Category: Books Recommendation

Who doesn’t love “Stranger Things” right?

The hit Netflix series has captured the hearts of many viewers with its nostalgic 80s setting, supernatural elements, and lovable characters.

If you’re anything like us, the most recent Stranger Things season left you aching to know what would happen to Hawkins, Eleven, and the team in the future.

The darkest season yet, Season 4 revealed the existential stakes for the main protagonists, their families, and everyone they know while focusing more on the evil power threatening the town and its history.

If you’re a fan of the show and are looking for more books to read that have a similar feel, here are 7 books like stranger things to check out:

1. “It” by Stephen King

This horror novel is set in the 1950s and follows a group of friends as they battle an ancient evil that emerges from the sewers of their small town. The novel’s themes of friendship and coming of age, as well as its supernatural elements, make it one of the best books similar to stranger things

2. “The Goonies” by Christopher Columbus

This book is the novelization of the classic 80s movie, “The Goonies,” which is one of the major inspirations for “Stranger Things.” The story follows a group of friends as they embark on a dangerous adventure to find treasure and save their homes from being demolished. The Goonies is another great book to read if you like stranger things.

3. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton

This coming-of-age novel, published in 1967, explores themes of friendship and loyalty as a group of teenage boys from the wrong side of the tracks navigate their way through adolescence. This novel has a similar vibe to the friendship of the characters in “Stranger Things”.

 4. “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” by William Kotzwinkle

Another popular book like stranger things is E.T. This novelization of the classic 80s movie “E.T.” follows the story of a young boy who befriends an alien who is stranded on Earth. The novel explores themes of friendship, loss, the meaning of home, and more.

5. “Firestarter” by Stephen King

This book tells the story of a young girl with psychic abilities who is on the run from a secret government organization that wants to use her powers for its purposes. The book is very similar to stranger things and it explores themes of power, control, and the bond between a parent and child. 

6. “Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline

This science fiction novel is set in a dystopian future and follows the story of Wade Watts, a teenager who becomes embroiled in a virtual reality treasure hunt. It has a strong 80s nostalgia and references to pop culture makes it a perfect read for fans of “Stranger Things”.

Conclusion

All of these books have elements that fans of “Stranger Things” will appreciate, whether it is nostalgia, friendship and coming of age, or supernatural horror.

These novels are sure to fix your Stranger Things cravings and provide an exciting and thrilling reading experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Last of Us series is taking the world by storm. This horror series starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey is without a doubt what you need if you’re seeking something to fill The Walking Dead-sized hole in your heart.

Based on one of the best-selling games of all time, “The Last of Us” is a show which takes its viewers on a journey filled with action, thriller, drama, and heart-wrenching emotions.

If you’re a booklover and a fan of “The Last of Us” who’s looking for equally bloody beautiful books to read, you’re in luck. Here are 7 of the best books similar to The Last of Us that you should check out.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

1. “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy

This post-apocalyptic novel follows the journey of a father and son as they travel across a landscape blasted by an unspecified cataclysm that has destroyed most of civilization. The Road is a touching and often brutal tale of love, survival, and hope in the face of unimaginable hardship. This is one of the best books like The Last of Us which fans will surely adore.

2. “World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War” by Max Brooks

This book is a collection of fictional interviews with survivors of a global zombie pandemic. World War Z explores the social, political, and economic impact of a worldwide zombie outbreak and is a must-read for fans of The Last of Us.

3. “The Walking Dead” graphic novel series by Robert Kirkman

The Walking Dead is a comic book series that tells the story of a group of survivors struggling to survive in a world overrun by zombies. Like The Last of Us, The Walking Dead is known for its rich characters, gripping story, and intense action.

4. “I Am Legend” by Richard Matheson

This classic novel tells the story of Robert Neville, the last surviving human in a world overrun by vampires. I Am Legend is a thought-provoking and suspenseful tale that explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for meaning in a world gone mad. “I Am Legend” is one of the first novels to popularize the idea of a worldwide apocalypse due to disease.

5. “The Day of the Triffids” by John Wyndham

This science fiction novel is set in a world where most of humanity has been blinded by a meteor shower, leaving them vulnerable to attacks from a species of deadly plants known as triffids. The Day of the Triffids is a thrilling and thought-provoking tale of survival and hope in the face of unprecedented danger.

6. “The Children of Men” by P.D. James

This dystopian novel is set in a world where the human race has become infertile, leading to the collapse of civilization. The Children of Men explores themes of humanity, hope, and the meaning of life in a world without the possibility of children. Although the book doesn’t have any zombie-like elements, the story of love and sacrifice makes it another great book like The Last of Us.

