One of my favorite things to do this time of year is curl up on the couch with a blanket and a good book. Since I was a little girl, I’ve always loved reading — and I’m happy I chose to become an English Major in college, rather than pursing Poli Sci (which eventually became my minor). But with all that said, I still always have trouble finding a GOOD BOOK. One that hits all my criteria: well-written, a good story, not too depressing / dysfunctional or scary, relevant, insightful, one you want to pick up and keep reading, etc, etc.
You too?
I’m always hesitant to recommend books to friends, because I know everyone has such different tastes. And that’s OK! In fact, this mirrors my views on nutrition. Everything should be personalized and if you don’t like a certain food, you don’t have to force yourself to eat it! Same with reading! Reading, like eating, should be enjoyable, and if you don’t like a book or a type of food, it’s totally okay to put it down and move on.
With all that said, I’ve narrowed it down to these gems I’ve read over the years. I’ve been eager to put these all in one place for some time now, and not just on my bookshelf or kindle. I’m excited to share these with you and maybe you’ll love one of them just as much as I do. I tried to be brutally honest, so you can sense whether this book is the right fit, or to keep on browsing.
The time between Christmas and New Years, or time spent on an airplane or waiting on transit, can be the best time to get lost in a book — rather than scrolling on your phone, right??
And if you’re not totally convinced, the health coach in me has to add, reading for pleasure helps lower the stress response! So, my friends, I encourage you to create some downtime this holiday season to curl up and dive in.
Happy Reading!
PS: This post does contain affiliate links which may compensate me a tiny fee if you make a purchase, xo.
BOOKS ABOUT LIFE
Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist. THIS BOOK. If you’re a busy, workaholic, go-go-go type, then this has your name written all over it. The writing is stunningly beautiful and the writer draws you in to her story with such honesty, and captivating, important messages. If you haven’t read it yet, I’d say this is my #1 suggestion! I’ve sent this book to so many of my clients.
Unbound by Steph Jagger. When I read this book a few years ago, I felt like the author was speaking directly to me. She writes about leaving her high-paying corporate job to pursue skiing around the world and breaking the world record. And while I’m not a skiier, the storytelling, the identify shifts she experiences, and moving from a masculine world to a closer look at her feminine side, really resonate. This is another book I’ve sent along countless times to friends and clients.
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes. If you’re ready to embrace all that 2020 has to offer, this is your book. The writer of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal is an introvert and married to her demanding work. When she decides to just say “yes” for a year and step outside her comfort zone, she completely transforms. Hilarious and super enjoyable read.
The Anatomy of a Calling by Dr. Lissa Rankin. This is a book about life, career changes, and the questioning of the conventional medical profession. The author begins to doubt her path as a doctor and tries everything from a shaman to natural healers and creates a story uniquely her own.
Carry On Warrior, by Glennon Doyle. Life is not just FINE, and this author brings to life stories of the messes and the real life behind the scenes in beautifully written and hilarious short stories. This is a must read if you’re game for a funny, cynical, and downright real portrayal of what life is really like. I adored it, and laughed and cried my way through.
Primal Blueprint by Mark Sisson. You’l notice I got to the 5th recommendation before I even mention a nutrition book. THIS is my favorite book about nutrition and I have such respect for the author. I love the stories of ancestral humans and how that influences what we should be doing for optimal health in today’s modern world. If you’ve been one of my clients, you’ll recognize a lot of these stories (because I love to re-tell them)! And if you’re looking to uplevel your health, longevity and nutrition in the new year, this book is a well-researched, smart and honest resource.
Food Freedom Forever, by Melissa Hartwig Urban. If you’ve struggled with an “all or nothing” eating style, dieting or restricting, then this book is for you. I literally ate it right up, and love the concept of “if it’s worth it - eat it.”
The Highly Sensitive Person, Dr. Elaine Aron. When I read this book way back in 2012, I felt like I’d finally found my personal “How-To” Manual. The author describes what it is to be a Highly Sensitive Personal (HSP) and how 15-20% of the population is more empathetic, sensitive to loud sounds, smells and scratchy fabrics, and may need to take special care of their health, and so much more.
Quiet by Susan Cain. My former boss in finance recommended this book to me when I mentioned to him on a business trip that I’m actually an introvert (I played the extroverted client and sales role deceivingly well!). This book became quite popular in tandem with the author’s Ted Talk on the subject and is extensively researched and a must read guide for introverts in today’s world.
