1. “The Beginning of Everything” by Robyn Schneider

There is no better way to start off the new decade than with a book on starting anew. “The Beginning of Everything” is about a star tennis player whose life plan is put on hold after shattering his knee. Once he meets a mysterious girl, his life is quickly turned upside down. But no spoilers! It’s an inspiring read about new beginnings that stem from abrupt tragedies. it’s the perfect book to start your new year the way you should: with freedom and spontaneity. 

2. “The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles” by Julie Andrews

Is this book technically for children? Yes. Do I love it with every fiber of my being? Also yes. This book, although not about new beginnings, is perfect for every scenario. You’ll find yourself, along with three siblings and a scientist, transported into an imaginary realm where animals like Whangdoodles and Gazooks live freely. Whether in need of a reminder to appreciate all aspects of life or just something cute to read, “The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles” is the perfect book for you. 

3. “Someday This Pain Will Be Useful to You” by Peter Cameron

This book is, for lack of a better word, so good. It’s more than good actually, it managed to turn emotions that I didn’t even know existed into words. Told from the perspective of an 18-year-old preparing to attend Brown, the protagonist reveals parts of his life to the reader through sessions with his physiatrist. And although we may not all be bored 18-year-olds about to attend Brown, this book will prove itself extremely relatable. 

4. “The History of Love” by Nicole Krauss

To say this book completely changed my perception of love and blew my freaking mind would be an understatement. With a plot that’s hard to read, no real ending, and multiple characters with the same name, this book will have you asking, “Why am I reading this?” But once you’re done rereading it for the third time, it’ll hit you: this book is a masterpiece. If you want to know what it’s about, sorry, you’ll just have to read it. 

5. “Cabinet of Curiosities” by various authors

Written as a collection of exchanges of stories from the cabinet’s curators, this book will make you check under the bed before you go to sleep every single night for the rest of your life. (Trust me, I read it). If you’re looking for a way to relieve Halloween in January or a reason to double check if your doors are locked, this is the book for you.