Five Book Recommendations For Social Distancing

I used to complain about how there was never enough time in the day to read. With such a jam-packed schedule, reading always slipped through the cracks. But now that I am practicing social distancing, there is an infinite amount of time to read. The best thing about living in the digital age is how easy it is to download e-books. No need to risk your life for a copy of “Where The Crawdads Sing.” The Edit team loves to read,  so if you are wondering what to read this week here are our suggestions. You could even start a virtual book club with your friends this week to stay connected and be held accountable. Check out our recommended reading below!

1. Mellanie Perez, Writer

“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens

This novel tells the story of Kya Clark, a young girl who essentially raises herself in a marsh of North Carolina from the time she was six years old. Her entire family leaves her — her mother, all her siblings and, eventually, even her dad — running away from a troubled and abusive family dynamic. From there, the story simply blossoms into something beautiful. Kya becomes a woman, and her story is weaved with all those quintessential experiences of first love, betrayal, hope and longing. That is until she is a young adult when she gets accused of a crime. Part murder mystery and part coming-of-age story, this novel made me relive that painful, yet beautiful, hope of growing up, and I totally fell in love with her story. Maybe now that the world seems like a meager place, and most of us are holed up inside and spending a lot of time alone, I identify most with Kya, who had to face most of growing up on her own. Also, mega stars for the beautiful, well-written prose and well-developed characters.

2. Iman Balagam, Writer 

“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

Any story that describes old Hollywood at its most glamorous works like catnip for me. This novel follows aging movie starlet Evelyn Hugo, who decides to write a tell-all book about her scandalous and mysterious past. She divulges details about what it was like coming to Los Angeles in the 1950s, how she became a famous actress and the seven husbands she had along the way. That’s right, seven husbands. You will not be able to put this sexy, yet heartbreaking, story about true love and the price of fame. Everyone raved about “Daisy Jones and the Six” (myself included) but this is Taylor Jenkins Reid’s true crown jewel. 

3. Sofia Medina, Social Media Manager

“You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life” by Jen Sincero

A self-help book that will not have you running for the hills! I have read and listened to this book on audiotape numerous times when I am feeling down, low on myself or just need an overall pick-me-up. Especially during these times of uncertainty, anxiety and fear, I think it is important for us to stay grounded and not forget how capable we truly are. A refreshing take on manifesting what you want out of life and how to do so, with positive affirmations along with hilarious anecdotes and pieces of advice to make you feel like you are not alone and are so much more capable than you give yourself credit for! 

4. Lauren Hitzhusen, Fact-Checker & Proofreader

The “Selection” series by Kiera Cass 

I love a ton of different book genres, but if I am stuck inside because of a pandemic, I want the literary equivalent of junk food that will take my mind off of the chaos outside. Enter: The “Selection” series by Kiera Cass. Perfect for fans of “The Bachelor” and “The Hunger Games,” this YA series follows America Singer as she competes with 35 other girls to win the heart of Prince Maxon. It is a fun and a little predictable nugget of post-apocalyptic YA goodness. The series is overall a quick read (only three main books, but there are two off-shoots and a handful of associated novellas, if you find you can’t get enough of the country of Illéa!) and I found that once I started reading about America and the other 35 girls competing, I couldn’t put the books down. 

5. Mylan Torres, Creative Producer

“Daisy Jones & The Six: A Novel” by Taylor Reid Jenkins

If you have ever seen VH1’s “Behind the Music,” this book is exactly like that. It reads more like a script than a book, which can be a turnoff for some, but I think it really works here. The format helps you immerse yourself in the story and connect with all the characters. The book depicts the rise and dissolution of a fictional rock band in the ‘70s — the height of rock ‘n roll if you will. It touches on sex, drugs, addiction and everything you would normally expect to see during that time period, but in such a genuine way that does not glamorize the seriousness of the topics. However, what I love most about the story are the strong female characters that you wouldn’t normally see portrayed in the music industry, and how they each assert themselves in this male-dominated space. I definitely recommend reading this before Amazon Studios releases the series. You will not regret it.

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