What should you read while Sheltering in Place?
Stuck at home with nothing else to do? Why not give reading a try? With so many different types of things that people can read - Books, Newspapers, Comic Books, etc. - there is something out there for everyone. Even though you can’t run out to Barnes and Noble at the moment, you can still order books online. Or, the next time you’re picking up essentials at Walmart, Target or even the Dollar Store, take a glance at the book section, and try something new. This is the perfect time to revisit a beloved classic, or try out something new. Whatever you are looking for, here are some recommendations on what to read while you are sheltering in place:
Read a new fantasy novel
Now is a great time to try reading a new fantasy novel. If you want to read every day, but not spend all day reading, make sure you select a book that is large enough to last you a month or two, but not too long that you will get bogged down with world-building and lore. Try and find something that is a standalone book, so that you will have a complete story from beginning to end. For this type of book, try checking out Starless, by Jacqueline Carey. Released in the summer of 2018, this sweeping epic is the tale of a young boy on a hero’s journey to fulfill his destiny. Set in a rich world of gods, desert shamans and crippled princesses, this tale will give you plenty to sink your teeth into everyday while you shelter in place.
Read an easy Series
If you think you may need more than just one book, now would be a great time to jump into a new series. Reading a series of books allows you to spend more time with characters you love and build more mythology within the world of the story. Sometimes looking for the next book in a series can be like a treasure hunt, especially now when more people are doing online shopping. If you are looking for a series that is easy enough to get through, and contains multiple book, try giving The Diviners a chance. This 4 book series by Libba Bray just had the last book of the series (The King of Crows) released this past February. Set in 1920’s New York City, this series has a very diverse cast of young people struggling with their individual and unique powers, while trying to save the world from an ultimate evil. The setting of this book brings a fascinating new angle to the trope of kids with powers. Often described as an American ghost story, this series sheds a startling light on America’s past, both the good and the bad. From the young poet from Harlem who can heal people, to the disabled Asian girl who can walk in dreams, this series has something for everyone.
Read and Explore
Want something with a little more heft? Now would be a great time to pick up an epic classic or series. There are so many wonderful fantasy series out there that are full of multiple books and even more extra materials. Not only can you spend time reading this book or books, but you can then enhance your experience by going online and checking out all the extra material out there. From wiki pages to You Tube videos, these types of books and series will give you enough extra material to look through that you will never be bored. If you haven’t read it yet, now would be a good time to give Dune a try. Written by Frank Herbert, this 800+ page sweeping epic is enough to keep anyone busy forever! Reading this book on it’s own can be a chore, so supplement your reading with all of the wonderful material out there for you on the internet. A quick google search of “Dune” will give you endless opportunities to learn more about the world of Dune and enrich your experience. If you are looking to dive deep and loose yourself, then Dune may be the right choice for you.
Read and Binge
Want to enhance your reading experience? Sheltering in Place is a great time to read a book, and then watch a movie or series based on the book (or visa versa depending on your preference). There are a lot of great book series out there, that also have multiple seasons available for you to binge on your favorite streaming service. For example, now would be a great time to read The Magicians, by Lev Grossman. Whether you want to read one, or all books in this series, you can follow up your reading experience by binging all 4 seasons that are currently available for streaming on Netflix. The 5th season just finished airing, so expect this to come to Netflix soon. Sometimes called “the adult Harry Potter” this series has all the fun of Magic School, but with sex, drugs and more adult content thrown in. Looking for something more romantic? Then Outlander may be for you. Written by Diana Gabaldon, this romantic fantasy has multiple books, and multiple seasons currently available on Netflix. A story about a woman who mysteriously travels back in time to the Scottish highlands, will leave you begging for more. Who doesn’t love a sexy Scot?
I hope that the above suggestions will give you some ideas on where to start. What are you currently reading while Sheltering in Place? Come share your recommendations on our Facebook Page - Kris Reviews, or on Instagram @Kris_Reviews and let’s spread the love of reading!
