In the age of digital entertainment, books are the last option for escaping boredom.
Books hold a much better purpose than just educating ourselves. They can be used as an escapism tool during our time of self-isolation. In this period of which our homes may be too loud, or for some too quiet, opening a book you may have had on your to-be-read list for far too long is just what our crowded minds need. Primarily fantasy and contemporary novels are the perfect genres to find entertainment when Netflix and Disney+ are just not enough.
Fantasy:
Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J Maas
Throne of Glass by Sarah J Mass is a young adult fantasy series that follows the journey of Celaena Sardothien, who is a teenage assassin in a corrupt kingdom with twists, turns, and romance after every chapter. This six-book series gets better and better with readers falling in love with the characters and the author all at once.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is an adventure that keeps you glued to the pages. The Night Circus, or Le Cirque des Rêves, is a mysterious circus that arrives without warning and is opened only, as the title explains, at night. Set in the late 19th century, readers are entranced by not only the circus’ mysterious magic, but by the unknown competition between two young magicians where only one must be left standing at the end.
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J Maas
The first book in this series, titled A Court of Thorns and Roses, is a beauty and the beast retelling with faerie lore. The main protagonist Feyre gets thrust into magical lands and fae people after unknowingly killing one. If you like a saucy romantic read, this one is the perfect read. Also, I recommend having the second book handy because this series is definitely one you are going to want to binge!
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
If you haven’t heard about this series, then you’re seriously living under a rock. Perfect for escaping into a magical world, the Harry Potter series is one that will bring out your childhood and imagination. This series is about a young wizard named Harry Potter who goes through different adventures and tribulations as he learns his life isn’t so simple as it seemed.
Contemporary:
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
For those who are currently attending higher education, this novel is the epidemy of relatable. This contemporary novel is a story of two twin sisters focusing on Cath’s transition from being comfortable with her sister always at her side, to transitioning to college alone as an introvert who thrives in her internet and book world. This novel is all about coping with new situations and finding new friends that are there for you in tough times.
This is what happy looks like by Jennifer E. Smith
Love movies such as LOL and The Last Song? Well this is the type of book to get you in those same summer-love emotions. When a typo from a teenage superstar leads to a small-town girl about a pet pig, it sparks a long-time email friendship. With the small-town girl, Ellie, finds out that her mystery email friend is superstar Graham Larkin, normality in her life spiral out of control. This summer romance novel between two different worlds is one that is relatable with the troubles of daily life for these characters and unexpected changes that come with them.
Just one day by Gayle Forman
If you have read any of Gayle Forman’s other novels, then this read is a must while in self-isolation. This novel is a journey of self-discovery alongside true love. While on a study abroad trip to Paris, Allyson spends an incredible day with a Dutch actor named Willem De Ruiter who sparks a flame in her life. Following this day, she spends the next year evaluating the change that was brought inside her that leads to a self-discovery that leads her to a life changing path.
Again, But Better by Christine Riccio
Like Rainbow Rowell’s novel, Again, But Better is a story where a shy college student time travels to a second chance at life and romance. When Shane goes to travel abroad in London, she sees this as an opportunity to do college right. A.K.A. be more social, have no regrets in the end, and pursue her real passion which is writing. But this is easier said than done, as she steps outside of her comfort bubble, self-doubt causes her to feel her life is falling apart. As the reader comes to find out, with courage and self-confidence the possibilities for your life are endless.