It’s Read Across America day and this is a holiday I can get behind. I’m an avid reader and I consume books. And almost all types. So I thought to celebrate I’d list out a few of my favorites.

Harry Potter by JK Rowling – Literally my favorite series of all time. I honestly could not tell you how many times I have read them. From the characters, to the world, to the plot I love it. Every time. The kids and I did the audiobooks and let me tell you, Jim Dale is amazing! 10/10 would recommend every single time.

Scrappy Little Nobody by Anna Kendrick – An adorable autobiographical-esque book from one of my favorite actresses. I was literally laughing out loud through the whole thing. Full of fun anecdotes and stories, its a fun, laid-back read.

Talking as Fast as I Can by Lauren Graham – If you like me love Gilmore Girls this is a must read. Or if you’re a Parenthood fan. Lauren Graham’s writing style is wonderful. It truly feels like you’re having a conversation with her. And all the behind-the-scenes stories are fantastic.

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes – Now, to be totally honest, I still stuggle with the ending of this. That’s all I say and when you read it and want to discuss, I’d love to. But its such a different and interesting story. Lou may be one of my favorite characters ever. She’s simply delightful. I definitely would say read the book before the movie, because, obviously, it’s better (although Emilia Clarke is too die for #girlcrush). And again, because real talk, I did not like the sequel. There’s a third book out that I haven’t read yet but I hear good things, so make of that what you will.

The Outsiders by SE Hinton – ahhh, The Outsiders. The first book I loved. This is truly the book that made me fall in love with reading. The characters are so distinct and fully fleshed out. Caleb is reading this for school now and (though he won’t admit it because he pretends to hate reading), he’s enjoying it. Stay golden, Ponyboy. PS – how dreamy is Rob Lowe in the movie? *sigh*

Uninvited Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely by Lysa TerKeurst – this is what I am currently reading and it is speaking to my soul so much. I got this off the recommendation of another blogger, Megan at Bloom {Into Beautiful} and I’m so glad I did. Jesus asked Lysa to write this book just for me.

Falling Up by Leslie Odom Jr. – if you know me, you’ll know I bought this book because Hamilton, obvi, but it turned out to be a great read. Very motivational. I gained so much insight reading Leslie’s stories of successes and failures.

The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis – Another classic story that I love sharing with the kiddos. These are a little harder for them to read on their own, the language is very old English, but I love reading it with them. Aslan is one of the greatest characters of all time. They all include so much to learn about right and wrong. There are two ways to read these; the order in which they were written (Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe, Prince Caspian, Dawn Treader, Silver Chair, Horse and His Boy, Magician’s Nephew, then Last Battle) or chronologically (Magician’s Nephew, Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe, Horse and His Boy, Prince Caspian, Dawn Treader, Silver Chair, Last Battle). I prefer chronologically but you do you.

These are just a few personal favorites, I’ve read so many more but these are just my go-to recommendations.

And because I’m fair here’s a few I DO NOT recommend :

• The Fate of the Tearling series – Loved the first two but the ending is the worst ever. Full stop.
• Girl, Wash Your Face – as much as I wanted to like this book I couldn’t. The whole thing read like one big (not so) humble brag to me.
• Maze Runner – again, loved this first half, hated the ending.
• Wicked – love the play, hated the book. Took me forever to get through it.

As far as reading with the kids (aside from the others I mentioned) we love Percy Jackson, Anne of Green Gables, The Giver, and Kingdom Keepers.

What are y’all reading right now? What’s your favorite book? Leave me a comment so we can discuss.

Outfit details listed here : sweatshirt , glasses , shoes (jeans are old, sorry)

Happy Reading and All the Love,

Kristina