The books I read July – September (2018)

Well, this quarter was a million times more successful than lasts! I am actually super proud of how much I managed to read and the variety I’ve included. What have you all read? Any book suggestions? (As per usual I have featured some affiliate links, the money I make goes towards my accessibility needs, at present I am saving for a walker/wheelchair.)

 

• After You by Jojo Moyes – This was a strange one for me. Initially, I despised it – I honestly thought I wouldn’t finish it. But by the end I adored it, and the characters and I was crying along with it. I almost wonder if there was an intention to make the initial part of the book ‘unlikeable’. Who knows? But honestly, I recommend it! And I’m excited to read new next (and I believe final) book in the series. 
• Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte – My first classic of the year (and perhaps to be my only one!). It was truly beautiful and I understand the hype and adoration around it and I am very proud I’ve finally completed it. Probably not a beginner classics novel but for anyone who’s read a few I would definitely recommend it.
• Big Bones by Laura Dockrill – One of the best novels I’ve ever read – I wouldn’t be surprised if it was my top book of the year! A truly beautiful, inspiring storyline and one I want every single individual to read especially any future children I may have.
• Ava and the Big Ouch by Lucy Bell*–  I received this novel in exchange for an honest review. I enjoy reading children’s stories just for enjoyment but also to keep an eye out for my own, or my friends, future little ones. Ava and the Big Ouch was super cute, suitable for all genders and highlighted the importance of talking about feelings and supporting and getting support from friends. It had a lot of emotional development within it and seemed very intelligently written for young children. Definitely, the sort of book I look out for.
• Good Night stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli & Francesca Cavallo – I listened to the audiobook and loved it. Much to the cliche of the title I did listen to a few stories before bed any night and they were diverse and inspiring – something everyone should read. I’m keen to make physical purchases of this (and a male version if they have them) for perfect coffee table books.
• The Star in the Christmas Play by Lynne Marie* – Really beautiful story about how everyone has a place and can fit in. Loved the Christmas theme and the safari animals featured.
• Grafitti by Savannah Brown – A beautiful anthology. Easily relatable. I adored the writing style and I’m really keen to read her upcoming novel.
• Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling – I don’t need words really, do I? I haven’t re-read the books in physical copy for a while so I thought it was time for the yearly re-read.
• Am I Ugly by Michelle Elman – Incredible. Raw. Honest. Painful. Beautiful. I sobbed through the last two chapters. I know I’ll be re-reading this many times in my life. Infinitely grateful this book exists.
• Hannah Green and her Unfeasibly Mundane Existence by Michael Marshall Smith* – Interesting – not my usual book and so far from what I was expecting but surprisingly enjoyable. At times overcomplicated, unnecessarily so, though perhaps that’s because I suffer from brain fog? But it did keep me relatively gripped and intrigued. I’d be keen to listen to an audiobook version.
• The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger – I read this when I was younger but got so much more out of this re-read. Such a clever novel with so much depth and detail. Highly highly recommend.
• Amanda’s Wedding by Jenny Colgan* – Felt like an adult Sophie Kinsella novel – really enjoyed it!
• This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay – This book. Oh god, this book. I just finished it. It was incredible. One that will stay with me. One where I sat for a good 5 minutes with glistening eyes staring at the last page. So real. So heartbreaking. My dream career as an adult is paediatric nursing – with my health that isn’t possible – but with that dream, alongside all the help I need and have from the NHS, has meant medicine sticks with me. The idea of being a doctor draws me in. And the sadness of the dire situation with the NHS breaks my heart. Read this book. It’s raw, funny, painful and powerful. I haven’t found one like it for some time.

 

*I received this novel from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review