Reading, to me, is something deeply personal. When you read, you’re allowing someone else’s story to take up space in your mind. The same book can feel completely different to someone else, depending on where they are in life and the perspective they bring to it, and that’s pretty powerful. The books we read shape us as we grow: our mindset, our lifestyle, and even our habits. Sometimes, they become a quiet space of comfort, especially when we’re not quite ready to put our feelings into words. Books give us a safe space for our thoughts to breathe, helping us untangle the complex and make it feel a little simpler. 

1. Anne of Green Gables​​


I followed the book series all the way up to the eighth book, and it’s been such a joy following Anne’s journey, from a curious little 6-year-old to a loving mom of seven kids, each with their own quirks and charm. The cozy and comforting setting made it such a joy to read, and Montgomery has this amazing way of describing nature that just melts your heart. If reading all eight books sounds like too much, I’d say just start with the first one and you’ll know from there if it’s your cup of tea. For me, though, Anne Shirley will always have a special place in my heart

2. Anxious people​​


A fiction book by Fredrik Backman where a group of people gets locked in an apartment during a house tour that turns into a hostage situation after a theft. The story unfolds as the author dives into the backstories of every one in the room, including the thief and the father-son duo of policemen interrogating the victims. Each character's story is a reminder that everyone is trying their best to navigate life's struggles, and it brings a sense of comfort and connection.​



3. The school of life​​


The School of Life has been an essential guide for navigating my twenties, especially during times when it feels like everything in this world is against you. By covering topics like career, work, passion, parenting, and relationships, it offers emotional comfort and healing. It taught me to be more forgiving and understanding of others, reminding me that no one is perfect; we are all simply living our first lives. Learning the art of acceptance and tolerance has been key to building better connections with the people around me.​​

4. Becoming


Michelle Obama's biography is an inspiring read that shares her journey of growing up as a middle-class Black woman in the U.S. It's one of the books that reignited my love for reading. I admire how raw and relatable Michelle is, especially in showing her vulnerability. Her story of supporting her husband through the election, navigating her career, and later giving back to society is. She always keeps herself busy, and that drive is incredibly empowering!



5. Tasawuf Moden​​


Tasawuf Moden is hands down my favourite book by Hamka. It’s a non-fiction piece, and throughout the book, he dives deep into the true meaning of happiness, exploring it from a philosophical angle, and more importantly, how to achieve it in a way that aligns with Islamic teachings. It really made me pause and reflect on how I’ve been living my life all this time. There’s something about this book that gives me a deep sense of peace and fulfilment. Now I’m on a mission to collect all of Hamka’s books in this edition!

6. The poppy war trilogy​​


I've said it before, and I'll say it again. RF Kuang is an incredibly talented writer. Her storytelling is so captivating and engaging that I couldn't stop turning the pages. The first book in her trilogy follows Fang Runin, a girl from a small village who dreams of attending Sinegard, a prestigious school typically reserved for the upper class, to change her circumstances. At Sinegard, she discovers the power within her and navigates her relationships with her classmates. Runin is such a cool, heroic, yet relatable character. The fast-paced story keeps you hooked, making you eager to find out how it all ends. While her second and third books are decent, the first book in the trilogy is definitely the standout!


7. What you are looking for is in the library


The story revolves around a group of people, each dealing with personal struggles, who find solace in a library. The librarian plays a key role, recommending seemingly random books to them. What I love most is how these books, in their own unique way, help people find comfort and take steps to move forward in their lives. Books about books always hold a special place in my heart!

8. Pride & Prejudice


It’s impossible not to include this classic in any list! Elizabeth Bennet is truly a legend. The enemies-to-lovers trope between her and Mr. Darcy is iconic, but what makes it even more special is Elizabeth’s feminist spirit, which feels so ahead of its time. The sharp, witty arguments between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are the heart of the story and the reason I adore this book. It’s a timeless reminder of why women must strive to be their own person. I’ve read this book countless times and watched the movie adaptations even more, and I still love it every single time!


9. Where the Crawdad Sing


This book is an absolute gem. Delia Owens has crafted such a beautiful story that it’s honestly hard to put into words. You can really feel her love for nature shining through every page. The story follows Kya, a young girl who grows up all alone in the marsh after her family abandons her. The beginning might feel a bit slow, but once Kya starts connecting with the people in the nearby village, things get so much more interesting and layered. By the end, it gave me vibes similar to *To Kill a Mockingbird*, but no spoilers here! I can totally see this book becoming a classic in the future.

10. How to Stay Sane in an Age of Division


This book introduced me to the remarkable writing of Elif Shafak, whose talent for crafting alluring and captivating narratives is truly unmatched. I read it during the COVID pandemic, on my way to get vaccinated, and it became a source of comfort and healing for my anxiety at the time. Through this book, Shafak reassures us that it’s okay to be different; that you don’t need to conform to the mainstream to be considered normal. In an era overwhelmed by information, where navigating life can feel confusing and chaotic, Shafak offers valuable insights and guidance. She helps readers find clarity amidst the noise, making sense of the overinformation and focusing on what truly matters. It’s a beautiful and empowering message that lingers long after the final page.


11. The Defining Decade


Navigating life after graduating from university can be incredibly confusing, and this book provides invaluable guidance on how to upgrade yourself and make the most of your twenties. That said, I personally believe this book isn’t just for those in their twenties, its advice and insights remain relevant and applicable across all ages. It’s a must-read for young graduates and even students who feel uncertain about what to do after finishing their studies. Highly recommended for anyone seeking clarity and direction in their post-graduation journey!

12. Islam and Secularism


This book is truly eye-opening, offering a fresh perspective on Islam and its place in a world increasingly influenced by secularism. It’s a source of inspiration for anyone striving to be a better Muslim and to foster a strong, united Muslim community, especially in these challenging and confusing times. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas presents his views with remarkable clarity and strictness, which is fitting given his belief that the downfall of a Muslim begins with confusion. This is definitely a must-read for those seeking guidance and understanding in navigating the complexities of modern life while staying true to their faith.