January: Started 2019 with A Bang

January was actually a rough month for me. I started the year thinking I would immediately find a job, and when I didn't, my bubbly soul was a bit crushed. To fill the void, I thankfully had tons to read as well as lots of motivation.

I read a variety--a sequel from Carolyn Mackler, a must-read for teenage girls by Siobhan Vivian, and a sweet autobiography from popular YouTube vloggers, Cole and Savannah LaBrant.

I read The Universe is Expanding and So Am I first. I was excited and anxious to read this novel after reading its prequel, The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things. I loved Virginia's transformation in the first book, from completely hating herself to finding an acceptance of who she is as well as her boldness and bravery in becoming exactly who she wants to be. That transformations still continues into the second book, and I believe it evolves. She has more acceptance of herself, but like most humans, she still falters in her journey to self-love. Part of that journey is learning how to love others and allow them to love her. When she falls for a new boy in town, she is mesmerized by what love and being in a relationship truly means. Unfortunately, Virginia's life can't be simple, so parts of her brother's dirty past are reintroduced, her sister comes back into town with an unexpected "friend," and family tensions are ever-arising. I couldn't help but be surprised and astounded by the situations that take place as well as proud of Virginia's character for fighting for her right to happiness.

The List was the second book I indulged in during January. I had started it previously in 2018, but I didn't make it far with my busy last semester of college. I decided to just reread from the beginning and start anew. This book is one I wished I had read in high school, but I also have no shame in reading it in my twenties. I still took so much away. The premise behind the story is that every year a list comes out with the prettiest girl and ugliest girl of each grade level. I know, it sounds a bit superficial, but I think most of us girls can admit that looks matter so much when you're in high school. Can you remember the pressure you felt to be pretty, thin, or have your makeup look perfect? I know I do. Anyways, there is a new principle this year at their high school, and she is determined to find out who wrote it. The story unfolds by following along with each girl's journey, and in the end, I believe Vivian makes a distinct point about what defines real beauty.

The last book I read in January was Cole & Sav: Our Surprising Love Story. I've always admired their relationship and their firm presentation of their faith within their relationship, so that is what lead me to pre-ordering their book. It certainly took some time to getting around to reading it after receiving it (ya know, because of the whole busy college thing), but I am happy I started 2019 with a book related to marriage, love, and God, especially considering I had just gotten married the month before. I enjoyed reading their sweet, once-in-a-lifetime love story. You can tell they both care for one another, put God first in their relationship, and have such respect for each other. It was a very encouraging book for me in my new marriage, and I encourage other newly married (and even not-so-newly-married) couples to read it! I would also encourage single men and women to read this book because it is a great example of the relationship you should seek--one with a partner who respects and loves all parts of you, good and bad.