At the beginning of the year, I took the GoodReads Reading Challenge (AND Modern Mrs. Darcy's 2015 Reading Challenge). I set my goal at 30 books, which was TWICE as many as I'd read in 2014. I thought this was pretty bold considering I was having a new baby, but reading is a priority for me ... plus, I found some sneaky ways to get more reading in.
1. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo
Life-changing is right. After reading this book in May, I have systematically gone through (almost) everything in my house and it has had a huge impact not only on the space itself but our family life, our relationships, even our future goals.
Read. This. Book.
2. Rising Strong by Brené Brown
Look, there's Brené Brown and there is everyone else. This book has fundamentally shifted by thinking on LOTS of things. I still think about it and mull over the lessons learned within the pages of this book.
This book made me a better wife, a better parent, a better person.
3. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
This was the most beautiful piece of fiction I read all year. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's words and obserevations are lyrical and beautiful even when they are heartbreaking in their truth.
4. Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
This book. I struggle to put words to the power of this book. Every American should read this book - a letter Ta-Nehisi Coates wrote to his son about being a black man. I don't care the color of your skin. If you HAVE SKIN, you should read it.
Don't take my word for it. Toni Morrison calls it "required reading." Listen to her if you won't listen to me.
5. Lafayette in the Somewhat United States by Sarah Vowell
Sarah Vowell's narrative histories are insightful without being cliche, patriotic without being naive, smart and funny AND historical. Absolutely love her and loved this examination of Revolutionary roots.
