Hi
I am a college student home from school for the summer in desperate need of a good book. I have been in a slump when it comes to reading for years now, I have tried time and time again to get back into it but I just can’t find anything that keeps me interested. I used to read nonstop and I want that back.
My requirements are simple: it needs to be well written, captivating, and of a decent length (>100 pages). Also not a huge fan of sci fi, horror, romance and murder mystery genres. And oh my god please do not recommend smut.
I also would prefer that the book is not super depressing or disturbing. I understand that life and good stories sometimes involve these themes, but I just need something to pick me up a little while I am grieving the end of my freshman year and all of my college friends now back home hundreds of miles away.
Preferably I would like something that will give me a new perspective on life, really make me think. I love to think. TIA
by SwitchSubstantial958
1 Comment
Abigail by Magda Szabo is definitely a bit larger than what you’re after at 300~ pages but its a very charming read that is not completely taxing. It’s got its emotional moments but is also a slice of life that leaves you feeling warm.
As for something a bit shorter, I know you don’t like science fiction but Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers is a very short read and is greatly uplifting. It doesnt go into any heavy science fiction themes if you’re concerned about that but its a pleasant look at an alternative Earth.
I struggled with getting back into reading since dropping it at 14 and picking it up at 21 so I totally get how hard it is to feel like you can be captured by a book. What personally worked to help my habit was tbh, dropping my standards a bit. Reading is a skill so I went to really consumable, almost pulp fiction just so I could tick it off and get my brain used to being still again. I personally went with popular romance because they’re honestly such easy reads, even though I am not personally a romance fan. If you’re open to it, that’s an option! Otherwise, graphic novels could also be a good start 🙂
Good luck!