7. “Dawn of the Dead” by George A. Romero

This novel is a tie-in to the classic zombie film of the same name. Dawn of the Dead is a fast-paced and thrilling tale of survival in a world overrun by zombies. The book is a must-read for fans of The Last of Us who want to experience the classic zombie genre in a new way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re a fan of The Last of Us, these 7 books are sure to satisfy your hunger for post-apocalyptic tales of survival and hope.

From touching stories of father-son relationships to thought-provoking tales of humanity in a world gone mad, these books offer a wide range of experiences for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for something new to read similar to “The Last of Us”, these books are a great place to start.

Becoming a new parent can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of your life, but it can also be challenging and overwhelming.

From figuring out how to care for a newborn to navigating the ups and downs of parenting, there is a lot to learn and understand.

Fortunately, there are many great books out there that can help new parents feel more prepared and confident.

To help every parent out there, here are 7 of the best parenting books to read for new parents.

Let’s dive in.

1. “What to Expect the First Year” by Heidi Murkoff

This bestselling guidebook is considered a must-read for new parents. It covers everything from feeding and sleeping to development and milestones, and is a great resource for understanding what to expect during your baby’s first year.

2. “The Happiest Baby on the Block” by Harvey Karp

This book offers practical tips and techniques for soothing a crying baby and getting them to sleep, making it a great resource for new parents dealing with colic or other sleep issues.

3. “The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby from Birth to Age Two” by William Sears, MD and Martha Sears, RN

This comprehensive guidebook covers everything from prenatal care to child development, and is written by pediatricians who have decades of experience working with families.

4. “Parenting with Love and Logic” by Charles Fay and Foster Cline

This book offers practical advice for dealing with common parenting challenges, such as setting limits, discipline, and teaching responsibility. It helps parents understand the importance of setting boundaries in a loving and logical way.

5. “The Conscious Parent: Transforming Ourselves, Empowering Our Children” by Shefali Tsabary, PhD

This book offers an in-depth look at the emotional and spiritual aspects of parenting, and focuses on the importance of developing a mindful and conscious approach to raising children.

6. “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk” by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

This book offers practical advice and techniques for communicating effectively with children of all ages, which is crucial for new parents who want to build strong, positive relationships with their kids.

7. “The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Bonding with Your Baby, and Navigating the Fourth Trimester” by Kimberly Ann Johnson

This book is especially aimed at new mothers, it focuses on the postpartum period, providing guidance and wisdom on healing, bonding with baby, and navigating the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes new mothers may face.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to note that as every family is different, one may find some books not as useful as others. But these books provide a good starting point for new parents and can offer a broad range of information and perspectives on parenting. As you go along, you’ll be able to find which advice is most beneficial for your unique family dynamics.

In conclusion, being a new parent is an incredible journey and it can be full of joy, laughter, love and also challenges. Reading books can be a great way to help new parents navigate these challenges and gain a deeper understanding of their new role.

With a combination of practical advice, emotional support and inspiration, these 7 books can be great companions on your parenting journey.

Who doesn’t love Italy, right?

The country rich with history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes, makes it a popular setting for many enchanting books.

From classic literature to modern bestsellers, there is no shortage of great books set in Italy.

In today’s blog, we have put together some of the best books set in Italy that you should add to your reading list.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

“The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco

This classic novel is set in an Italian monastery in the year 1327 and follows the investigation of a series of murders. This book is one of the best novels set in Italy with a thrilling mystery and elements of historical fiction, philosophy, and literary theory.

“Under the Tuscan Sun” by Frances Mayes

This memoir tells the story of Frances Mayes, an American writer who moves to Tuscany with her husband and restores an old villa. “Under the Tuscan Sun” is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of love, friendship, and finding one’s true passion.

“A Room with a View” by E.M. Forster

Set in Florence and the countryside of Tuscany, “A Room with a View” is a classic love story that follows the romance between a young Englishwoman and an unconventional young man. The novel explores themes of social class, personal growth, and self-discovery and can be considered as one of the best romantic books set in Italy.

“Call Me By Your Name” by Andre Aciman

This instant classic follows the story of an adolescent boy and a summer visitor at his parents’ cliffside mansion on the Italian Riviera who fall in love. As they approach complete closeness, they are unprepared for the effects of their attraction.

“Call Me By Your Name” is one of the greatest love stories of our time and fiction set in Italy that has received praise from critics.

“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

This international bestseller follows the journey of Santiago, a shepherd boy who travels to Italy in search of his personal legend. Along the way, he meets a series of wise and mysterious figures who help him understand the true meaning of life. The Alchemist is one of the best spiritual and philosophical books set in Italy.

