Winter is the perfect season to slow down, cozy up, and get snowed in with a book that leaves you feeling introspective, meditative, and deeply changed from the inside-out. This year, our team's winter reading list is chock-full of reflective, inspiring, and thought-provoking works that are sure to challenge perspectives, spark curiosity, and help readers approach life with a little more thought and intention.
From memoirs that explore growth through grief to self-help guides for changing your mindset, these are the books we’re curling up with this winter.
Known as a pioneer of New Journalism, famous novelist Joan Didion is highly praised for the wisdom she imparted via her striking prose. Didion’s classic emotional memoir The Year of Magical Thinking explores the emotional aftermath of losing a loved one as recounted from real-life experience. It’s an intense and vulnerable look at how we process life-altering events as human beings and find meaning again after earth-shattering heartbreak. This is a story that will have you thinking about it long after the last page.
Brianna Wiest’s essay collection 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think is perfect for slow, reflective reading over a long period of time. This accessibly formatted self-help book compiles short, impactful essays about different thought-provoking subjects like emotional intelligence, purpose, and personal growth. This format leaves you with distinct stopping points to think about what you just read, making it the perfect book to pick up if you're looking to consume differing perspectives and think on them long after reading. Each essay invites you to challenge typical assumptions, examine daily habits, and consider what matters most.
This memoir by former first lady Michelle Obama is as inspiring as it is relatable. Becoming is a peek into Michelle Obama’s journey from childhood all the way to the White House and beyond. Obama thoughtfully and charismatically touches on the importance of ambition, identity, and resilience, making this a thoughtful and enjoyable winter read.
Carol Dweck’s Mindset: The New Psychology of Success introduces and breaks down the idea of having a "fixed mindset" versus a "growth mindset." This study on the power of mindset is required reading for anyone looking to think differently about facing everyday challenges in life. With the new year just beginning, winter is the perfect season to take some extra time to cultivate a positive growth mindset.
Brené Brown’s The Gifts of Imperfection authentically and vulnerably explores how holding onto courage is the key to living a wholehearted life free from regret. This book is perfect for wintertime reflection as it encourages readers to embrace imperfection in life and the self to feel more free.
Glennon Doyle's intimate memoir Untamed is an empowering feminist read all about reclaiming your voice despite being historically stifled, trusting instincts, and living authentically in the face of lofty societal expectations. Doyle’s candid way of recounting real moments she experienced makes it impossible not to reflect on your own life and choices, making it the best possible thought-provoking companion for a winter night in.
Simon Sinek’s Start With Why instructs readers to lead with intention. This practical guide to navigating work and life is one to read slowly, take notes from, and come back to whenever you need some clarity on what exactly your own “why" is.
Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic is a glorious celebration of loud, unabashed creativity and curiosity. It's a stark reminder that thinking differently and embracing your biggest inspirations is what can best lead you to a more successful and fulfilling life. It’s the kind of read that will spark ideas and encourage you to approach your own creative projects with a little extra courage.
