It’s been a week since I have sat at home and maintained social distancing. TBH, it’s been a struggle because I find it so hard to be stuck in the same place. A change of surroundings is needed. However, safety comes first, especially now that COVID-19 is a threat globally. We all have to learn how to occupy ourselves while self-isolating. And, scrolling through Instagram isn’t the best option when you want a break from all the Coronavirus news. There are several activities to do such as cleaning your closet, binge-watching a series, learning new recipes or even reading a book! Ever since digital media has taken over, I can’t remember the last time I read a book. In fact, I miss the touch and smell of books. Also, it’s a good break when you just want to switch off from technology, right? So, my plan for the weekend is to binge-read. I personally love reading crime fiction but here’s a list of recommended books to read, all of different genres.
1. If Tomorrow Comes By Sidney Sheldon
Sidney Sheldon is one of my favourite novelists. If you love crime fiction, If Tomorrow Comes is a must-read. The protagonist who leads an ordinary life gets framed by a Mafia and sets on a path to seek vengeance, but plot twist, she turns into a con artist. That’s all I can reveal so far but all I can say is that I finished this book in two days, and later went on to read part two (Chasing Tomorrow) and three (Reckless).
2. For One More Day By Mitch Albom
This was the first book I read by the author and highly recommend it. For One More Day is a beautiful story about the relationship between a mother and son, one that lasts a lifetime. It is about a man who becomes unconscious, but wakes up and lives a day with his mum who is no more. The novel brings in the importance of family and talks about the opportunities we miss. It makes you wonder what you would do if you could spend just one more day with someone you lost.
3. A Fine Balance By Rohinton Mistry
A Fine Balance is a story that highlights events that took place between post Independence of India in 1947 and the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi’s assassination. The lives of four protagonists- Dina Dalal, a Parsi widow, Ishwar and Omprakash Darji, and a student Maneck Kohlah meet each other unexpectedly. Mistry highlights the crucial events and struggles that occurred during this time period in each character’s lives, keeping you hooked onto their story and making you turn each page with eagerness.
4. The Note By Zoë Folbigg
The Note is a love story inspired by Zoe’s life events of how she met her husband. The lead character, Maya falls for a stranger who boards the same train with her to London. However, this man who she believes is “The One” is always lost in his books and doesn’t notice her. She finally finds the courage to give him a note asking him out on a date. Now, you’ll obviously have to read the book to find out what happens. But the book basically reminds all of us that taking a chance can change everything.
5. HOW TO BE A BAWSE: A Guide to Conquering Life By Lilly Singh
YouTube star, Lilly Singh urges her readers to be a bawse of their own life that is, exude confidence, hustle non-stop and attain their goals. She shares funny, but honest experiences from her own life but they all prove that success doesn’t come without hard work, persistence, and determination. If you need some motivation for something as small as following a good sleeping schedule to something as big as kickstarting a business, this book is a must-read.
6. The Legend Of Lakshmi Prasad By Twinkle Khanna
The Legend Of Lakshmi Prasad is a collection of four short stories. The central theme is feminism and the protagonist of each story is seen breaking stereotypes. Twinkle has created these stories simply but with a sense of wit, something that all her readers enjoy. The first story opens with Lakshmi Prasad, a 17-year-old girl whose aim is to ensure every girl in the village gets freedom and independence. It is followed by three more tales, with women fighting against stereotypical norms. This one’s a good read for sure and I would recommend it to be on your list.
You’ll surely be engrossed in these gripping stories. Which book seems more interesting to you? Let me know in the comments below.
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