Pictures of Recently Read Things

I used to be able to read through three to four books a month with ease. But, unfortunately, I've really strayed away from devoting time to literature over the last year or so. In attempts to get myself back into the habit of reading for pleasure, I thought I'd share some of my most recently finished books.

Girl Interrupted//  This book blew me away. I simply could not put it down, and may have even been guilty of sneaking it into work with me...maybe. It's the autobiography of Susanna Kaysen, following the eighteen months she spent in a psychiatric hospital. It tells of the disturbing experiences of the other patients, and her own struggles with being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Susanna questions reality, and the idea of sanity in a way that could make anyone question their own. It's heartbreaking, engrossing, and true. I'd recommend it to anyone, any day.

The Silence of the Lambs// This one was a read that I had trouble getting through, simply because it gave me the spooks. However, it was so thrilling and well written, that I was still very much pleased. It follows Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee, as she searches for clues about a serial killer. The case leads her to some unlikely help, a convicted murderer and cannibal, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. His insight into the mind of the killer is impeccable and terrifying. I won't give too much away, but for any of you who have seen the film adaptation, beware of the "crime scenes"; they're at least twice as gruesome in the book.

Blondie// This was more of a scrapbook, with captions. But, nonetheless offered an interesting view inside one of my favorite bands' career.

Ghost World// I re-read this just about every month because it is perfect, and so relatable. Best friends and partners in sarcasm, Enid and Rebecca, have just graduated high school and are now faced with a cruel taste of reality. Moving out, work, and all of the other joys life brings once you have a diploma in hand. It's dripping in angst and dark humor and I've never loved anything more.

Just Kids// This is the autobiography of Patti Smith, following her relationship with Robert Mapplethorpe. Smith's descriptions of the two's understanding for one another is nothing less than moving. Their time together was not always perfect, but to see such unconditional love play out, and to know these are real stories being told was amazing. The life these two artists shared together was poignant, honest, and beautiful.

Bang Ditto// I originally read this book during high school, after falling in love with Tamblyn's first poetry collection, Free Stallion. Bang Ditto is a book that I revisit often, and can read cover-to-cover in no time. It's a modern classic, in my opinion, and is so reminiscent of Sylvia Plath's work; which I absolutely worship. If you're a poetry lover, you'll definitely want to check this one out. 

I've got a few more books lined up to dive into next, but I'm always looking for suggestions. What are some of your favorites?

-Heather