As we collectively do our part by practicing social distancing, there are a lot of great, healthy, and productive ways to fill our days. My favourite? Getting hooked on a good book.
Although these times may hold a lot of uncertainty, I hope getting lost in one of these books’ pages can help bring a little escape to your day.
And while going to a public bookstore or library is not recommended right now, lots of online retailers such as Indigo and Amazon carry these titles both in physical and digital form for online purchase and delivery to your door (or to your ereader).
There are also apps such as Libby, which brings your favourite libraries to life virtually. Additionally, apps that connect to devices such as Kindle and Kobo often have the most up-to-date selections for ebooks available; Kindle even has a Cloud Reader that lets you read titles right on your internet browser.
Finally, it’s worth contacting your local independent bookstores to see what they are doing right now. In vitruvi’s hometown of Vancouver, places including Pulpfiction Books, Book Warehouse, and Massy Books are letting you place orders online or via phone and are offering free local delivery.
“No One Is Too Small To Make A Difference” by Greta Thunberg
The young but mighty climate-change activist Greta Thunberg wrote her perspective on the incredible waves she’s made in the past year. She reminds us that it’s never too late to start helping, and you’re never too tiny to make positive changes for the health of Mother Earth.
Get it: Ebook and physical copy available online through Indigo and through Amazon.
“Know My Name” by Chanel Miller
After being anonymous for numerous years under the alias Emily Doe and having her victim impact statement go viral (it was viewed by 11 million people in four days via BuzzFeed), Chanel Miller came forward with the heartbreaking and real recollection of her time fighting for justice. Please note that this book discusses sexual assault and may be triggering.
Get it: Ebook and physical copy available online through Indigo and through Amazon; virtual copy also available on Libby.
“Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng
Get this book read before watching the television version starring the magnificent Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington. The novel follows two women as they battle and push the definition of “proper” motherhood; it’s promised to capture you with the dirty little secrets riddled throughout its pages.
Get it: Ebook and physical copy available online through Indigo and through Amazon; virtual copy also available on Libby.
“My Dark Vanessa” by Kate Elizabeth Russell
This highly-discussed novel moves through a young girl’s past and present. This book rips you in half as Vanessa’s youth challenges you to see new perspectives of her trauma and victimhood. Please note that this book deals with sexual abuse, emotional manipulation, and abuse of power, and therefore may be triggering.
Get it: Ebook and physical copy available online through Indigo and through Amazon; virtual copy also available on Libby.
“Calypso” by David Sedaris
Celebrated humourist David Sedaris returns after many successful books with his latest tales in Calypso, which many are claiming to be his best work yet. This collection takes you through his observations on everything from his family dynamics to his beach house. As usual, his dark humour will have you laughing until you cry.
Get it: Physical copy available online through Indigo and through Amazon; virtual copy also available on Libby.
Virtual book club, anyone? We’re all in this together.
