Bookworm Cottage Style

While I nearly always gravitate towards page-turning novels, January is the odd time of year when I crave the inspiration, revelation, and motivation that comes from nonfiction reads. Some of these are self-improvement books and some are simply powerful nonfiction books that expanded my worldview and made me want to live with greater intention and empathy.

Self Improvement

Untamed, by Glennon Doyle (2020; 352 pages) // Even if Glennon Doyle’s journey and struggles look far different than your own, there is a little something for everyone in these inspiring, powerful essays. I found myself highlighting so many words of wisdom throughout the book that I want to remember and carry forward.

Smartcuts: The Breakthrough Power of Lateral Thinking, by Shane Snow (2016; 272 pages) // I just finished this book, and I think it was the perfect read to get me inspired to take on the New Year. I loved the author’s focus on making tiny improvements everyday rather than huge sweeping changes. It is a great reminder that the little things really do matter. 

Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, by Vivek H. Murthy (2020; 352 pages) // This lovely book builds a solid case for relationships and social connection as an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle — not just at the end of life, but all throughout the life cycle. It is well-researched, beautifully-written, and will empower the reader to put people first.

Come as You Are: Revised and Updated: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life, by Emily Nagoski (2021; 400 pages) // This is an excellent, necessary book that not only helps women unlearn the harmful cultural assumptions and stereotypes around sex, but also helps women find ways to reduce stress, build empathy, and improve body positivity. The author has such a calming, reassuring, non-judgmental voice that I am now on a quest to read anything she writes. Can’t recommend highly enough!

Plays Well with Others: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know about Relationships Is (Mostly) Wrong, by Eric Barker (2022; 304 pages) // This book struck me as a far better, far less offensive version of Malcom Gladwell’s “Talking With Strangers.” In “Plays Well with Others,” journalist Eric Barker explores how human quirks and biases influence our relationships. The writing style is chatty and self-deprecating, and the writer doesn’t take himself or his subjects too seriously, making this a quick read. I recommend this book to all nonfiction fans!

Consequential Strangers: The Power of People Who Don’t Seem to Matter. . . But Really Do, by Melinda Blau and Karen L. Fingerman (2009; 298 pages) // This struck me as not just a book about acquaintances, but also a book about kindness. Although this is structured as more of a research book rather than a self-help book, the varied examples of different types of consequential strangers help readers to view their community with new eyes, empowering readers to be more intentional about cultivating kindness among strangers and friends alike.

Educational Nonfiction

Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, by Bryan Stevenson (2016; 368 pages) // This is the single most powerful book I’ve ever read. Written by a lawyer representing people on death row, this book helps readers to better understand systemic racism in America, and will inspire all Americans to build empathy for those living on the margins of society. It is impossible to read this book and not come away a changed person. 

Poverty, by America, by Matthew Desmond (2023; 304 pages) // This is such a good book!! From the author of Evicted (another book I loved and would highly recommend), this book explores the roots and realities of poverty and income inequality in America, and what we can do to help mend it. Highly highly recommend!

How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America, by Clint Smith (2021; 352 pages) // This book is a must-read! So much of the history that Americans are taught is incredibly whitewashed and misleading. Rather than shame the reader for their ignorance, award winning journalist, writer, and poet Clint Smith learns alongside us as he tours various places around the country to uncover America’s painful history, all written in Smith’s signature beautiful prose. This book is all at once welcoming, infuriating, heartbreaking, and necessary.

The Beauty of Dusk: On Vision Lost and Found, by Frank Bruni (2022; 320 pages) // Ending with one of my personal favorites! In this fantastic memoir, NYT columnist Frank Bruni recounts the aftermath of an unexpected medical diagnosis (a stroke rendering him blind in one eye) with striking resilience and gratitude. This charming book is a masterclass in taking a glass half-full approach to life’s challenges, and imperative reminder that everyone is carrying their own (often invisible) burdens. Share this book with anyone and everyone!

As for me? I’m hoping to get my hands on a copy of Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World, by John Vaillant, which was named one of the 10 best books of 2023 by the NYT. I’m also very intrigued by The Creative ACT: A Way of Being, by Rick Rubin, which Grace Atwood has been buzzing about.