How to Be Married by Jo Piazza. OK, since I did get married this year, I had to throw in a book on love and relationships! This book profiles marriages around the world and what ingredients for great relationships exist in different cultures. I found it to be a fascinating case study and a fun book to read before getting married. Also a great read if you’re new to a relationship or already in a long-term partnership.
The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, PhD. HEY 20-somethings, read this book! My friend suggested this book to me just after I turned 30 and I devoured it. The author speaks to the importance of taking bold career steps in your 20s and setting yourself up for success in life. It’s not a pushy or authoritative manual, but rather an insightful physiologist’s view on what makes a strong and resilient human being, with little life regrets. Buy this for your 20 to 30-year-old friends and family members!
MEMOIRS
Becoming by Michelle Obama. Oh Michelle, you go HIGH! This was my favorite read of 2018. I love, love, love memoirs of successful people and our former first lady knocks it out of the park with this one. Everything from her childhood and family life in the South Side of Chicago, meeting Barack Obama, how to navigate motherhood while being a working woman, and of course, their rise to the White House. I loved the book so much I even bought last minute tickets to her book talk at The Barclay’s Center last December for an astronomical ticket price. FAN GIRLING right here. The hardcover is also on sale right now for just $11.
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. Finally, a book about running and for those of you who love memoirs, the great and epic story of founding Nike. This book was magic for me, and I highly suggest that everyone read about this iconic company. Just enough economics, personal stories and running to balance it all out.
Shrill by Lindy West. Ladies! Feminists! This book will fire you up, make you laugh, and make you cry. I’m very glad I read it and am about to dive in to her second book, The Witches are Coming.
The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer. Laughed out loud at least 100 times with this gem. Not only was her book funny, but I was pleasantly surprised at how serious, deep and insightful it was. Reading her memoir gave me a completely different appreciation for the comic and woman who is Amy Schumer.
Do the KIND Thing by Daniel Lubetzky. For you nutrition nuts and/or entrepreneurs, you’ll love this memoir about the hustle of the founder who build the company that sells KIND bars.
We’re Going to Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union. Another great memoir, that’s relevant, funny and touches upon serious issues like being black in America. You definitely might need more wine.
HIKING / RUNNING
Wild by Cheryl Strayed. Let’s just say, the book is way better than the movie. For all my lady hikers out there, or folks who have daydreamed about hiking the Pacific Crest Trail or the Appalachian Trail, this book is for you.
Becoming Odyssa by Jennifer Pharr Davis. Disclaimer: you have to really love hiking to get in to this book. The author recounts her journey along the Appalachian Trail, which is something I’m absolutely obsessed with reading about.
Run The World by Becky Wade. Similar Disclaimer: you have to really love running and have run competitively to appreciate this book. Otherwise, all the running jargon might throw you off. That said, to all my runners, this book about running cultures around the world will stick with you for life. I still reference it.
A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson. I promise, this is the last niche hiking book. I loved mentally escaping from NYC, learning about the creation of the Appalachian Trail, and getting lost in the woods with this one.
NOVELS
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles. If F. Scott Fitzgerald was alive today, he would have written this novel. The writing style is majestic, and the story about New York City in the late 1930s over New Years Eve is utterly captivating. Everyone who I tell about this book absolutely loves it!
The Secret History by Donna Tartt. A small liberal arts college in Vermont. A murder-cover up. A thrilling story without it being truly scary (just my kinda book).
Atonement by Ian McEwan. Sure, you may have seen the movie, but again, the book is even better. Ian McEwan is known for his beautiful prose and powerful writing. If you’re in the mood for a gorgeous book, that is a touch sad, this is for you.
The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. I haven’t read this book since 2006 and I think I owe it a re-read. It brought me to my knees then, and I'll always think of it as one of my favorites.
FUN ONES
I read mostly fun “beach reads” on Kindle, including …..
When Life Gives You Lululemons
The Secret Life of Violet Grant
and more seriously, The Winds of Skilak
and hey guys, if you’re still reading … Red Notice was a thrilling read!
And a shameless plug, if you haven’t scooped it up yet, my book, Self-Care in the City, makes for a fun, life-changing read and also makes a great gift!
I’d love to hear if you end up reading and loving any of these books. So don’t hesitate to drop me a line in the new year via email or Instagram @michellefitvista and let me know.
