It was a good three years before I picked up another book. This coming from someone who graduated with two degrees in English literature.

It hasn't been easy, what with a global pandemic and the general anxiety about turning 30. When things don't go according to plan, you look for a definite escape. One that is non-judgmental, safe, and comfortable. And, reading has always been an escape. At the same time, it opens up new worlds, helps me write better or gets my creative juices flowing, and, shows me what humans are capable of.

So, when I finally got down to reading again, it was homecoming. I missed it so much. Finally, the pressure to only read books you normally see on lists like "100 books to read before you die" abated. All I was left with was a desire to immerse myself in someone else's world.

Here are some books that helped me end the reading drought and I hope they do the same for you, dear reader.

1. "Norwegian Wood" - Haruki Murakami

In all honesty, all five of these could be Murakami, but where's the fun in that? Norwegian Wood has to be an all-time favourite. I never have favourites when it comes to books because it all depends on my mood, the vibe, and the way they make me feel at the end. But, when I measure Norwegian Wood by these standards, it always tops the ranking. I don't need to write the summary because it is available practically everywhere. What stood out to me was the deep-dive into human relationships, a glimpse into Japanese society, and the quintessential anti-hero of Murakami's oeuvre. I love the worlds he creates. I love getting lost in them. It reminds me of how I feel when I watch Studio Ghibli films - lo-fi playing in the background, rain pattering on the window kind of feeling.

I highly recommend reading Norwegian Wood to lost souls who are just looking to find a way back to themselves. It is such a beautiful story, obviously well-written, and definitely memorable. 100/10.

2. "Purple Hibiscus" - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

One of the first novels I read when I was just getting back into reading, Purple Hibiscus is an excellent coming-of-age story set in Nigeria plagued by political unrest, depression, and oppression. Following the story through Kambili's eyes brings a new perspective to light. It will keep you on edge throughout. Since it deals with themes of religious fanaticism, psychological warfare, domestic violence and so on, it leads you on a tumultuous and emotional journey set in an unexplored part of the world. It is important to read about places and people you've never encountered. Purple Hibiscus reminded me of why I used to read and it will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a brilliantly written text, one that a reader will surely devour in a matter of hours, I know I did.

3. "The Unbearable Lightness of Being" - Milan Kundera

Kim Namjoon aka RM of BTS put me up to this and the following book. I can safely say that a big reason I got back into reading was because of my love for Namjoon, and his love for books. The Unbearable Lightness of Being is interesting. The most striking takeaway for me was the exploration of self. However, the self in question was deeply problematic in my opinion. