UPLIFTING BOOKS

Looking for a new book to inspire you or lift your spirits? We’ve put together a list of recommendations that range from the fantastical and funny to insightful and inspiring.

The opinions and advice shared are those of the authors.

PRO TIP: Check out e-books and audiobooks for free from your local library using the Libby app!

The House in the Cerulean Sea
by T.J. Klune

The House in the Cerulean Sea is a young adult fantasy story that follows Linus Baker, a Case Worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, as he is unexpectedly sent to the Marsyas Island Orphanage to evaluate six “dangerous” children. This LGBTQIA+ story focuses on the value of having differences and embracing who we really are.

The Midnight Library
by Matt Haig

The Midnight Library is a contemporary adult fiction novel that tells a story about a library found between life and death. Within each book, there is a story of a new reality. The book follows Nora Seed as she is faced with the possibility of exchanging her life for a new one and finding out what makes life worth living to begin with.

The Miracle of Mindfulness:
An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation
by Thich Nhat Hanh

An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh, Zen master, offers practical exercises and stories to help us become more mindful in each moment of our day to day lives – from doing the dishes to talking on the phone.

Unbowed
by Wangarĩ Maathai

Unbowed by Wangari Maathaĩ, Kenyan social activist and winner of the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize, is an inspirational autobiography that details her incredible life as a feminist, environmentalist and political activist in Kenya. Her story offers hope, inspiration and encouragement.

Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me & You
by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jonny Sun

Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me & You offers words of encouragement for the beginning and end of your day. Written by Miranda, Sun illustrates this collection of poems, daily greetings and more.

When Sharks Attack With Kindness
by Andrés J. Colmenares

When Sharks Attach With Kindness is a collection of Colmenares’ popular Instagram comics about sharks, except in in Colmenares’s world, these predators are transformed into cute creatures that strike only with kindness and positivity.

Piglet: The Unexpected Story
of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family
by Melissa Shapiro and Mim Eichler Rivas

Piglet: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family tells the story of Piglet, a two-pound deaf, blind pup without a home turned social media superstar. This story details Piglet’s journey from a traumatized, anxious puppy into a confident, spirited dog and his adventures.

Dragons Love Tacos
by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri

Dragons Love Tacos is a hilarious kid-friendly tale about a boy who just wants to lure a bunch of dragons to his party. What’s the best way to do that? Serve tacos – dragons LOVE tacos. The only catch? Give them too much spicy salsa, and you better watch out!

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