Have you ever picked up a book to read before bedtime, hoping it would lull you into slumber faster? If it’s a dry non-fiction tale, your eyes might become heavy by the fourth page. However, with a suspenseful story, you might accidentally stay up past your intended bedtime. Instead of opting for something overly dull or excessively stimulating, we present to you 10 books that can help you ease into sleep more effortlessly.
COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM 1968-1994 BY ALICE MUNRO
Overlooking the fact that some great writers are masters of this genre, it’s clear that short stories have concise plots, making them perfect to read while waiting for sleepiness to take over.
A COLLECTION OF NEW POEMS by MARY OLIVER
While some poets are the wild ones that make the senses awaken, at 3:30 AM, we prefer verses that soothe the soul, allowing the mind to drift to images of snowy forests, majestic birds. Silently marvel at the wonders of the natural world with Mary Oliver’s new and curated poems.
THE POWER OF NOW by ECKHART TOLLE
Short stories are the perfect balance for evening reads when you don’t have time for a novel but need something. Tharoor’s stories are elegantly written and imaginative.
Let an enlightened being help you release thoughts, breathe deeper, and transition into a meditative state where sleep can come earlier. Or, in the words of Eckhart Tolle: “Surrender.” Tolle’s The Power of Now is a detox for the restless mind.
THE READING LIFE by C.S. LEWIS
There’s a soothing comfort in knowing that we’re not alone in the analysis of human existence, as great essayists still do. C.S. Lewis’ The Reading Life will satisfy readers.
RHYTHMS OF RENEWAL by REBEKAH LYONS
In her book Rhythms of Renewal, Rebekah Lyons draws from her own battle with depression and anxiety to establish four vibrant rhythms that soothe the soul and make way for a flourishing life. Read this section and make time for rest, restoration, connection, and creativity to welcome a more joyful and rejuvenated life.
REST: WHY YOU GET MORE DONE WHEN YOU WORK LESS by KIM PANG
Pang calls it “Intentional Rest” and it’s the key to productivity, bringing more energy, sharper ideas, and a better life. The book REST provides a roadmap to rediscover the importance of rest in life with a compelling argument that more relaxation is needed to achieve more.
EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE by OLIVER SACKS
“Everything in Its Place” is Sacks’ most recent collection, published last year after his passing in 2015, and it’s an energetically positive book, perfect for small moments and helping you sleep.
THE BEEKEEPER OF ALEPPO by CHRISTY LEFTERI
If you want to calm your mind and reduce anxiety before sleep, then the best-selling book The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Sunday Times is a good choice. The speculative story explores the shattered lives of a family torn apart by war and facing pain, loss, and danger in the journey to reunite.
NO SUCH THING AS NORMAL by BRYONY GORDON
Author Bryony Gordon has released “No Such Thing as Normal” to provide readers with practical advice on dealing with negative influences on mental health. The book covers topics such as sleep, addiction, anxiety, medication, self-image, boundaries, therapy, mindfulness, walking, and talking.
GROWN UPS by MARIAN KEYES
Top 1 best-selling book by The Sunday Times, “Grown Ups” allows readers to immerse themselves in a different life, through the journey of Johnny Casey, brothers Ed and Liam, talented wives, and gifted children. The family’s life becomes positive when Ed’s wife, Cara, is shocked and unable to keep her thoughts and emotions to herself – uncontrolled thoughts lead to many unexpected events in the characters’ lives.
