Gretchen Rubin
Author and podcaster exploring the science of happiness and personal habits.
25 books recommended
Give and Take
Adam Grant
Explores how being a giver, rather than a taker or matcher, can drive long-term success.
Delivering Happiness
Tony Hsieh
The story of how Zappos built a culture of customer service and happiness, leading to its success.
A Pattern Language
Christopher Alexander
A practical guide to designing spaces that foster human connection and well-being.
The Catcher in the Rye
J.D. Salinger
A classic novel about teenage alienation and rebellion, following the iconic character Holden Caulfield.
The Hate U Give
Angie Thomas
A young adult novel addressing racial injustice, police violence, and identity, following a teenager’s experience after witnessing a shooting.
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
C. S. Lewis
A classic children’s fantasy novel about four siblings who discover a magical world and battle an evil queen.
Why We Get Fat
Gary Taubes
Challenges conventional wisdom on diet and obesity, advocating for a low-carbohydrate approach to weight management.
Memories, Dreams, Reflections
Carl Jung
An autobiographical exploration of Jung’s life, dreams, and theories on the unconscious.
Peter Pan
J. M. Barrie
A classic children’s novel about the adventures of Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Lost Boys in Neverland.
The Puzzler
A.J. Jacobs
A lighthearted exploration of puzzles and the human fascination with problem-solving, covering various types of puzzles and their history.
The Midnight Fox
Betsy Byars
A children’s novel about a boy’s adventure in the countryside, exploring themes of nature and friendship.
A Collection of Essays
George Orwell
A compilation of Orwell’s essays, covering topics from politics to literature and social commentary.
Samuel Johnson
Samuel Johnson
A collection of Samuel Johnson's essays and writings, showcasing his reflections on literature, society, and human nature.
Someday This Pain Will Be Useful to You
Peter Cameron
A coming-of-age novel about a young man’s search for identity and belonging in contemporary New York.
La Belle Sauvage
Philip Pullman
A prequel to *His Dark Materials*, following young Malcolm as he embarks on a fantastical adventure involving intrigue and otherworldly forces.
Wonder
R. J. Palacio
A heartwarming story about a boy with a facial difference who attends mainstream school for the first time, facing challenges and friendships.
Into the Wild
Jon Krakauer
Chronicles the journey of Chris McCandless, who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness with tragic consequences, exploring themes of freedom and isolation.
Holes
Louis Sachar
A young adult novel about a boy sent to a camp where he’s forced to dig holes, uncovering mysteries of the past.
Harriet the Spy
Louise Fitzhugh
A children’s novel following Harriet, a young girl who secretly writes observations about her friends and family.
Tales of Magic Boxed Set
Edward Eager
A collection of classic children's fantasy stories filled with magic and adventure.
Inspired by Gretchen Rubin's recommendations?
Start your own reading journey and share your insights with the community!