BOOKS

Everyone loves a good romance novel. The bad boy struts into the room and picks the shy girl in the corner, and they fall in love. But sometimes these situations are not always realistic (although we can definitely dream). Here is a different perspective on these types of romance novels: any story has some kind of message and can have meaningful advice to help with our own relationships. Here are a few swoon worthy but also relatable romance titles to add to your reading list.

1. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

Victoria Markey, a high school senior, is grieving the loss of her sister and forgets how to live. Then she meets Theodore Finch on top of a bell tower who is also battling his own inner demons. They fall in love while trying to figure out how to deal with loss, life and death. 

What we can learn: This book gives a new perspective on mental illness from Theodore's own struggles and dealing with loss after the death of Victoria's sister. Overall, the story is one of love and teaches us to love someone as hard as you can for however long you can.

2. The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball by Risa Green

One day, Erin gets the news that her aunt has passed away and has left her a bright pink crystal ball, like the kind that predicts the future. She and her best friends soon find out that this crystal ball has powers of its own, including helping them find boyfriends. 

What we can learn: Live in the moment and take risks. Erin learned to be more open-minded which led her to go after what she wanted and find love. 

3. The Academy: Introductions by C.L. Stone

Sang Sorenson is a shy, quiet girl with a love for music and literature who lives with her abusive mother and workaholic father. When she moves into another neighborhood, she meets a group of friendly but mysterious boys whose mission it seems is to protect her. This is just the start of this swoon worthy series.

What we can learn: Sometimes, we don't get to decide who we love and that can be difficult. However, we can learn from Sang that it takes time to figure it out and accept ourselves for loving this person.

4. Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Lily wants the normal high school experience before she is thrown back into the world of tiaras and trying to govern her underwater kingdom. Little does she know, she is closer to love than she thinks.

What we can learn: Love can be easier to find than we expect. It is important to take a step back and examine your relationships with your friends. Like Lily, maybe a certain motorcycle-riding neighbor could be the one for you.  

5. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Cath is what any person would call a fangirl. Ever since she was little she has been obsessed with the Simon Snow series, but now that she is in college must navigate the real world instead of her imaginary one.

What we can learn:

It is important to go outside your comfort zone, which can bring new experiences and people into your life. 

6. The Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

Red v. Silver. The common people v. the elite. This is the world that Mare lives in until one day her destiny changes. Mare is now working at the Silver palace where she figures out her own powers. As she is just understanding the true nature of the Silver court, she must decide who she loves even after a deep betrayal.  

What we can learn: 

Trust in a relationship is the most important aspect. Picking the right person to be with and who to love can be challenging, which Mare discovers and learns from.

What is the best lesson you have learned from a book? Share in the comments!

by Emmy Villiger | 8/7/2016