I know many people make reading lists for each particular year, but because I’m such a huge procrastinator, I have an ongoing list that inevitably runs over into each year; I just keep adding on. However, since this list is fairly large, I thought I’d share with you my top picks to complete in 2015.
I used to be that girl who found joy in reading sappy, romantic novels that always had a sad ending. However, as I got older, I started to realize that there’s so many more interesting genre’s out there, and that I was seriously missing out (I’ll be honest – Gone Girl opened my eyes – so my epiphany wasn’t too long ago). That’s not to say that I completely ditched my love stories – but I think any book that has a romantic theme involved definitely strays from my Nicholas Sparks days (the ultimate go-to whenever I’m feeling extra mushy). So, let’s dive in!
1. The Vacationers – This book has some teenage rebellion that most of us can relate to, and takes place on the beautiful beaches of Mallorca, Spain. A much needed getaway from this #polarvortex.
2. The Goldfinch – This story illustrates the seemingly perfect lives of one family in NYC, until they’re suddenly turned upside down. The writing is supposed to be spectacular and the main focal point for drawing the reader in.
2. Z – Zelda is about the wife of the great writer F. Scott Fitzgerald and its setting is during the roaring 20’s. The novel focuses on the love story between the two strong personalities, when Fitzgerald was just starting out.
3. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis – Jackie Kennedy. What else is there to say to persuade you to read a book about one of the most interesting women of all time? Many of us view Jackie just as she portrayed herself – strong and confident. However, this book details all of her ongoing inside struggles that most of us aren’t privy to. (I’m also still in the middle of These Few Precious Days – a mix of JFK and Jackie, with a hint of Marilyn. Really good read.) I might be slightly obsessed with them.
4. The Blonde – Speaking of being obsessed… this book is about Marilyn Monroe LOL. BUT, it’s a fictional story about Monroe when she was just known as Norma Jeane. Norma Jeane always longed to meet her real father, and when someone offers her a deal with information about him in exchange for secrets about JFK, she realizes she may be in over her head.
5. Dear America: Letter’s Home From Vietnam – I know. This book came out more than 10 years ago, but as I mentioned before, I’m not all about the new and best thing. When my friend Kristina suggested I read this book, I googled it and immediately added it to my list. This book portrays the trials and struggles of the Vietnam veterans through intimate letters sent home to their loved ones.
6. Crazy Rich Asians – This story seems pretty lighthearted – focusing on a girl who finds out her boyfriend is basically royalty and then has to deal with his snotty relatives. (I think I just want to read it for the key words, “millionaire” and “boyfriend.”)
What are you planning on reading this year? I’d love suggestions!
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I just finished “All the Light We Cannot See,” and I’d highly recommend it! I liked the Goldfinch as well. I’m in the market for a new read now, and will check out some on your list!
Glad you like some of the books on the list, and thanks for the recommendation! I’ve been hearing good things about that book, so I definitely think I’ll give it a try!
I’m one of those people mesmerized by the days of Camelot and others of the Kennedy clan. I’m close to completing These Few Precious Days. I must read Jackie Bouv. Kennedy next. Interesting suggestions.
Enjoy! The Goldfinch is LONG but totally engrossing, and I really liked Z by Zelda, and the Vacationers.
Thanks so much! I’m glad I got a second opinion, because none of my friends have read these books – Can’t wait! x
I have never been a big reader myself and over vacation I read the book Foxcatcher written by olympic wrestler Mark Schultz. Its now a movie featuring Channing Tatum, Steve Carell and Mark Ruffalo. You should defiantly check this book out!!!!
Thanks for the suggestion! I love true stories like that; I’ll be adding it to my list!