Books Worth Reading ☆ July 2018

I know I’m a bit behind the times but I have to tell you…it was only last month when I read my first e-book.

I’ve always enjoyed the new book smell when you open up the cover of a highly anticipated book. I’ve always gotten a sense of progress and accomplishment as I flip through each and every physical page. I was afraid that e-books wouldn’t give me that same sense of enjoyment and fulfillment.

But I was wrong.

I still get enjoyment from having access to hundreds and hundreds of books that I can browse through in the palm of my hand. I still get a sense of accomplishment as I watch the page (screen) number increase, getting closer to the final page.  I’m still learning and getting new perspectives from the stories of peoples lives, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, and that’s really the reason I read anyway.

I’ve been using the Libby app on my phone for Nebraska OverDrive Libraries that I can access through my library membership and man-o-man! It’s opened up a whole new world of convenience when it comes to reading!  It seems like when I’m settling in for the night, I grab my phone, my journal, a pen, a glass of water and my book. I usually forget one of those things when I settle in and have to get back up to retrieve it. Well, in the wonderful world of e-books, that’s one less thing to grab!

I tell ya, sometimes it’s the simplest discoveries in life that are some of the best discoveries.

My newfound love of e-books doesn’t mean I’m boycotting physical books. Not at all. I’m just basking in the newly discovered option that’s added such convenience and productivity to my life whenever I have a few minutes here or there to sneak in a few more pages (or screens, rather) of reading.

RELATED: BOOKS WORTH READING ☆ MAY 2018

On to my list of Books Worth Reading July 2018.

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The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing 

If you’re looking for a new perspective on tidying up your home, I highly recommend this book.

The author, Marie Kodo, covers it all – clothes, books, gifts, gadgets, accessories, photos, keepsakes.

The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up will remind you that it’s okay to let go of things that no longer serve a purpose in your life. It points out the fact that, often times, the clutter in our surroundings can bring about clutter in our minds that distracts us from more productive and purposeful thoughts. It reminds us that we shouldn’t feel guilty for getting rid of a gift that no longer brings us joy.

Along with her tidying tips, Kodo’s story is intriguing as well. She shares how she turned a childhood interest (tidying) into a thriving career that has created outcomes for her clients that extend well beyond having a tidy home.

The book walks you through a specific process for effective tidying. A process that will be long-lasting. A process that helps develop tidying habits.

I haven’t necessarily implemented the entire process she suggests although bits and pieces have been helpful when I’ve had the ambition to tackle the closets or kitchen cupboards.

After reading this book, I have a new perspective about discarding items from my home – particularly gifts which is what I struggled with most – as well as strategies to prevent new items from entering my home – because deep down I know when it will be an item that will end up being shoved to the back of the cupboard or closet or drawer with no hope to see the light of day anytime soon.

Scrappy Little Nobody

Scrappy Little Nobody was the first e-book I’ve ever read and I think I’m now hooked on the accessibility and convenience.

At the time I was looking for something lighthearted and fun which is just what I got with Anna Kendrick’s autobiography. It’s raw, hilarious, a little crude and so truthful and authentic. If you’re a fan of Kendrick’s movies and performances and okay with some unruly recollections of her past experiences, you’ll enjoy learning about her persistence and dedication in pursuit of her dreams which all began at a young age.

Kendrick’s recollections of her journey reminded me that you MUST be who you are. Trying to be anything different or loosing sight of your true values will not place you on a path of joy or fulfillment.

It also reminded me that we must be weary of becoming stagnant. There’s always room to grow. Always something to learn. Always new experiences that are intended to move us forward.

Eat, Pray, Love

I was living vicariously through Elizabeth Gilbert’s travels around the world during her journey of self-care and self-discovery that she documented in Eat, Pray, Love.

I love exploring new places, I just don’t love the travel required to get to those new places. Long car rides tend to give me headaches, flying makes me queasy and I don’t even want to know how I would feel on a cruise ship.

Not that you need to travel around the world to care for yourself or discover your life’s purpose, but that’s what worked for her. Maybe it’s an afternoon to yourself. Maybe it’s investing in your education. Maybe it’s volunteering your time. You do what works for you.

The authenticity and vulnerability she shared throughout her journey of eating her way through Italy, meditating in India and learning to love in Indonesia makes her story relatable and her growth through it all is inspiring.

If you’re looking for a little adventure, you’ll melt right into this book.

Do you prefer e-books or do you enjoy holding a physical book in your hands? Share in the comments below.