6 Recommended Reads to Self-Isolate With

One of the best parts of the apocalypse thus far has been diving head-first back into books. This part of me has gone surprisingly dormant in recent years, despite having once been a massive reader (and re-reader).

But, with so much time inside, and the newfound stasis my body seems to be forming some small amount of comfort with, I have returned to my book-devouring ways of old.

So, I thought I’d put together some of my favourites from recent years, in case anyone was inclined to do the same. 

The Rook – Daniel O’Malley

Supernatural MI5. Enter Myfanwy (that’s Welsh for “Miff-anne-wee”) Thomas, who wakes up beside the London Millennium Bridge with no knowledge of who she is. Turns out, she’s a high ranking member of the Checquy – Britain’s paranormal secret service! Follow her as she navigates this intriguing system – and the “chess pieces” in play – to uncover the truth of her circumstances. The writing style is fresh and funny, and I got hooked in right away. Starz released a TV series based on the book this year, so something to check out if you enjoy it!

Throne of Glass – Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas enters the arena with her Throne of Glass series, featuring Celaena Sardothian – a skilled killer who must navigate a tournament of assassins to claim her freedom. I really enjoy Sarah’s J. Maas’ writing style, and the no-holds-barred protagonist with a sense of humour, although it definitely delves into romance-land a few (or fourteen times.) If you enjoy it, there’s a lot more books left in this series. 

Code Name Verity – Elizabeth Wein

This book is about two baller best friends in WWII – one is who is a pilot, one who is a spy. Their tales are told both separate and together, as they help in the war effort in their individual capacities. I really enjoyed this tale of friendship and being brave, although it can be a bit of a heart-wrencher at times.

Name of the Wind – Patrick Rothfuss

The good news? You’ve finally got time for these 662 pages. Although, I don’t think you’ll skip a sentence. Patrick Rothfuss has a way of making every word count, and I remember being engaged from start to finish. It’s been some time since I’ve read this book, or any of his works, but this origin story of Kvothe turning into a powerful wizard is one worth sticking around for. 

Jane Eyre – Charlotte Brontë

A few years ago, I delved deep into the classics, including Charlotte’s Brontë’s most famous work. And, it was well worth it. Every sentence is a beautiful construct – a paint stroke that combines to form a masterpiece painting. I don’t think I understood what “beautiful writing” was until this book. Widely considered the first feminist novel of its time, Jane Eyre delivers. Told from a first-person perspective, I remember connecting with the main character, as she fights against societal constructs to find her own path – and mind. If this ends up being your jam (like it was mine) I recommend giving Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier a go once you’re finished. 

The Miseducation of Cameron Post – Emily M. Danforth

This coming-of-age story centres around Cameron Post – a girl growing up in a small town in Montana who finds love (and a WHOLE lot of trouble) with her best friend. While it’s hard to read how the adults in her life seem to consistently betray her, the story provides an interesting insight into what it is to discover yourself, and fight for it. I enjoyed the depictions of Montana (which I later visited!), along with the character development and relatable tale of finding yourself and owning it.

What books have you been reading?