I love reading. It’s one of my favorite things to do. Whenever I get a chance to read a good book, I take that chance. I’ve read some really good books in my time. I would like to recommend a few of them just in case you’re bored over the summer and need a good read.

1. "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)" by Mindy Kaling

This book is an autobiography about Mindy Kaling, the star of the sitcom, "The Mindy Project." You might also remember her from "The Office." I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Mindy guides you through her life from the time she was a child. She reminisces about her hopes, dreams and life experiences throughout college and into her adulthood when she makes it as an actress. Mindy’s confidence throughout the book is inspiring. She even has another book called “Why Not Me.” If it is as inspiring, hilarious and informative as this one, I look forward to reading it.

2. "Is it Just Me? Or is it Nuts Out There?" by Whoopi Goldberg

I absolutely loved this book. Whoopi Goldberg, the award-winning actress, wrote this book to discuss things that are bothersome to the average person. She is spot-on with most of her points. The book is quite relatable. Rather than sugarcoating what really grinds her gears, Whoopi is blunt, and she explains why she dislikes something. She even offers tips on how to be a better human being. Now who can’t use those tips? This book was one for the win.

3. "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky

One of my friends recommended this book on Facebook a few years ago. As I was in a thrift store a few months ago, I came across that same book. I decided to give it a try. I figured it would be a good book, but I didn’t know that it would be a great book that would bring me to tears. I rarely cry, especially from books, but this one got me. This book follows a boy who is just trying to make it through life even though it seems like everyone who loves him leaves him. He quickly makes friends with some older kids who help him figure out who he is. I suppose the book got its title because it shows the positive sides of being an introvert. As an introvert, I found many things in this book relatable. Like I said before, this book had me in tears at one chapter. It was a masterpiece. I also loved the film that went with it.

4. "To Kill A Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

I think that the first time I read this book, I was in ninth grade. I enjoyed the book then. I read it again when I was in college. I enjoyed it even more and developed an appreciation for the book like no other. I can’t even keep track of how many times I have read the book. This work of art is set in Alabama. It follows the story of a little girl by the name of Scout. The story is set back in the 1930s. During this time, Scout’s father, a lawyer, is chosen to defend a man for a crime that he was falsely accused. During this time, Scout learns about justice, racism, and honesty. This book has been banned in some schools for its material and touchy subject of racism. Luckily, my ninth grade honors English teacher saw fit for us to read it. It’s not a difficult read either. I’ve read it multiple times, and I plan on reading it even more multiple times.

5. "This is Where I Leave You" by Jonathan Tropper

Last but not least is this story about four adult siblings who put their lives on hold when their father passes away. One sibling, Judd narrates the story. To add to his father’s passing, Judd is going through a divorce. His other siblings have their own problems to deal with. Once everyone arrives for their father’s funeral, they find out that his dying wish was for his family to sit Shiva. According to the book, Shiva is a Jewish tradition where the family sits for seven days while visitors come over to the house to offer condolences and other things. All four siblings are now forced to be under the same roof once more for seven days without killing each other. This book will make you laugh and cry. It is hilarious, as well as thoughtful. It’s also been adapted into a movie starring Jason Bateman, Tina Fey, Adam Driver and Jane Fonda. I’d recommend the movie as well. I might want to mention that both the book and film are quite vulgar, so beware.

These were only short summaries of the books so I wouldn’t give anything away. These books are worth the read. I have plenty of other books to comment on, which will be mentioned in future stories. For now, I hope you can get your hands on one of the books I have mentioned so far.