5 Books From 2016 That Got Me Totally Hooked

This year I found myself a lot more addicted to my phone. Majorly because I bought a new phone, I was really into it. Whenever I found free time, I was glued onto one app or the other. Be it Instagram, Twitter, FB or even Pokemon Go - I found myself aimlessly scrolling. Endless scrolling of the same stuff over different apps. To break my bad habit, I tried deleting the apps. Obviously that didn’t work out the way it should have. I found myself browsing more on the web versions. I was almost disgusted as I was always aimlessly scrolling on my phone for catching new updates or memes(!)

I really wanted to get rid of my FOMO feeling, I was determined. So I came up with a plan. Plan was to curb the urge of checking my phone, and grabbing a good book instead. And I was surprised how I actually was successful in ditching my unnecessary habit. It turned I actually ended up reading 2 books per month. Yes, I definitely missed out on a lot of memes but clearly didn’t mind it.

In the process I came across some excellent books that were out this year. And I am happy to share my top five picks from 2016 that my SHEROES community members shouldn't probably miss.

Goodreads Rating: 4/5

Author: Hope Jahren

Why should you check it out: This book is a brilliant memoir of a girl who aspires and becomes a scientist. Jane has shared her intimate parts of work and life which are so easy to relate when you are working towards a less common career. This book is not “I grew up and this is my life” story. It has intimate details of all the things most girls go through. It talks about - dealing with self doubt when young, it also portrays the struggle of mental illness and women in science. It’s entertaining, informative and inspiring. The SHEROES vibe can be totally felt while reading this book.  

Get Lab Girl here - Amazon

Goodreads Rating: 4.4/5
 

Author: Yaa Gyasi

Why should you check it out: This excellent book is full of rich characters, It strongly portrays story of two half sisters separated and stuck into slavery. It depicts the slavery and colonialism in Ghana and America. This is a debut novel from Yaa, but it will totally astonish you and keep you engrossed in the story of the two step sisters. This book will leave you glued, and leave that warm feeling of what happened in that era. This book is only 300 pages, and you would definitely want to recommend everyone you know. Feel free to get some ice-cream after you are done reading this book.
 

Get Homegoing here - Amazon

Author: Maria Semple

Why should you check it out: This book is a quirky and a funny read. If you loved ‘Where’d you go Bernadette”, this one won’t disappoint you. Its unique, smart and has lot of dark humor. This book is a classic pick me up. As a millennial woman it’s a totally relatable. It's a light read which will make you laugh throughout. Also on the plus side - this book is soon going to be released as a mini-series with Julia Roberts as a lead. So you can always catch it a series if you are not in a mood to read.
 

Get Today Will Be Different here - Amazon

Goodreads Rating: 3.6/5


Author: Helen Oyeyemi

Why should you check it out: This book is a collection of some excellent short stories. Oyeyemi’s imaginative writing style will sweep you off your toes. Her stories have a fairy-tale-fantasy style, and each character will push you to think and leave you surprised. You will find yourself engrossed and ready for re-reading this one. This book is not a typical easy ready. You will find yourself analysing and making theories.
 

Get What Is Not Yours Is Not Yours Here - Amazon

Author: Annie Proulx

Why should you check it out: Well this book is a super interesting read with the whole current scenario of the climate. It tells the story of two immigrants to New France, and of their descendants. It spans over 300 years and witnesses the deforestation of the New World from the arrival of Europeans into the contemporary era of global warming. This novel offers a profound reading experience. You can’t rush this one. You could totally curl up and read this novel which takes you to a good geographical yet interesting journey.
 

Get Barkskins here - Amazon