Summary

The website content provides a curated list of uplifting books recommended for reading during self-isolation to offer comfort, perspective, and a sense of optimism.

Abstract

The article "Books To Soothe You During Self-Isolation" suggests that the current period of self-isolation is an opportune time to delve into a selection of engaging and comforting books. It presents a list of four books, each offering a unique form of solace and inspiration. "Factfulness" by Hans Rosling et al. challenges preconceived notions about the world with statistical evidence, promoting a more optimistic view of global progress. "If I Never Met You" by Mhairi McFarlane provides a humorous take on modern romance with a plot centered around a faux office relationship. Dawn O'Porter's "So Lucky" uses humor to reveal the disparities between social media personas and real life, while Matt Haig's "Notes on a Nervous Planet" offers advice on navigating the anxieties of contemporary life, suggesting ways to find joy and reduce stress. The article emphasizes that these books can serve as a source of laughter, insight, and a reminder that things are not always as they seem, especially in challenging times.

Opinions

"Factfulness" is praised for providing a fact-based, optimistic perspective on the world, countering the prevalent negative narratives.
"If I Never Met You" is recommended for its entertaining twist on the concept of romantic relationships and the complexities of office dynamics.
"So Lucky" is highlighted for its humorous approach to the realities behind social media facades, offering a relatable and comedic reflection on life.
"Notes on a Nervous Planet" is commended for its relevance to current times, providing practical advice for living a joyful and less anxious life amidst the pressures of the digital age.
The article suggests that reading these books can contribute to a renewed sense of optimism and provide valuable insights during periods of isolation.

Books To Soothe You During Self-Isolation

Comfort food for the soul

There is always a silver lining to every cloud. Sometimes it’s very hard to see it while you’re still standing in the pouring rain.

But, remember that pile of books gathering dust in a corner of your bedroom?

Now might be the time to pick them up, put them in a box and find something you actually feel compelled to read…

Here’s my list of feel-good, unputdownable books for lockdown reading:

Factfulness, by Hans Rosling et al

(Ten reasons we’re wrong about the world — and why things are better than you think)

Hans Rosling’s astonishing book puts the world to rights with scientifically based statistics that will leave your head reeling. If you are ready to have your preconceptions turned upside down by facts and figures, look no further. The world is not going to hell in a handbasket after all… who knew? Apparently not many of us!

If we need to hear anything at the moment it is that things on our planet are not as bad as they look. Give this a read, and gain perspective and a renewed optimism about humanity and our future.

For a good laugh, how about:

If I Never Met You, by Mhairi McFarlane

Mhairi McFarlane’s book is a love story with a twist. What if ‘the one’ is just pretending for the sake of revenge?

Friends Laurie and Jamie conspire to create a mutually beneficial office “fauxmance with strategically staged photographs and a specific end date in mind…the plan hatched, Laurie and Jamie begin to flaunt their new couple status, to the astonishment — and jealousy — of their friends and colleagues. But there’s a fine line between pretending to be in love and actually falling for your charming, handsome fake boyfriend…”

So Lucky, by Dawn O’Porter

Dawn O’Porter reminds us that life is never what it seems on social media. A large dose of real life with a bigger dollop of humour, leaves us thinking our own “humdrum” lives are just fine as they are.

Hilarious, filthy humour with relatable and believable characters create a brilliant pick-me-up and perfect piece of escapism.

Notes on a Nervous Planet, by Matt Haig

Particularly poignant and relevant to the times we are living through right now, this is author Matt Haig’s take on modern life and how to live it better, more joyfully, painlessly and with less anxiety. Matt’s books have inspired people around the world and even been attributed with saving countless lives.

“Looking at sleep, news, social media, addiction, work and play, Matt Haig invites us to feel calmer, happier and to question the habits of the digital age. This book might even change the way you spend your precious time on earth.”

There are some real life tips for reducing anxiety and enjoying life. I read this in small chunks during my lunchbreaks at work, when I was still leaving the house to go to work… full of proper food for thought and factual, incredibly thoroughly researched reasons to feel good even in difficult circumstances.

Thanks for reading… and, happy reading!!

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