Evelyn Lau is assistant features editor at The National
As my 20s come to an end, I reflect back on five books that have stayed with me and helped me get through growing up. Whether it was through advice offered or just captivating enough to keep me up all night, here are my five reads you can find on my bookshelf (yes I do actually have one) at home.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling (2011)
Mindy Kaling and I have a lot in common. We both grew up in Massachusetts, we're both nerdy, and we both like to root for Boston sports teams. From childhood life lessons to insider stories about Hollywood, reading her witty and thoughtful memoir is like catching up with an old friend for coffee and trading life stories.
A Separate Peace by John Knowles (1959)
Despite being required reading when I was in high school, this book stuck with me long after. It’s a coming-of-age novel about two friends at a New England prep school set during the Second World War. Even though the novel was written more than 50 years ago, its themes are still relevant to today’s society.
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold (2002)
This is one of my all-time favourites – it’s the family theme that strikes a chord with me. The story is told from the viewpoint of 12-year-old Susie Salmon who is raped and murdered by a neighbour. Susie watches her family from heaven as they deal with the aftermath of her death, while also learning to come to terms with it herself.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by JK Rowling (2007)
The story of Harry Potter was such a big part of my childhood. I was 19 when J K Rowling published her seventh – and final – novel in the series. The book focuses on the final confrontation between Harry Potter and Lord Voldemort, and the fate of the world of wizardry. It ties together the backstories of other characters and gives Potterheads the closure they need.
It’s Called a Break-Up because it’s Broken by Greg Behrendt & Amiira Ruotola-Behrendt (2005)
Who hasn’t gone through a crushing break-up in their 20s? Even though we know better, sometimes we just need a reminder of why things ended the way they did. This book is like a survival guide. It shares hilarious and helpful tips on how to pull yourself together after a broken heart.
Evelyn Lau is assistant features editor at The National
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