Self-Care Sunday: In Defense of Putting Your Phone Down and Picking Up a Book

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass ($6) by Lewis Carroll was my first favorite novel, and it never disappoints me. The storytelling is masterful, and if you think this is going to be a fluffy Disney book, think again. It is iconic and timeless, and I can always pick it up.

Untamed ($17, originally $28) by Glennon Doyle just came out this year, but it's already on my "greatest of all time" list. The book is a powerful manifesto on creating a life you want and embracing all that you are. After reading it, I sent it to my best girlfriends, because I think it should be required reading. It's also written in little vignettes, so it's easy to just open a page and get some magic.

Pride and Prejudice ($9) by Jane Austen is my take on a fun, light read. It's just so good. The story never fails, the characters are so vivid, and it's a novel that will keep you excited, even if you've read it a million times (like me).

Educated ($15, originally $28) by Tara Westover is a story that you can't believe is actually true. I read it in a book club with some of my friends, and though we all have different tastes, we were equally blown away by Westover's courage, strength, and genius. I'd recommend it to anyone.

The Vanishing Half ($16, originally $27) by Brit Bennett is the latest book I've read, but it's another one I had to ration out over two days. I found myself utterly enthralled with the story, and it's easily the most engaging novel I've read this year. I found myself continuously saying, "But what happens next?" as I was reading, and the social commentary is powerful and poignant without being overwhelming. I loved it.

Ironically, I read On the Road ($15, originally $18) by Jack Kerouac while I was on vacation out of the country. As I got through the book, I found myself longing to be back in America. It is hopeful, melodically written, and a joy to consume.

As much as I love a novel, I'm a sucker for a good business book. Shoe Dog ($11, originally $20) by Phil Knight, the creator of Nike, has the unique distinction of being a memoir and a look inside one of the most impactful companies of our time. Knight is a master storyteller, and you will love this book whether you're a fitness fanatic or you don't own a pair of running shoes.

Devotions ($22, originally $30) by Mary Oliver is a book I have by my bed. I love poetry, and Oliver was a genius at the medium. I know I can open to any page, read just one poem, and have a shift in my perspective. You can thank me later.