February 2024 Reads

Since the new year is still fresh, I’m still full of energy and commitment to my goals. This year, I'm working harder than ever to follow the liberating reading philosophy: DNF (Did Not Finish) is not a sign of failure, but a badge of discernment. This month, in particular, I've quit many books that failed to captivate, by observing and leaning into my tells. How do I know I should quit a book? I find myself scrolling social media instead of reading, or picking up and put down the book multiple times in the span of a reading session.

Practicing the right to DNF has helped in so many ways. It’s cut down my to-read list, making it feel more manageable and exciting, while simultaneously making the spare hours that I do have to read even more enjoyable. I spent so much of last year in a rut after reading too many lukewarm books, so this is how I plan to make this year the return to ravenous reading.

Since I’m more discerning on what gets finished and what doesn’t, you might see fewer completed reads here month after month. But rest assured, every book that makes it to this blog is one I truly enjoyed.

Now, let's dive into the books that made the cut this month. From Duhigg's exploration of productivity to CoHo's addictive romantic thriller, plus revisiting classic literature that will leave you teary-eyed, there's something for every reader.

As always, I clarify in my reviews whether I listened to or physically read the book. I also link all of the book cover images to Goodreads so you can click on them to read more reviews if you’re so inclined.

Smarter Faster Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business
charles Duhigg

Stats: Psychology, 386 pages

Quick summary
Through a series of real life case studies, Duhigg examines the habits and practices that lead to efficiency, innovation, and motivation. He delves into the latest research in neuroscience and psychology, translating it into practical insights for harnessing the power of smarter decision-making and goal setting. This book is a masterclass in understanding the tools and mindset necessary to transform productivity in various arenas.

What I thought:
I thoroughly enjoyed Duhigg’s sophomore effort as much as his first, The Power of Habit. I love how he brings psychological concepts to life through the case studies. For those who have read numerous psychology books and are familiar with terms like growth mindset, there isn’t a lot of new material here, but I loved it still the same. For those who haven’t read many psychology books or studied the subject much in school, you need to put this one on your holds list ASAP. I will say the subtitle is a little misleading and there really isn’t a magic bullet to success in these pages if that’s what you’re looking for.

Who should read it:
Anyone trying to raise their self awareness and emotional intelligence.

Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America
Heather Cox Richardson

Stats: Politics, 8 hours and 28 minutes

Quick summary
By examining our past, we can get a clearer picture of the state of our democracy, which has been on a state of decline post-WWII. Richardson explores how our democracy is flirting with authoritarianism in its current state.

What I thought:
As stated in the book, most voters are apathetic towards politics, and I must admit that I was in this category. Up until the last few years, I didn’t really understand how significant it was who became the President. And then I watched January 6 happen. I saw Roe v. Wade get overturned, and woke up, as I am sure many Americans have. I fear dictatorship, and I’ll do anything in my power to prevent it.

Who should read it:
As the friend who recommended this book to me stated, this is an election year so it should be required reading, especially if you don’t know the history of United States politics all that well.

It ends with Us
Colleen Hoover

Stats: Chick Lit, 386 pages

Quick summary
Following her father's funeral, Lily Bloom finds herself on the rooftop of Ryle Kincaid's apartment building in Boston, sparking an unexpected connection with the charismatic neurosurgeon. As their intense relationship evolves, Lily's past resurfaces, embodied in her first love with a homeless teen, Atlas Corrigan.

What I thought:
First, let's address the trigger warnings: there's a heavy theme of domestic violence. After enjoying Verity and with a strong recommendation from my sister-in-law, I decided to give another CoHo book a try. Romance isn’t usually my favorite genre, but the way Hoover turns it just a little (or a lot) dark, somehow sucks me in. Definitely have plans to read the sequel, but I want to put about a month of space in-between it first.

Who should read it:
Anyone looking for an easier, page-turner that definitely has some pretty dark themes. Don’t forget that trigger warning if that is a sensitive issue for you; you’ll definitely want to skip this one.

Where the Red Fern Grows
Wilson Rawls

Stats: Classic, 6 hours and 56 minutes

Quick summary
Deep in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, all that a young boy named Billy wants is not one, but two redbone coonhounds to go hunting. After working hard and saving for years, he finally gets his pups and names them Old Dan and Little Ann. Old Dan is all brawn and heart. Little Ann, despite her small stature, is the smartest dog this side of the Mississippi. Together the trio become the best coon hunting team, forming an unbreakable bond through triumph and tragedy.

What I thought:
Of course I’ve read this before, and it possibly hits me in the heartstrings even harder now as an adult with my own Old Dan and Little Ann. The bond one feels with a dog is one of the brightest spots in human existence, fight me.

Who should read it:
Anyone who’s ever had a dream of having a dog of their own, but be warned, you’re probably going to cry.

HAVE YOU READ ANYTHING LATELY THAT YOU’VE ABSOLUTELY LOVED? LEAVE A COMMENT WITH YOUR SUGGESTION! I’M ALWAYS ON THE HUNT FOR THE NEXT GREAT BOOK, WHETHER IT’S FICTION OR NONFICTION!

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