Feel-Good Books to Read When You’re Having a Bad Day

LIFESTYLE

1/27/20253 min read

Bad days happen to everyone, but the right book can turn things around, lifting your spirits and leaving you with a smile. Whether you need a comforting story, a hearty laugh, or a dose of inspiration, here’s a list of feel-good books that can help brighten even the darkest days.

1. Whimsical and Heartwarming Reads

  • "The House in the Cerulean Sea" by TJ Klune
    A charming and magical tale about an ordinary man who finds himself in an extraordinary world. It’s a heartwarming story about love, acceptance, and family.

  • "A Man Called Ove" by Fredrik Backman
    A grumpy but lovable man learns the value of community and second chances. Equal parts funny and touching, it’s a guaranteed mood-lifter.

  • "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman
    A quirky and tender story about loneliness, healing, and unexpected friendships.

2. Laugh-Out-Loud Picks

  • "Good Omens" by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
    A comedic fantasy about an angel and demon teaming up to stop the apocalypse. Witty and hilarious, this book is perfect for fans of sharp humor.

  • "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion
    Follow the adventures of Don Tillman, a socially awkward professor, as he embarks on a hilariously unconventional quest for love.

  • "Let’s Pretend This Never Happened" by Jenny Lawson
    This memoir by humorist Jenny Lawson is full of laugh-out-loud anecdotes about life’s absurdities.

3. Uplifting Memoirs and Non-Fiction

  • "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
    This inspiring memoir from the former First Lady is an empowering read that radiates hope and positivity.

  • "Born a Crime" by Trevor Noah
    Trevor Noah’s memoir about growing up in apartheid South Africa is equal parts funny, heartbreaking, and inspiring.

  • "Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear" by Elizabeth Gilbert
    A motivational book about embracing creativity and letting go of fear to pursue your passions.

4. Cozy Romance Stories

  • "Beach Read" by Emily Henry
    A delightful enemies-to-lovers romance about two writers finding inspiration and love.

  • "The Flatshare" by Beth O’Leary
    A feel-good romance about two strangers who share a flat but have never met. Sweet and charming, it’s a guaranteed pick-me-up.

  • "People We Meet on Vacation" by Emily Henry
    A heartwarming story about friendship, travel, and rediscovering love.

5. Classic Comfort Reads

  • "Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery
    The adventures of Anne Shirley in the quaint town of Avonlea are as comforting as a warm hug.

  • "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
    The story of the March sisters is timeless, offering lessons about love, family, and resilience.

  • "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
    This classic tale of love, wit, and self-discovery never fails to bring a smile.

6. Magical Escapes

  • "Harry Potter Series" by J.K. Rowling
    Dive into the magical world of Hogwarts and let the adventures of Harry, Hermione, and Ron whisk you away from your worries.

  • "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern
    This enchanting story of a mysterious circus that appears overnight is full of wonder and whimsy.

  • "Howl’s Moving Castle" by Diana Wynne Jones
    A delightful fantasy tale filled with magic, humor, and romance.

7. Inspirational Fiction

  • "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho
    A timeless story about pursuing your dreams and finding your purpose in life.

  • "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio
    A touching story about kindness, courage, and seeing the world through someone else’s eyes.

  • "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
    A profound yet simple tale that reminds us of the beauty of imagination and human connections.

8. Short Stories and Light Reads

  • "The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry" by Gabrielle Zevin
    A heartwarming story about love, books, and second chances.

  • "We Should All Be Feminists" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
    A short, uplifting essay on equality and empowerment.

  • "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom
    A reflective and heartwarming book about life’s greatest lessons.

Why These Books Work on a Bad Day

  1. Comfort and Escapism: Many of these stories transport you to new worlds or offer relatable characters that feel like friends.

  2. Humor and Lightheartedness: Laughter is the best medicine, and humorous books can turn your day around instantly.

  3. Inspiration and Positivity: These books remind you that challenges are part of the journey and there’s always light at the end of the tunnel.

So, the next time you’re feeling low, pick one of these gems, curl up in your favorite spot, and let the words work their magic. Happy reading! 😊