August 9- National Book Lovers Day!

Here at Rev, we’re always up for a good read, whether it's a juicy romance novel or something more educational. Reading is one of the best ways to constantly grow your mind and expand your horizons! Whether you’re an avid book worm like us or haven’t picked up a book since high school or college days, you’ll want to add this great list of reads to your book queue. 

Read on to see some of our favorite reads of all time as well as some recent finds that we’ve added to our library.

Favorite book: The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Why: “I’m so enamored with Donna’s writing style (loved The Goldfinch too) and her ability to describe people and places. Her stories take you on these complex human journeys that are so well crafted. They’re also sad, but full of joy as well. I always come back to this one and am surprised by new details I missed.”

What you learned from it: “I’d say I’m still learning from it! It’s always a pleasure to get to sit in on one of Donna’s worlds and to study her story telling.”

- Emma

Recent read: The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley 

Why: “I loved the pure enjoyment of this one. I can't read books that are too scary - this was the perfect amount of mystery and entertainment.”

- Jen

Favorite book: The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

Why: “It opened my eyes in a lot of ways. It pushed me to change in a way I never have. I started developing healthier habits that would benefit me in the long run, because I finally realized how integral they were to my long-term wellbeing and success in all areas of life.”

What you learned from it: “I learned that if you’re not growing, you’re moving backward. There’s no such thing as being stagnant, and the last thing I want to do is digress. I also learned that the small things that don’t seem like a big deal today will make all the difference 5, 10, 20 years down the line.”

- Nicole

Favorite book: The Good Lie by A. R. Torre

Why: “it's a mystery / psychological thriller that isn't too scary but really activated my wannabe detective skills. A perfect beach or park read!” 

- Carolyn

Favorite book: Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren

Why: “I loved this book because not only is it a great story, it is also sort of a love letter to Northern California, where I grew up. It takes place not far away from my hometown, which always makes me feel more connected to a book. I also love plots that include childhood friends reuniting as adults and reconfiguring their relationship as their lives have changed.”

What you learned from it: “From this book, I learned that it is important to live in the moment. In most cases, it doesn’t serve us well in the end to be stuck in the past or worrying about the future. The characters in the book taught me that even though we endure adversity and trauma, it is vital to move forward.” 

- Avery

Favorite book: Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Why: “It's a funny and heart wrenching look at how girls and women are socialized to live in the cages created for us by society and the outcomes. The same is true for men in some ways.”

- Jen

Favorite book: The Selection by Kiera Cass

Why: “This book / series was kind of a guilty pleasure, but so good! Imagine The Hunger Games meets the Bachelor - much less violent than the Hunger Games but just as entertaining.” 

What you learned from it: “This book taught me that you're never too old for an entertaining and cheesy romance novel. If you're in a reading funk, this will pull you out right away!” 

- Kendsy

Recent read: The Defining Decade by Meg Jay 

Why: “I don't usually love self-help style books but this one was so eye opening for me and a really engaging read.” 

What you learned from it: “It helped me get out of my own head and strive to make the most out of this time in my life without putting too much pressure on myself.”

- Carolyn

What are some of your favorite reads? We’d love to hear your recommendations on Instagram!