These five books will provide you with the warmth and comfort that you need on days when nothing seems to be quite right.
by Julia Migné
Some days it can be hard to get out of bed or see the positive in anything around us. Overcoming the doom and gloom then takes a lot of effort; sometimes reading about other people’s struggles can help us to reframe the situation we feel trapped in.
If you are having one of those days, grab a warm blanket and a cup of tea. We’ve got you covered with the perfect selection of books.
Rising Strong – Brené Brown
Author of four #1 New York Times bestsellers, Dr Brown uses her passion for storytelling to share with the world her research findings on courage, vulnerability, shame and empathy. In Rising Strong, she tackles the difficulty of getting back up after failing.
“People who wade into discomfort and vulnerability and tell the truth about these stories are the real badasses.”
Through stories and anecdotes from her own life and the lives of others, she highlights the importance of processing why things might have gone wrong and being brave enough to write ‘a daring new ending’.
Dear Stranger – Various
Dear Stranger is a touching collection of letters from authors and ambassadors of the mental health charity Mind.
Bravingly honest and inspiring, these letters represent an attempt to put a finger on what happiness truly represents. Addressing strangers, the authors reveal themselves and share with us their struggles with depression and their vision of what being truly happy means.
Sometimes sad but always uplifting, this collection of letters will warm your heart and make you reconsider what happiness might actually look like in your everyday life.
“We spend years and years as slaves to the past and slaves to the future. Only a love of the present – no matter how fleeting, no matter how modest – can set us free. And give us the happiness we all deserve.” – Tony Parsons
Wonder – R. J. Palacio
Wonder is definitely one of those books that stays with you for a while after you read it. The story of this little boy who won’t describe himself because “whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse,” is an absolute gem.
Beautiful and poignant, Wonder touches on important topics such as friendship and family and takes the reader through a storm of emotions.
From tears to waves of laughter, this book will make you rethink what bravery really is about. Have a box of tissues nearby though, you’re likely to need some.
Happy – Fearne Cotton
English television and radio presenter, Fearne Cotton, opens up about her depression in her book Happy. Known for being bubbly and always smiling, Fearne reveals her struggle with the disease and offers practical ways of finding joy every day.
“This book is a way to release what’s going on inside your head and to keep heading towards the good stuff.”
This heartwarming book is a mix of her personal experiences, interviews with health experts and activities to help you unlock your inner happiness. Colourful and beautifully designed, Happy is a wave of fresh air and a delightful read.
The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes – Ruth Hogan
The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes tackles the difficult topic of grieving a lost child. The book follows the evolution of Masha, a “once spirited, independent woman with a rebellious streak” whose life has been changed forever due to a tragic accident.
Unable to forgive herself for the loss of her son, Masha is struggling to move on with her life.
Deeply moving, this book takes us through a rich palette of emotions and portrays the subtle nuances of grief. And, how difficult it can be to finally let go.
Julia Migné is a multimedia journalist and wildlife photographer specialising in environmental issues and odd hobbies. She has written for Africa Geographic and BBC Wildlife among others. An endless traveller, she swears that she would visit one country for each letter of the alphabet.