Books
What To Read While You're Procrastinating
We are all guilty of procrastinating. Heck, I even procrastinated on writing this article. I'd also be willing to bet that you came across this article while you were scrolling through Twitter instead of finishing that manuscript or article that's due tomorrow. Procrastination is an inevitable part of life, and when you're a busy person, it's easy to give into the urge to put your responsibilities off and do something completely unproductive. Sometimes, of course, it's time to kick it into gear. But there are certainly times when procrastination can be a good thing.
There are plenty of things you can do while you avoid your work. But reading is obviously one of the best choices. After all, reading gives you so many valuable experiences, and it feels so good to get lost in a good book. You'd really be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't take a few minutes/hours/days to read that book, right? Or, have you ever played the "just one more chapter" game with yourself? We all know it's never just one more chapter. (And that's the way I like it.)
So whatever you're avoiding—whether it's a job responsibility, homework, or housework — try these A+ books on for size. Trust me, whatever that "super important" thing is can wait until you've finished the last page.
1'Drop the Ball' by Tiffany Dufu
If you feel guilty about procrastinating, this book will help you feel more empowered. In this memoir/manifesto, Tiffany Dufu talks about how she learned that in order to "have it all" you don't have to do it all.
2'Romeo and/or Juliet' by Ryan North
Because this book is a choose-your-own-adventure, you can read it in minutes — or you can make it last forever. North has taken the classic Shakespeare play Romeo and Juliet and turned it into a a wacky interactive comedy that's a delight to read (and write?).
3'Saga' by Brian K. Vaughn
Graphic novels are great when you've got a lot on your plate because they pack a lot into a quick read. For something that will quickly capture your attention, try Saga. Two soldiers on opposite sides of an epic, intergalactic war have a baby. With two armies, bounty hunters, and more after them, they traverse a universe filled with imaginative creatures and unforgettable characters.
4'Gutshot' by Amelia Gray
Short stories are just the thing to read when you haven't got much time. This great collection from Amelia Gray will definitely push your imagination over the edge.
5'The Education of Margot Sanchez' by Lilliam Rivera
Sometimes, getting wrapped up in the thrills of a YA book is just what you need. And this one is stellar. Set in the South Bronx, Lilliam Rivera's debut novel follows Margot Sanchez, a rebellious teen forced to work at her father's grocery store after stealing his credit card. It's a captivating coming-of-age story about bad decisions, good decisions, and the winding path to adulthood.
6'The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making' by Catherynne M. Valente
Want to step out of the real world for a bit? This gorgeously-written fantasy will sweep you away. This is the story of 12-year-old September, who finds herself in a fantasy world that only she can save.
7'Lafayette in the Somewhat United States' by Sarah Vowell
It doesn't count as procrastinating if you're reading something educational, right? Sarah Vowell has the rare ability to make history interesting and funny. In this book, she dives into the life of the Marquis de Lafayette (yes, that Lafayette — the one portrayed by Daveed Diggs in Hamilton).
8'You Can't Touch My Hair' by Phoebe Robinson
If you're procrastinating because you're stressed, then a good humor read is in order. You really can't go wrong with Phoebe Robinson's fantastic book. In this collection of essays, Robinson tackles race, gender, pop culture, and basically all of life with her trademark wit.
9'All Grown Up' by Jami Attenberg
You know, if you don't have your shit figured out yet, that's OK, because as we see in this great book, nobody really does. Told in a series of short story-esque chapters, All Grown Up is about Andrea, a 39-year-old, single New Yorker who doesn't really have any answers and is just trying to figure out how to live her life. This book has got spunk. It's sure to delight you, move you, and get you thinking.
10'You Are Here' by Jenny Lawson
This new book by Jenny Lawson is like therapy in book form. Part coloring book, part advice book, it has Lawson's signature touch of candid humor and introspection.
