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Last year around this time, I was going through some shit, to put it delicately.
Graphic by Cristina Cianci
I needed an escape.
Still, I grimaced at all the book suggestions I found that were remotely feel-goodmy misery needed company.
The book didnt magically lift me out of my slump; thats not howdepressionsituational or clinicalworks.
It did, however, make me feel less alone in what I was going through.
It didn’t tell me to stop being upset or start thinking about something else.
Instead, it helped me find comfort in knowing my feelings werent weird or surprising or outrageously abnormal.
And perhaps most especially, they werent permanent.
Thats themagic of books, isnt it?
it’s possible for you to find a sense of camaraderie in the author or the characters.
But I’m not the only one who has relied on comfort of the literary variety.
The last time I binge-read those books, I was going through a really bad breakup.
The writing is so good and the characters are written so well that they make you feel less lonely.
It gave me hope that eventually I would come across people who Id become friends with.
It made me feel like Im not alone.
(Me Talk Pretty One Dayis my favorite.)
His humor is personal and vulnerable.
The way he writes about his life, even the sad or humiliating, is deeply, touchingly funny.
The author boldly shares their own story and the challenges that come with being feminine.
It’s very relatable and it’s a beautiful reminder that I’m never alone.
His story is pretty incredible too.
Lindsey L., 23
The Lord of the Rings seriesby J.R.R.
Tolkien
When I was in high school, I had severe depression.
Even when hes surrounded by others, he feels isolated.
I was experiencing a huge change in my life, having to start all over.
Ive never loved reading, but when I picked this book up I couldnt put it down.
Sincero uses a personal story that is relatable and brings coping methods to life.
After reading this book, I stopped the self-hate and started to get my life in check.
I started working out and eating right.
It definitely changed my life.
Few books have left me with chills as deep as this one.
Its a great read for anyone in a relationship or getting over one.
Virginia H., 30
Buy it here:Barnes & Noble; $13
The Outsidersby S.E.
I didnt feel alone while reading this novel; these characters became my friends and my brothers.
The main character, Aza, has severe obsessive-compulsive disorder, and I have frequent OCD tendencies.
The young woman protagonist is so strong and gutsy and inspiringit always makes me feel hopeful.
Carolyn K., 32
Buy it here:Barnes & Noble; $10
