Local bookstore, Book + Bottle, is the perfect location for college students to find their next read.
Courtesy of Sol Casanas | The Crow’s Nest
By Sol Casanas
It’s time to stop dread reading and make 2023 the year to read books for pleasure.
As a college student it can be tough to read for entertainment while still reading the mandatory text for class. Not only is it hard to get motivated, but it can be hard to figure out what book to start next.
According to the Journal of Adolescent and Adult literacy, while classes are in session, 63% of students report reading two hours or less each week. Reading for pleasure increases when classes are no longer in session. In this same study, students reported reading more than six hours each week.
“Even if it’s just 15 minutes before going to bed, reading a book that brings you joy can improve your sleep, productivity, and overall happiness,” said Andi Pignato, manager at St. Petersburg’s Book + Bottle.
If it’s hard to start reading, try changing the environment. “Bookstores have the ability to be cozy, welcoming, and quiet all at once,” Pignato said. As a bookseller, there’s nothing I love more than sharing my latest great read with someone looking for their own.”
Here are the top five books I recommend to help get you out of your reading slump:
Drama/Spice:
“It Ends With Us” by Colleen Hoover
A classic Colleen Hoover book. Such an easy read and interesting too. A love triangle story with a lot of twists and turns that will keep your jaw on the floor.
Coming of age:
“The Color Purple “by Alice Walker
A story about the life experience Celie, a Black woman who goes through traumatic experiences like physical abuse. This book is inspiring and great for a discussion of symbolism. Celie is empowering for both the African American community and women. This story is like no other fiction story.
Fantasy:
“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. MAAS
If you love fantasy, this is the book to read. It’s the best book to fall into the realm of imagination to dissociate from the reality of school and work for a while. A love story between a female human and a male faerie. Love, spice, drama, obstacles, this book has it all.
Mystery/ Thriller:
“Fire Keeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley
A story of secret and scandal that functions as an insightful page turner. Readers of this book will explore the modern Native American experience through a shocking murder and the investigation of a lethal new drug.
Wellness:
“Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle” by Emily Nagoski, PhD and Amelia Nagoski, PhD
This book acts as a guide to fight off the overwhelming feeling of exhaustion that comes with burnout. It provides a mix of science and prescriptive advice.
