Books To Read When The World Feels Awful
Right now, everything feels pretty terrible. The news is just constant sound bites of terrible politicians. It's dark at 4pm (this should be illegal). And it hasn't stopped raining for two months.
Honestly, we all need a break from real life sometimes, and that feels especially true right now. But what do you read when you need some brain space? Well, we've put together this list of books to read when the world feels awful and you need to escape for awhile, all of which are available from our library!
The Wood: John Lewis-Stempel
Right from the get-go, this book is calming. Taking the form of diary entries of John Lewis-Stempel during the time he managed the area, The Wood follows all four seasons. Forget about the world for awhile and immerse yourself completely in the world of the Wood, along with poetry and recipes for acorn coffee, chestnut soup and more.
Sunny Side Up: Susan Calman
Sometimes we need a reminder that not everyone is terrible. In Sunny Side Up Susan Calman is on a mission to show that kindness is a wonderful gift. Reading this will fill you with the sort of joy and positivity that we all need every now and again - the book equivalent of a hug!
The Travelling Cat Chronicles: Hiro Arikawa
The cat in this story begins as a stray, but is taken in by Satoru, who tries to find him a new home. At first Nana, the cat's new name, is unsure why Satoru wants to give him away, but he works it out. While you may cry at the end of this book, it is full of companionship and tenderness, and will wrap you in warm feelings like a blanket and soothe your soul.
Word by Word: Kory Stamper
Have you ever wondered where definitions in the dictionary comes from? Kory Stamper is a lexicographer, whose job used to be defining those very words for the Merriam-Webster dictionary. This book is extremely entertaining, and a great way to lose a few hours thinking about how to define the word 'take', or why the word irregardless is actually fine.
On the Slow Train: Michael Williams
Stuffed full of nostalgia, On The Slow Train invites readers to travel across the UK with Michael Williams, from suburban London to rural lines. If you're used to trains just being announcements of endless delays then this is the relaxing read for you.
Cunk on Everything: Philomena Cunk
Laughter is the best distraction when the world is awful and The Encyclopedia Philomena will definitely give you the giggles. Philomena Cunk (comic pseudonym of Diane Morgan) has created this encyclopedia of all human knowledge, encompassing everything from sausages to Henry VIII to vegetarian sausages. If you need to smile reach for this book.
Red, White & Royal Blue: Casey McQuiston
What happens when America's First Son falls in love with the Prince of Wales? A heartwarming romance novel! Immerse yourself completely in this fictional world where a diplomatic faked friendship turns into much more. It's full of idealism and humour - the perfect book to escape into!
What books do you turn to for some escapism? Let us know in the comments!
If you liked this post you may also like: 15 Reasons Why Audiobooks are Amazing or Self Care Week: Why Self Care Deserves Your Attention.
