Winter and exam-time are two extremely dreadful few weeks that happen to occur at basically the same time. Personally, I find reading extremely relaxing, especially when I’m trying to forget about the exams I’m cramming for.
I compiled a mini list of books that I’ll be sure to read during the winter season. These books are interesting, educational, and/or thought-provoking so they’re ideal for de-stressing an exam-filled mindset without fully emptying us of our knowledge. Keep in mind that I have not yet read these books; they were recommended by my friends so reviews/summaries/opinions may not be 100% accurate!
1. Quiet by Susan Cain
The full title of this novel is ‘Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking’ (which is kind of ironic). A few months ago, I started this book but unfortunately wasn’t able to continue reading because of school and other commitments. Quiet focusses on the psychology, lifestyle, and causes/effects of introversion and how introversion can actually help an individual succeed in life, despite popular belief that the successful people are ‘outgoing’ and ‘talkative’. Quiet is a research-based novel which makes it overwhelming at first but after the first few pages, it becomes super interesting and fun to read!
2. Monsters Under Your Head by Chad Sugg
Monsters Under Your Head is a book of mini poems that reflect on the confusion we all face in life. It’s an extremely light read and it’s very similar to a book of motivational quotes. This book is on the top of my must-read list because it seems like a fun, quirky book that’s not plot-based so I don’t have to read it in order (which is good as some plot-based books become boring at times!) 
3. Daughter by Janice Lee
The plot for Daughter is one of the most interesting storylines I’ve encountered: Lidia Yuknavitch summarizes the book saying, “There is a girl, there is an octopus, there is language, understood at the infinitesimal level.” As I have not read the book, this concept is very foreign and confusing for me. Overall, Janice Lee explores ideas of neurological, physical, and existential existence through a girl and her encounter with an octopus in the desert. This book appears extremely thought-provoking and highly abstract which is a form of literature that I appreciate and find enjoyable. 
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