Top 5 Favorite Non-Fiction
I’ve only in the past few years developed a taste for non-fiction and actually use them as a way to break reading slumps as they require less brain work than fiction. But, I also like them because they stimulate my brain in the learning way and I do love to learn. I’ve started taking more time with my non-fiction books and almost treating it like schoolwork, taking notes or marking the pages to note for later. That also helps me remember better and really drive in the lessons or knowledge of the book.
1. The Wisdom of the Shire by Noble Smith
A worth-while read, especially for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien and his hobbits. It was incredible and moving and chapter 13 had me laughing out loud. Looking at becoming a happier person through the eyes of a hobbit (my life goals honestly) was just so wholesome and reading it made me feel at peace. Here is one of my favorite hobbit wisdom: Your voice wants to sing the story of your life. Let it be.
2. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Yes, the book every influencer tells you to read, but it is for a reason. Incredibly useful, even to someone like me who is self-disciplined and has good habits. You never stop growing and learning new things is always beneficial. His 1% a day rule is something I’m basing my 2023 on. A definite must for people trying to improve their life.
3. Adulting by Kelly Williams Brown
Perfect for all ages, this book guides you through the stickiest situations you might get into in your journey through life. From apartment hunting to relationships, it covers everything you’ll need to know about being a real adult. One of my favorite tips is how to make a killer cheese board.
4. American Cozy by Stephanie Pedersen
I read this book a while ago, but it was my first introduction to hygge; a word in Danish and Norwegian that describes a mood of coziness with feelings of wellness and contentment. For more on it, I highly recommend The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking, which teaches the basics and traditional hygge. I chose American Cozy for this however because it gives more help in how to change your life to become more hygge in practical steps and without loosing things you already love in your life and home. It finds a good balance between hygge and the chaos we all know in everyday life. I have two posts on hygge, taking notes from both these books: ‘To Live Like a Hobbit: Embracing Hygge’ and ‘Affordable Ways to Hygge all Year Round’ and you can also check out the hygge tag for posts of similar vibes.
5. A Walk in the Woods by Joseph Parent
As soon as I saw this book, I knew I was in for a treat. You follow our old friend, Winnie the Pooh, on a day around the Hundred Acre Woods and learning little ways of mindfulness along the way. It is honestly a very relaxing read with very simple easy lessons on how to slow down and appreciate the moment you are in. I have a post titled ‘Easy Steps to Mindfulness’ that breaks down some of the steps from this book if you want to check it out.
If you are getting bored with steamy fantasy, I highly suggest trying out a non-fiction book. Pick a subject you are interested in and find a book that speaks to you. Your brain might be bored because it wants to learn.