Four books worth reading
- “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur – This small book of poetry contains plenty of powerful material. Self love quotes and reassurances of healing after heartbreak makes this an incredible read. Simple sketches are paired with every poem, reminding the reader that they are a force to be reckoned with. While the pain of Kaur’s past shows throughout the book, it soon becomes evident that the hardships of what she went through seems similar to many other women who have no understanding of how to love themselves. She speaks of how she’s been dictated by others her entire life, never taking the time to address what she really craved in life. Kaur talks of how she overcame the difficulties of making a voice for herself as a person and as a feminist, shouting whispers on paper that women are to be cherished. She reminds us to remain soft, but strong, telling us that taking time to heal will never be a burden. Developing differently from one another is what makes us unique. Being gentle towards ourselves will never cause our heart to ache, it will only make it secure around the self love that you deserve.
- “A List of Cages” by Robin Roe – Julian was young when his parents were killed. Once a wistful child who was known for having an imagination was in hysteria after his parents were killed in a car accident. His mother was a musician, while his father was an artist. His life was filled with joy and acceptance from people who were as colorful as he was. This novel perfectly depicts how it’s okay to not be okay, and that overcoming hardships are possible.
- “Our Numbered Days” by Neil Hilborn – Although this small paperback of poetry is comparable to “Milk and Honey,” “Our Numbered Days” contains stunning words that describes how unfair life is going to be. Hilborn entwines the bad moments with the good, shouting to the readers that being alive can sometimes be painful. He tells you what it’s like to live with a mental illness, how there’s always going to be the potential of it robbing you of almost everything you’ve got. But Hilborn also recounts the things that convinced him to stay — hazelnut creamer mixed into freshly brewed coffee, books that he hasn’t had yet to read, the quaintness of washing dishes with your favorite album on in the background, and the warmth of a lover. He tries to explain that it’s not going to get easier, but instead of giving up, you have to remember that it’s worth it.
- “I’ll Give You the Sun” by Jandy Nelson – A novel that hasn’t been given the recognition it truly deserves, “I’ll Give You the Sun” looks into the life of Noah and Jude Sweetwine, a set of twins whose bond is practically unbreakable. Throughout the book, their story is told from the perspective of 14-year old Noah, while the rest is explained by an adult nearing Jude. While both have a passion for visual arts, it is Noah that has a true talent for creating. Jude recognizes this and becomes jealous. When a potential position at an art school is up for grabs, the pair compete for the spot. Throughout the process of building each of their portfolios, they endure first love, heartbreak, and changes that will impact them not only as people, but as artists.
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