How many books do you have on your bedside table? I currently have 6.
Some I’ve read, others I’m getting ready to dive into. I can’t ever remember a time when I didn’t have at least one book next to my bed. Doesn’t mean I always read them, but having a book around is my comfort zone.
A few months ago I started a pretty intensive life coaching class (more posts about this to come), and one thing that was front and center in the course is that I needed to start doing something for myself every day. Something that I enjoy, that grounded me. For me, that is reading. When you are reading a great book, it’s pretty hard to focus on anything else but the task at hand. It opens your mind to other things and lets your brain take a little break from the day-to-day work and family issues that normally take front and center.
It’s a pretty eclectic selection of books I have. I tend to like reading all different types of genres. I’ll read a novel one week and then I’ll switch to a self-help book. I wanted to share with you the ones I currently have.
1. On the top of the pile is Firegirl, by Tony Abbott. The other night, my 12 year old came into my room while I was reading another book and gave this one to me. She said I just had to read it. I actually enjoy reading the books my kids read… it gives me a better idea of what they enjoy, and it’s a great way to open up a dialogue with them. I’ve also recommended some of the book I enjoy to my girls… ones that I think will help with whatever situations they are currently dealing with.
2. The “Perfect” Parent, by Roma Khetarpal in next. Full disclosure: Roma is a client of mine. I can’t tell you the number of parenting books I’ve read over the years, but this one is truly different. It doesn’t tell you HOW to parent. It helps you realize that you’ve had the power to be “perfect” all along. It’s the type of book you keep next to your bed and refer to over and over again, depending on the current issues you are going through with your kids.
3. Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand is a book I just finished reading. I wasn’t interested in it when it was first published, but it was my Book Club read this month and once I started it, I couldn’t put it down. I really love this book… and yes, the movie is coming out December 25th (directed by Angelina Jolie). This true story of Olympian runner Louis Zamperini is just incredible. It tells of his life growing up as a boy without much direction, to his climb to Olympic greatness, to his capture as a Japanese POW during World War II. It’s the kind of story that speaks to the human spirit.. and makes you treasure the life you have.
4. City of the Sun, by Juliana Maio. I was invited to hear Juliana speak a few weeks ago and I wasn’t able to attend. I was so interested in the topic of this book, however, that I actually requested a copy from the publicist. I rarely do that. The book is historical fiction (my favorite genre) and takes place amidst WWII in Egypt. Add the Jews and Nazis to the mix and I was definitely intrigued.
5. Embrace Your Magnificence, by Fabienne Frederickson was a NetGalley book that was offered to me a few months ago. I read through from cover to cover and it’s STILL sitting next to my bed. It’s the kind of self-help, spiritual book that you kind of want to keep close to you. I wrote a review already if you want to learn more.
6. Bread Alone, by Judi Hendricks is a book that was recommended by one of my author friends, Cindy Arora. Cindy’s book, Heartbreak Cake, was phenomenal and since I love anything having to do with food writing, I picked up Bread Alone, which was one of her favorites.
One of my goals is to read more, or should I say, one of my goals is to find the TIME to read more.
What books are on your list?
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