Today I want to share five books that have absolutely brightened my life this year. These are the books I’ve flown through this year, hardly able to set them down, stop turning the pages, and stop thinking about them long after the final chapter. Which means, I think you might like them, too! I’m a big non-fiction girlie. Memoirs, biographies, the behind-the-scenes making-ofs—sign me up. If you, too, like this genre, you’ll may find some gems below. Although, there is an incredible novel on this list I’m still thinking about months later.

I’m always looking for my next read, so drop me a comment and let me know what I should pick up next!

001. The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop 

Yes, I am obsessed with Gilmore Girls (who isn’t tbh). When I saw this memoir coming out last fall, I immediately added it to my Christmas wish list. Santa (AKA my sweet husband) came through. This book did not disappoint. To read of the making of both Emily Gilmore and the actress behind Emily Gilmore was fascinating. Did you know Kelly Bishop was not only one of the original performances in Broadway’s A Chorus Line, but part of the story was actually based on her life? I didn’t. But I’m better for it now. 

002. The Wedding People by Alison Espach

For my fiction-loving friends, you can’t miss this one. The main character is absolutely such a gem… the kind of character you want to become friends with. It’s a beautiful exploration of working through depression and becoming ones fullest self, which, is right up my alley. I thought about this book and main character long after the last page, and to me, that’s the true marking of a great story. 

003. Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz 

All I can say about this book is WOW. I was left speechless with my jaw on the floor so many times throughout this memoir. It shook me to my core. I have a strange fascination with cults and the psychology of the manipulation that gets people to join in (we are all susceptible, I’ve learned). The fact Joy was in a cult while working on One Tree Hill is pretty wild. This story highlights that even the most subtle twisting of scripture and Christian ideology can end up in the most damaging place. This is a book I will be thinking about for years and years. 

004. Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten 

I must say—I knew little to nothing about Ina before this read, other than her fabulous coconut cake recipe. This was an inspiring story of how staying true to your dreams and championing yourself can not only pay off, but help you stay true to yourself along the way. And it’s worth noting there were countless times I wanted to stop what I was doing and throw a dinner party while reading this book, ha! It was just that good (and what can I say, I love a good dinner party). I 10/10 recommend this book, especially for the dreamers and doers. 

005. Mountains of Spices by Hannah Hurnard

This was an urgent reco from a friend who knew I would absolutely adore Hannah’s work. She was right. This is different from almost anything I’ve ever read before. It’s an allegory of the fruits of the Spirit and the nine spices mentioned in Song of Solomon. From page one, this book cut straight to my heart. It’s so easy to identify with both Mrs. Valiant and Mrs. Dismal Forebodings… we are all so human. This is a must-read for my Christian friends… I promise it will bring the sparkle back to your faith and kindle a closer-knit relationship with your Heavenly Father thanks to the beautiful storytelling.

What should I read next?! Comment below with your latest recs! xo

P.S. If you liked this post, I think you’d also really How to Read/Write/Create More.