Another year has drawn to a close which means another year of good reads. Last year I read 50 books and this year I was hoping to keep up with this standard. While 2021 was a lot busier than 2020, thanks to audiobooks, I reached 50 again. Technically my goal was 52, but we don't need to talk about that.

Here are some of my favorite reads from the second half of 2021:

Eat a Peach

-David Chang

This was one of my most recent reads that I thoroughly enjoyed. I am embarrassed to admit I had no idea who David Chang was before I picked up this book and did not know it was a memoir. I often pick up books that are supposed to be good and I like reading them without any expectations. After reading, I am grateful to experience his vulnerability and drive. I now want to continue learning about the restaurant industry as the business side was particularly interesting considering the major risks involved. I also now want to go to a David Chang restaurant!

They Both Die at the End

-Adam Silvera

I read this book for the Girls Who Read Club at my college (yes, I am in a book club and it rocks). While this was not my favorite book of the year and it felt a little bit too young adult, it was quick and enjoyable. It was nice to read an engaging read that was not too complex, but still had thoughtful nuggets of introspection. It follows two boys in a sci-fi world where they are called on the day that they will die with a warning. It includes themes of how to really live and to hold tight to those you love, but it was not too cheesy or sad. A great balance!

For One More Day

-Mitch Albom

I wanted to write a recap about this book, but my memory is fading. I remember something about baseball... and a mother-son relationship? Instead of giving false information, I will simply recommend any work by Mitch Albom. I cannot believe this is my first book of his instead of some of the more popular ones, but I love the writing style. Every page is thought-provoking and there is no nonsense extra fluff. Highly recommend!

Writers and Lovers

-Lily King

For the first 30 pages, I wasn't sure about this book. I couldn't find the direction or important characters yet. But as I kept going, I fell in love! The dynamic characters were real, imperfect, and engaging. I connect with the lead's uncertainty about her writing career and future.

Her reflection led to my own: What do I want? vs. What is hypothetically best for me? Sometimes these two questions do not align with the same answers, especially in love. This book warmed my heart and brought me to life.

Honorable mentions that I'm too lazy to write about:

- Bright Burning Things by Lisa Harding

-To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf

-Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

-People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

Here's to all the reads 2022 may bring!

x fight on