Feel Good Books for Your Mood
I love to read books, and it always puts me in a great mood when I read something that has an uplifting story and exciting plot. I’m the type of person who really gets into it, too, and I feel a close connection with the main character of whatever novel I’m reading.
I also like reading books that give advice on how to live a great life, and how to take things day by day. Since reading literature is something that puts me in a great mood, I thought it would be helpful to put together a list of some novels and other books that will have you smiling by the time you’re through. I’ve put some classics as well as some more contemporary works on here, so there’s a little something for everyone.
Freddy and Fredericka by Mark Helprin – This is a laugh-out-loud novel that follows the Prince and Princess of Wales on an undercover quest to America. Their misadventures prove to be hilarious and strange, and you’ll no doubt find yourself shaking your head at the absurd things they discover in their new lives.
One for the Money by Janet Evanovich – Evanovich’s tales of Stephanie Plum and her hard-luck adventures are hilarious and fun, and just the type of rainy day reading that will make you beg for more. Luckily, the series continues in several “numbered” sequels that will have you smiling no matter what.
Catch 22 by Joseph Heller – You have probably heard the adage “catch 22” before, which means, basically, that no real choice exists. The logic problem comes from Heller’s famous novel, which follows the hilarious trials and tribulations of U.S. Army Air Forces bombardier John Yossarian in his attempts to get out of doing his job. The characters in this book are ridiculous, yet real, and you’ll find yourself commiserating with Yossarian, surely thinking, “I’ve been there!”
The Bounce Back Book by Karen Salmansohn – This is a wonderful place to start if you’ve been feeling a little down and out because of the recession or anything else in your life that’s got your goat. Karen has a ton of great ways to “bounce back” from life’s little irritations here. For more about Karen, and her recommendations for feeling great naturally, including supplementing with SAM-e, check out my previous post on SAM-e Talk.
Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen – The Chicken Soup books are always great reminders that other people have tough times, too, and that none of us is really alone in the world. With several books in the series, you’ll find hundreds of motivational tales from real life. These uplifting stories will have you in a good mood in no time.
Marley & Me by John Grogan – It’s not difficult to adore your pet, but when a dog is as much as a handful as Marley, it takes patience and a lot of love to endure the ups and downs. This novel is one for the ages, and a great read for pet lovers everywhere.
This is only a short list of the hundreds of great books out there that were written with your good mood in mind. I’ve set up a shelf on the site Shelfari so you can find out more about these books. And if you have other suggestions for my shelf, I’d love to hear about them.
Do you have a comment? We'd love to hear what you think!
Do you have a question that we haven’t answered yet in About SAM-e? If so, please Ask Us a Question.
Comment Policy
We value your comment. Please see our comment policy for more details on our guidelines for commenting.





Comments
Melissa Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Thank you for this! I have been looking for books that make me feel better and you saved the day!!!
Lisa Monday, January 11, 2010
"the art of racing in the rain" touching and funny similar to Marley and Me. The difference is that this story is told from the dog's perspective. I loved it.
Gale Lennard Sunday, February 21, 2010
I agree that reading a good uplifting book can make a huge impact. I much rather read a feel good book than watch gloom and doom on TV.
I also loved The Art of Racing in the Rain. It's one of those books that I love to share with friends and family. Other feel good books I loved include:
The Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
Turtle Moon by Alice Hoffman
The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood
The list is very long and I love when I come across new suggestions. Thanks for this post.