Books
15 Books Every Single Girl Should Read, Because Independence Is A Beautiful Thing
There are certainly joys of singlehood. You have more time for friends, more time to drink wine and watch really bad/great television, plant a garden, walk the dog, call your mom, and read. Um... and obviously a million other awesome things that are just totally overlooked when you’re in a relationship. Listen, being single has its downfalls but surely there’s something to be said about spending some quality time with yourself.
Check out these 15 books that cover all the highs and lows of being single. Some will lift you up and other will remind you to chill out – that you are just fine, my friend. Single ladies around the globe will relate to these titles, including you. Keep an open mind and a smile and rejoice in the glory of going solo.
‘Girls in White Dresses’ by Jennifer Close
I can’t keep track of the weddings lately and it seems they just keep piling up. That’s just what three friends in their 20s struggle with as they watch their friends moving on and tying the knot left and right. Girls in White Dresses is a tale of singlehood in its finest hour – the dreaded singles table at the wedding.
‘The Edible Woman’ by Margaret Atwood
We’ve all dated the wrong person, eh? But, in The Edible Woman , a seemingly sane woman gets engaged to the wrong man and her world spirals out of control. The book is about gender stereotypes, alienation and, wait for it…metaphorical cannibalism. Yes, please!
'How Stella Got Her Groove Back’ by Terry McMillan
Sure, you might be single now, but you’d better start preparing for your soul mate. That’s just what Stella finds on a steamy vacation in the infamous book, How Stella Got Her Groove Back . You’ll be inspired by this tale of true love.
‘Eat, Pray, Love’ by Elizabeth Gilbert
They say that breaking up is hard to do. They are right. In this touching memoir, writer Elizabeth Gilbert deals with heartbreak by travelling the globe in search of hope and love. It’s an inspiring journey that will remind you that loving yourself is really the first step to happiness.
‘Delta of Venus’ Anaïs Nin
Wish you had a steamier love life? Look no further, for the great and powerful erotica novel is here to save you! Delta of Venus is so hot and steamy that you’ll forget all about 50 Shades of Gray – and many unworthy past lovers!
‘You Can’t Keep a Good Woman Down’ by Alice Walker
This collection of stories hits all the right notes. With tales of abortion, race and class struggles, and much more, Alice Walker reminds us that despite serious oppression, women can’t be held down. Preach!
‘Man Repeller’ by Leandra Medine
This totally funny fashion darling thinks she doesn’t have a boyfriend because of her wild fashion choices. In this satirical book she reflects on what it means to be a single (and later, married) woman while wearing man-repelling clothes. Think parachute pants, open-toe shoes with socks, and more.
‘How to Date in a Post-Dating World’ by Diane Mapes
All the single ladies, listen up. This book is for you. It’s a (sometimes funny) look at the proper manners of dating as discussed by dating experts. Hey, it’s worth a shot, right?
‘The Joy of Cooking’ by Julia Childs
Singlehood means free time and that sure is something that we all take for granted. Read The Joy of Cooking because you actually have the time to master the art of cooking.
‘Waiting’ by Ha Jin
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to love. It’s never easy to find the one. But in this deeply moving and subtle tale of love, a man must wait forever for true love. It’s a heartbreaking book that will remind you that things aren’t really as bad as you think.
'Going Solo: The Extraordinary Rise and Surprising Appeal of Living Alone’ by Eric Klineberg
This book is full of (encouraging) stats reveal that living alone is actually a lot better than you might think. It’s a friendly reminder that yes, just like your mom says, you are quite strong and self-sufficient. This book has the facts to back it up.
'The Sleeping Beauty Trilogy' by Anne Rice
Anne Rice is the godmother of erotica. This trilogy, long enough to keep you excited for a while, is magical and sexy. You may opt to read this trilogy while avoiding real life dating. It’s just that good.
‘Bossypants’ by Tina Fey
Read this book to feel empowered. Read this book to remember how to love thy self. Single or not, this gem is one of those laugh-out-loud books that will make you proud to be right where you are.
‘The Golden Notebook’ by Doris Lessing
Stop stressing about what you think you should be doing and who you should be dating, and worry about yourself. This is the ultimate piece of feminist literature and it tackles gender constructs and stereotypes. Though published in 1962, The Golden Notebook is still a guide for women everywhere.
‘Kiss and Run: The Single, Picky, Indecisive Girl’s Guide to Overcoming Fear of Commitment’ by Elina Furman
I’m not saying that you should lower your standards, but I am saying to keep an open mind. Can’t hurt, right? This book explores the accidental relationship sabotaging you’re inflicting on yourself. It’s a good read if you need to get your priorities in check.