 “The Divine Comedy” by Dante Alighieri

Written in the 14th century, “The Divine Comedy” is a masterpiece of Italian literature and one of the greatest works of world literature. The epic poem follows the journey of Dante through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, guided by the Roman poet Virgil and his love, Beatrice.

“The English Patient” by Michael Ondaatje

Set in Italy during World War II, “The English Patient” tells the story of a wounded pilot who is being cared for by a nurse in an abandoned monastery. The novel explores themes of love, loss, identity, and the effects of war.

“The Birth of Venus” by Sarah Dunant

Set in Renaissance-era Florence, “The Birth of Venus” is a historical fiction novel that follows the life of a young woman named Alessandra. The novel explores themes of love, art, and the role of women in society during the Renaissance.

“My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante

The first book in the “Neapolitan Novels” series, “My Brilliant Friend” is set in postwar Italy and follows the lives and friendship of two young girls, Elena and Lila. The novel is a powerful exploration of female friendship, love, and the effects of social class.

“The Four Streets” by Cath Staincliffe

Set in a fictional Italian village, “The Four Streets” is a gripping mystery that follows the investigation of a young girl’s disappearance. The novel is a captivating exploration of secrets, lies, and the power of the past and is one of the best books set in Italy.

“The Leopard” by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa

Set in Sicily in the mid-19th century, “The Leopard” is a sweeping historical novel that follows the life of the aristocratic Prince of Salina. The novel is a poignant exploration of change and the passing of an era.

Philosophy is one of those subjects that might be extremely daunting for beginners.

There are so many philosophers and philosophies to choose from. From western to eastern philosophy, so where do you begin?

The universe seems to have an infinite number of unanswerable questions. But fortunately, through a philosopher’s work, we have access to their minds.

In today’s article, let’s explore the 5 best philosophy books for beginners.

This reading list of the best philosophy books ever written includes classics by great philosophers like Nietzsche as well as contemporary works by physiologists like Viktor Frankl. So, let’s get started.

A Guide To The Good Life

William B. Irvine explores the wisdom of Stoic philosophy in the book “A Guide to the Good Life.”

He demonstrates throughout the book how its wisdom and insight are still remarkably relevant to contemporary existence. Stoicism is presented in a new way by Irvine, who demonstrates how this antiquated school of thought still has relevance for today’s world. This is one of the best books for beginners as it begins with a brief history of Stoicism, then focuses on psychological strategies for embodying Stoicism, then applies these strategies to numerous contemporary vices, and concludes with Stoicism as a way of life.

You will get the impression that the author wrote this book to inspire people to reflect on their lives and (hopefully) not waste it pursuing wealth or status.

Renowned bookstagrammer Bjorn shares this book as “Few books have impacted my life to the same degree as A Guide to the Good Life.”

A History of Western Philosophy

A History of Western Philosophy is a brilliantly original investigation of the ideologies of prominent philosophers over the ages, from Plato and Aristotle to Spinoza, Kant, and the 20th century. It is regarded as one of the most significant philosophical books of all time.

First published in 1945, this book is ideal for all readers who are looking to get a brief overview of all western philosophies.

Lord Russell’s A History of Western Philosophy continues to be renowned for its thoroughness, clarity, erudition, grace, and wit. He chronicles philosophy in 76 chapters, beginning with the rise of Greek culture and ending with the development of logical analysis in the 20th century.

Meditations

For beginners, the finest sources are philosophy works that raise readers’ consciousness. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius is such a book.

Meditations is the private journal of the Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor.

The tenets of stoic philosophy emphasize self-control and resisting emotional reactions. Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations shows how he personally applied the lessons to his life and leadership. The book is highly captivating as Aurelius explains how to be self-disciplined, unaffected by influences, and emotionally in control.

Since it is a personal story, you can identify with Aurelius’ writing. It is without a doubt among the top philosophy books for beginners in terms of content and setting.

Best-selling author Ryan Holiday mentioned Mediations as the book that changed his life.

What the Buddha Taught

The majority of this book is an overview of Buddhist philosophy, which is surprising given how straightforward and sensible it seems. This is an ideal beginner book to learn about Buddhist philosophy.

The book doesn’t attempt to prove whether a Buddhist thought is valid or not, in contrast to other publications concerning Buddhist philosophy. Simply put, it clarifies the concept in order for you to comprehend it fully.

This is a wonderful reference book for philosophy if all you’re looking for is a concise review of Buddhist thought. Based on verified facts and the generally accepted interpretations of the many teachings, the author does a fantastic job articulating the core ideas of Buddhism.

