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Between projects, homework, studying and required reading, it can be hard to motivate yourself to read for pleasure during the school year. With school back in session (or starting soon), here’s a few easy reads to keep you bookworms on track.

Books written in verse are fast reads by nature. Ellen Hopkins is a popular author, but I recommend One of Those Hideous Books Where The Mother Dies by Sonya Sones. After Ruby’s mother dies, her life is uprooted as she moves to LA to live with her father whom she has never met.

one of those hideous books

One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies by Sonya Sones. Image Source: Goodreads

The Outsiders may actually be on your required reading list, but if not, enjoy it on your own! It’s a classic that I read outside of class, due to my lifelong love of the movie, and I’d definitely read it again.

the outsiders

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. Image Source: Goodreads

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Only if you’ve read the rest of the series, of course. If you’ve been sleeping on this because you’re disappointed that it wasn’t a novel, here’s a pro tip: it being a script rather than a novel makes it an easier, quicker read. It’s perfect for between classes or post-finals.

hp and the cursed child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One and Two. Image Source: Goodreads

Miranda Kenneally’s Catching Jordan series. Any time I fall out of the habit of reading, I look for new Miranda Kenneally books to help get me back into it. Each novel is its own stand-alone story. The main characters change, but they take place in the same community, so there are small tie-ins. 

catching jordan

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally. Image Source: Goodreads

Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh. It’s a memoir that is half written story, half illustrated with terrible drawings. It deals with topics such as procrastination, anxiety, and depression (and many stories about dog ownership), but it manages to make you laugh like an idiot.

hyperbole and a half

Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh. Image Source: Goodreads

Re-read a book or series that you love! Sometimes going back to something familiar is the best stress relief. Comfort food for you soul. I’ve been eyeing The Hunger Games trilogy myself. (#TeamPeeta)

hunger games

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Image Source: Goodreads

Also be sure to check out our previous TGON Reads recommendations and reviews!