I have dealt with social anxiety all of my life and depression for the past few years. Most of the books I read nowadays are the classics and some semi-philosophical ones – these all speak to me intellectually, but I feel like I’m missing something.
My issues have been getting worse as of recently and I am… isolated. The days feel grey and everything is rather meaningless. I’ve been going through my older music playlists and felt alive again, and I would like to see that encapsulated in a book. The beauty of life. Uncertainty and adventure. Maybe some romance (but not too much). Books that feel like taking someone’s hand, climbing over that wall, and admiring the dazzling day. Looking up at the stars.
by A_Firm_Sandwich
4 Comments
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts. My absolute favorite book and i think will check quote a few of your boxes.
A Million Tomorrows by Kris Middaugh (Amazon) is a romance (nothing gushy or spicy) that is sweet, sad, hopeful, uplifting and beautifully written. There’s some grounded sci fi elements, too. Worth a look!
And hang in there. I’m in a very similar boat, so I feel for you!
If you are interested in nonfiction I would recommend These Precious Days by Ann Patchett. It is about connection and generosity and authenticity. Beautiful essays.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A Psalm for the Wild Built by Becky Chambers
And if you’d consider nonfiction, I’d suggest:
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake
An Immense World by Ed Yong
The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery