5 Non-Fiction Books I’ve Enjoyed Reading

I love books. I love the power of them. It provides access to information, teachings, and entry into other people’s worlds. One can gather insights from different experts, cultures from around the world and discover something completely new. Consider this a love letter to the books I’ve read so far on my journey. I advocate for reading more (audio books are totally encouraged!) and making reading sexy again ;)

Here are some books I’ve enjoyed reading:

1. The Subtle Art of Not Giving AF by Mark Manson

My Thoughts: This is one of those oldies but a goodie. I was an avid reader of Mark Manson’s blog and when this book came out, the title hit a chord with me. It is a constant reminder that life goes sideways often and encouraged different perspectives when it does. Its okay to not be okay. This one a good one to pick up every couple of years.

2. Atomic Habits by James Clear

My Thoughts: The framework of improving little by little over time is simple to understand. He shares practical applications of the concept and it really encourages progress over perfection. It took picking up the book a second time for me to get into it but once I did, the pages started turning on its own.

3. Becoming by Michelle Obama

My Thoughts: I am going to admit that before reading this book, I was not a big fan of Obama nor did I read much of what was happening when his name appeared in the news. I did not know too much about him or Michelle Obama, and I am almost appreciative that I did not because I was able to pick up this book with an open mind. Her stories were full of resilience, grounded in thoughtfulness, and ultimately, inspires me as a minority to keep fighting the good fight.

4. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk

My Thoughts: This one is a more intense read. I am going to be very upfront about that because the first few pages moved me to tears but it did not stop me from getting through the whole book. This is one of those reads I recommend going slow so the information can be processed. It provides a lot of insight into trauma and how parts of us can store or react to it. As someone who has experienced unspeakable abuse, it gave me hope and understanding that everyone’s experience is unique.

5. Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown

My Thoughts: It seems like I have saved one of my favourites for last. I was lucky enough to own Atlas of the Heart in hardcover so I could appreciate the beauty of the artwork. I have been a fan of Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability, shame, and courageous leadership and how she can communicate her work without losing my interest. As I have written about my struggles with understanding feelings, this is the book I recommend to anyone who would like to learn more about emotions. She breaks down each one very carefully and the differences between feelings that are similar yet different like jealousy and envy. Being able to feel is natural and the thing that connects us all.