This book will fulfill the desire to learn about the beneficial aspects of other religions, especially those lessons that are applicable to all people.

Man’s Search For Meaning

One of the most insightful contemporary philosophers on meaning and purpose is Viktor Frankl.

He changed the question from the nebulous philosophical statement, “What is the meaning of life?” to one that forces man to respond with his actions.

In this part-biography part-philosophy book, Viktor examines how we discover meaning by devoting ourselves to a goal, developing love, and discovering a purpose for our suffering.

Our lives have significance even when we don’t understand why, and as our lives change, our meaning and purpose frequently do as well. Viktor conveys this straightforward and sensible concept with genuine emotion and heart.

The bookstagramer mindsetsearch recommends this as a “Must-read for everyone… it will help you find meaning in your life…”

Final Thoughts

What purpose do all of these books serve?

When you think about how philosophy has influenced historical events like the American and French Revolutions and the World Wars, it is true that everything seems abstract and cerebral.

With its extensive historical and geographic breadth, one might not know where to start.

We hope there is at least one book on this list of the best philosophy books for beginners that will inspire you to think deeply and give you an introduction to the philosophical way of life.

You have completed reading a book, and you are in a sense of private awe even weeks after you have read. A book can enlighten, teach, influence and alter the way we think. In some instance we say “This book has changed my life!” While some books have changed people, there are certain books that have changed history, created wars, challenged societal and political norms, questioned our thinking, brought a purpose in life or we can say The Books that Changed the World!

There are 100s of books that have changed the world, and below we have put together a compilation of 10 such books. These 10 books are not of any specific orders and the compilation consist of novels, religious texts, history, science and political books. Enjoy!

• On the origin of species by Charles Darwin

A work of scientific literature that is considered to be the foundation of evolutionary biology which changed the way we think about the world. Even though the idea of evolution was present in some form which is traced back to Aristotle, it was Darwin who worked out natural selection as the mechanism through which evolution worked.

In the book Darwin explains that we are all netted together and how species evolved over time and gradually diverged. The book cannot just be considered as merely an Evolutionary Biology study but as a book which challenged the thoughts of religion, the theory of creationism, philosophy and politics.

• The Bible

The sacred text of finest expression of the Christian faith believed to be laws of God consisting history of the world from the beginning of creation to the rise of fall of empires and the day of Judgement. A book of proverbs, prophesies, poetry and one of the most influential and printed books in the world.

• The Quran

The sacred religious text believed to be revealed by God to the Prophet Muhammed which provides divine guidance and direction for mankind. A book of so central to the Islamic civilization that it’s believed by Muslims to be pure, unmediated word of God and immune from all error. It can be considered that it is in Islam that a book has attained its ultimate apotheosis.

• The Analects by Confucius

A collection of ancient sayings attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius on the ethical principle of human order: the relationship of family, moral values, social welfare and political hierarchy. The Analects has been one of the most important books in China which has shaped the Chinese value systems

• The Communist manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels

One of the most popular and influential political texts to be ever written which summarizes Marx and Engels’ theories on the problems of capitalism, capitalist production, the nature of society, politics and how the capitalist society of the time would eventually be replaced by socialism.

• 1984 by George Orwell

1984 is a dystopian social science fiction novel which has been considered as on the best classical works that has contributed to the understanding of themes like Surveillance, error of hierarchical class systems and the horror of political warfare. The book popularized the term “Big Brother” and many other terms used in the novel has entered common usage like “doublethink,” “Newspeak,” “thoughtcrime” and even “Orwellian”.

• I Ching

I Ching translated as “Book of Changes” or “Classic of Changes” is ancient Chinese philosophy text which is believed to be one of the world’s oldest books. I Ching acts a manual for rulers, a guide to an ethical life, it explains the important of patience and humility in one’s daily life and the two major branches of the Chinese philosophy, Confucianism and Taoism have common roots in the I Ching.

• The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith

Widely considered as the foundational work for classical economies and the birth of modern capitalism which describes how and what builds a nation’s wealth. The book touches the description of the workings of capitalism, division of labor, and productivity. “The Invincible Hand” of the book continues to be a powerful force today.

• The Second sex by Simone de Beauvoir

The Second sex discuses and examines the woman’s position in society and the treatment of women throughout history including the quality of femininity, oppression and what and how it led to this point. The book is considered as a major work which led the second wave feminism and feminist philosophy.

• Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.

One of the best-selling novels in the world which has become the foundational text for all fantasy readers, authors and influenced not only fantasy literature, but also in medieval studies, modern literature and popular culture. Tolkien has spent 12-years writing this epic high-fantasy of adventures in the mythical medieval land known as Middle-Earth.