- Kate B.
- Wednesday, June 02, 2021
Life can be hard. Whether it's personally, professionally, what's happening in the world around you, or even the weather, sometimes you just feel blue.
Or at least I do. And when I feel adrift and disconnected I want just the right book to help me feel cared for and comforted, as if a good friend were giving me a hug. I've found it hard to discover that gem of a book at just the time I need it; but once found, I can return to a treasured book time and again for solace.
While attending a learning opportunity recently I learned the term "Up Lit" - a genre of books that, while addressing realistic and sometimes dark and complex issues, provides an element of hope, humor, empathy, and the very best of humankind. These are exactly the type of books I turn to when I want to be cheered up.
Below are some of my favorites: ones in which the characters create a community of friendship and love, and care for one another through good times and bad. Some of these books made me laugh, some made me cry; but when I finished each I felt renewed and reminded that people are generally good and kind to one another. And that always makes me feel more hopeful and less blue.
Moloka'i
Harry's Trees
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet
This is How It Always is
The Wedding Party
The Book Charmer
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine
Bring on the Blessings
Miss Benson's Beetle
The Brilliant Life of Eudora Honeysett
The Authenticity Project
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand
Nothing to See Here
While I highlighted physical books, many of these titles are available as eBooks, eAudiobooks, and books on CD. Check out any format for that hug you're looking for...and maybe you'll find your next go-to warm and cozy, comforting, Up Lit read.