There’s something irresistible about the idea of a fresh start. Whether it’s a new season, a mindset shift, or a major life pivot, change has a way of waking us up—and books make the perfect companions for that journey. Enter Reset Reads, a curated list of uplifting, soul-stirring, and joyfully honest stories to help you hit the refresh button on life.
These reads are here to remind you that beginnings come in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes they’re quiet and tender. Sometimes they’re chaotic and hilarious. But always, they’re transformative. So grab your coffee, throw open the metaphorical windows, and dive into stories that say: You’ve got this.
For When You Need a Gentle Nudge
Katherine May’s Wintering is a beautifully reflective exploration of the seasons of life—especially the colder, quieter ones. If you’re craving stillness and insight, this is the book that lets you breathe and be.
In What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama, a charming cast of characters finds exactly what they didn’t know they needed—all with the help of a mysterious librarian. It’s pure literary comfort food with a side of transformation.
Jenna Kutcher’s How Are You, Really? is a vibrant, real-talk guide to checking in with yourself and creating a life that feels true to you—not just busy or impressive. Perfect for those craving clarity and intention.
For the Big Emotional Reboot
The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley kicks off with a simple idea: one person tells the truth about their life in a notebook left behind in a café. What follows is a ripple effect of honesty, connection, and delightful messiness. A feel-good read that nudges you to live a little more honestly.
Dolly Alderton’s Everything I Know About Love is an addictive blend of memoir and coming-of-age chaos. Full of humor, heartbreak, and late-night revelations, it’s a reminder that growing up (at any age) is gloriously messy—and you’re not alone.
In Oona Out of Order by Margarita Montimore, time is quite literally upended. Oona wakes up each New Year in a different year of her life. It’s wildly creative, deeply emotional, and perfect for anyone who’s ever asked, “What if I could do it all differently?”
For Planting New Seeds (Literally or Figuratively)
The Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman is about a young widow, a gardening class, and the healing power of dirt, laughter, and second chances. It’s tender, quirky, and quietly powerful—like a cup of tea and a hug in book form.
Sarah Winman’s Still Life is a sweeping, joyful novel set in post-WWII Florence. It’s about art, love, chosen family, and starting again—beautiful, expansive, and brimming with warmth.
For Redefining Yourself (On or Off the Page)
In Out of the Corner, Jennifer Grey shares her story beyond Baby from Dirty Dancing—a candid, gutsy memoir about reclaiming your identity in a world that thinks it knows you. Bold, vulnerable, and inspiring.
And finally, Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes is a witty and touching novel about a woman rebuilding her life after the sudden death of her husband—and the equally unexpected arrival of a down-on-his-luck baseball player. It’s about letting go, letting in, and learning to love the in-between.
Your Season of “Start Again” Starts Here
These are the stories that whisper (or shout): it’s never too late. Whether you’re craving personal growth, a total reboot, or just a reminder that change can be beautiful, Reset Reads is your go-to guide for turning the page—literally and figuratively.
So go ahead. Pick one. Start fresh. You’ve got this.
