My Fave Reads: for Vacay, Self Help, Memoirs + More!
Popular Books for 20 - 30 yr old Women: Taylor Jenkins Reid + Shari Lapena
Inspirational Female Authors and Good Beach Reads
I’ll be the first to admit I’m not reading as much as I want to be, but over the last few years I have managed to read a decent amount of books that were either super entertaining, beyond inspiring, or pushed self reflection. Since I’ve received a lot of book rec requests (say that 3x fast!) I figured I would put everything in one place; I’ll be updating as I finish new books so there’s always one place to reference.
#1 recommendation: Michelle Obama’s Book: BECOMING. Why? It’s extremely insightful - learning about Michelle’s childhood and her and Barack’s relationship gave me a whole new level of respect for them individually and as a couple. Whether you have zero knowledge of politics or listen to NPR 24/7 - there’s so much to take away from her first hand knowledge of campaigning for the presidency and living in the white house. I walked away feeling empowered as a female that it is possible to build an incredible career AND to be a devoted wife and mother. It was such an inspiring read and I was so sad when it was all over.
FAVE FICTION READS
Taylor Jenkins Reid is a fiction author I feel in love with during my honeymoon - legit read 3 of her books in 4 days! I suggest starting with The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (it’s the best!). They are all easy beach reads - think modern chic lit, crazy romances, + thrilling adventures.
Taylor Jenkins Reid Books
Are you a suspense kind of gal? Then Shari Lapena is just up your ally. The Couple Next Door + A Stranger in The House had me on the edge of my seat and also made me question ALL of my relationships (hah - not sure if that’s a good thing but definitely means it was impactful!)
Shari Lapena Books
When it comes to authors in general, I’m super loyal. If I like one book by someone I typically end up reading all of their work before moving on to someone new. In my early-mid 20s I spent a lot of time reading Emily Giffin + Sophie Kinsella (Confessions of a Shopaholic) - they are little “fluffier” but definitely great beach reads.
FAVE NON-FICTION READS
If you’re looking to live your best life and become your best self, look no further then my girl Jen Sincero. I attribute a lot of the career pivots and successes over the past 4 -5 years to her book You Are A Bad Ass and subsequent book You Are A Bad Ass with Money. They each give you step by step instructions on how to get out of your own head and create the life you want. I cannot recommend them enough. Side not (sort of): she recently came out with a 3rd book called You Are A Bad Ass Everyday that I think totally missed the mark. It felt like a bunch of leftover notes that didn’t make the cut for the first two books that she just put together and called book three.
Jen Sincero Books
Another great girl power book is In the Company of Women. It’s more of a coffee table kind of book with inspiration and advice from over 100 makers, artists, and entrepreneurs. This one also makes a GREAT gift!
I’m currently reading the non-fiction book Contagious and learning SO much. If you work in marketing or just happen to have an interest on how and why things go viral, this is the book for you.
Check back soon. I’ll be adding more as I read! xo - Ashley