My Top 5 Books of 2018
2018 was the year I fell in love with reading again.
1. The Tattooist of Auschwitz – Heather Morris
My second trip to Auschwitz in January 2017
2 years ago, I went to Auschwitz twice in 3 months. I went once when it was +20°C and again when it was -20°C. I don’t remember ever being taught about the holocaust. But the tour guide painted a vivid picture in which I was able immerse myself.
I’ve since tried educating myself about the horrors that happened there, and when this book was recommended to me — and given it was based on a true story, I had it in my hand the next day.
I read this book in 2 sittings. For me, this is rare.
The book was so eloquently written, and the story so heartfelt and dangerous that I couldn’t bare to put it down and leave the characters so alone.
I cried and smiled and this book filled me with so many emotions. I would recommend this book to everybody and anybody, because it’s a story that deserves to be told.
2. This Is Going To Hurt – Adam Kay
I saw this book floating around Instagram, Facebook, and so many reading groups but somehow it never really caught my attention.
Then I was watching ‘8 out of 10 Cats does Countdown’, and Adam Kay was in dictionary corner.
After he had read one sentence from the book, I knew I had to read this.
This book is hilarious in places, but also advocated the value of the NHS whilst showing how under-appreciated NHS staff are.
For laughter and tears, this is the book for you.
3. James Acaster’s Classic Scrapes – James Acaster
James Acaster is one of my favourite comedians. His form of comedy perfectly matches my sense of humour.
In most of these stories if I’d just taken a couple more seconds to consider my options I would’ve been fine. But instead I went with the first idea that popped into my head and ended up with a mouthful of urine.
The whole book is packed full of discrete ‘scrapes’, allowing you to dip in and out at your leisure. But they all fit together so eloquently.
This book made me want to laugh, and wrap James Acaster in cotton wool.
Buy the book now for lots of laughs, on Amazon!
Bonus content: If you get the chance to see James’ new show ‘Cold Lasagne Hate Myself 1999’ — do! It’s the best thing I’ve ever seen.
4. My Thoughts Exactly – Lily Allen
Lily Allen is one of my favourite musicians. She’s constantly experimenting and pushing the boundaries of popular music, whilst still appealing to the masses for her heartfelt and honest lyrics.
This honestly and poetry translates wonderfully into the story of her life.
The book gave me a new appreciation for her older songs, and she finally spoke out about the gossip about her from trashy magazines and the judgement and pressure she has been under since an incredibly young age.
Even if you’re not a hardcore fan, such as myself, this will turn you into one as it did for me.
5. The Colour of Time – Dan Jones & Marina Amaral
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This book was a gift from my Grandpa. If you’re ever unsure what to get me as a gift — books are always a safe bet.
This book is beautiful in so many ways.
It wonderfully makes black and white photos from 1850–1960 seem part of modern-day life.
Somehow, the addition of colour removes the abstract layer of separation and the people in the photographs seem more like people you know.
Next to each coloured photograph is a short paragraph or two about the photo or that period in time.
If you’re looking for a wonderful coffee table book, or a book to flick through whilst you have a nice cup of tea, this is the book you want to be flicking through!
Get this stunning book on Amazon now!
More books?
My TBR (To Be Read) pile is growing faster than I can read — but this is all good in my eyes! I can’t wait to keep falling more and more in love with books this year, so follow me on here for more updates!
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