit and makes you feel like, duh, yeah, I should be doing that. For instance, Sincero inspired me to create a vision board, which I see everyday, that helps me chase after the life I want.And she’s making me feel like a badass! I plan on re-visiting this book once a year, so I don’t forget all the good nuggets of wisdom and for whenever I need a little pep talk. I highly recommend it to anyone who needs a little help loving themselves and finding motivation.

A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman [fiction]. This one was also a Christmas present from my husband (books,he knows me well!). I first saw the trailer for the film adaptation of this Swedish novel and thought that it looked like a good movie. Then when I saw the book at Costco (I always go down the book aisle at Costco, its a must for me) I got so excited to read it before I go see the movie. I finished the book, but still have yet to see the film. The story is great – sweet, sad, beautiful – all in one! The characters are lovable and Ove especially has a great depth to him that you discover while your read.

 

“Everything I Never Told You” by Celeste Ng [fiction]. I really enjoyed this novel. When you read the description, it may seem like a crime thriller, but it is more of a family drama focused on a Chinese-American family living in the 1970s. I found the family dynamics super interesting, especially in regards to being a blended asian family. I’m white and my husband is half-Japanese and we’ve only been married for about seven months, so I was fascinated with how the blended race in a family impacted the different characters. It is a pretty quick read and the mystery keeps you compelled throughout the tough subject matter. Worth the read!

“Walk Two Moons” by Sharon Creech [middle grade fiction]. I picked up a box of books from my parent’s house a few weeks ago, full of books I read growing up. “Walk Two Moons” was in it and I smiled when I came across it. I remember loving this book as a kid, so I was a little nervous to read it again as an adult, but I was pleasantly surprised! I loved it again! It is a great story with quirky characters you can’t help but love. Creech was one of my favorite authors as a kid and she does such a great job with imagery and intrigue. Now, weeks after I finished it, I find myself relating my own adult life to certain moments in the novel. Definitely still a favorite!