Spring break in the US typically falls the week during or after the Easter holiday. It is a time when many families and college students travel while on break from school. One of my favorite things to do on vacation is to read. There is something about getting immersed in a good book while traveling that nourishes my mind and soul.
So pack up your beach bag, and don’t forget to bring a good book. Listed in no particular order
- Circe: Madeline Miller
This book melds multiple Greek myths into the story of Circe, daughter of Greek God Helios, on her journey being banned to a remote island. Share in her adventures, heartbreak and love. Circe is a New York Times best seller that touches on feminist themes.
2. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue: V.E Schawb
This book follows the immortal life of Addie LaRue, a young French girl who makes a deal with the devil, to be immortal. Set in 1700s France as well as present day New York City, this book will keep you hooked. I hardly put it down until I was done.
3. The Alchemist: Paulo Coehlo
“when you really want something to happen, the whole universe will conspire so that your wish comes true” is the core of the novel’s thinking. Follow a young man on his journey to find buried treasure in the Egyptian pyramids, this book was written in 1988 by Brazillian author, who wrote this book in 2 weeks. The ultimate travel and self help novel.
4. Greenlights: Matthew McConaughey
This book is a memoir, written by famous actor, and based on excerpts from journals he started when younger. It is a motivating book of saying yes to the green lights that come up in life and where you can go if you do. Told in a collection of shorter stories, this book is irreverent and humorous and will have you turning pages until the end.
5. World Travel: An Irreverent Guide: Anthony Bourdain and Laurie Woolever
Beloved travel host Anthony Bourdain travels the world. Join him as he guides us through his favorite destinations. From Buenos Aires to New York City. Written in his own words, what to see, do eat and experience, as well as what to avoid.
I just loved Anthony Bourdain and his wit, and frank way of speaking. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
6. Beach Read: Emily Henry
Emily Henry is a romance author, who writes lighthearted novels. This is no exception. When 2 down on their luck authors find themselves renting beach houses next to each other, they challenge each other to write in each others genre’s. A rom-com ensues in the following pages. An easy read for when you want something less serious.
7. A Walk In the Woods: Bill Bryson
Travel writer Bill Bryson tells us the story of his journey hiking the 2,100 mile long Appalachian Trail. Infusing his writing with hilarious observations of the people he encounters, as well as instilling in us a love for nature.
8. The Last Thing He Told Me: Laura Dave
Her husband leaves a note “protect her” then disappears. Follow along as Hannah searches for her husband of one year, and takes over care of his 16 year old daughter. It is a book of the challenges of being a step parent, as well as a good old mystery adventure. I couldn’t put this one down.
9. The Guncle: Steven Rowley
About a former Hollywood actor who winds up taking care of his niece and nephew after a family tragedy. Both heartwarming and funny, Rowley creates deeply likeable characters.
10. Braiding SweetGrass: Robin Wall Kimmerer
This is a non fiction book on the Potawatomi culture of reciprocal relationships between humans and the land. Written in 2013, 5 essays are braided together to show us that indigenous knowledge and western science can co-exist. This is a beautifully written book that will make you want to get out in nature.
I just love a good book on vacation. It has the power to transport you into another realm, and stimulate your mind. For Must have Travel Apps see my post here
Happy Reading!
-Beck
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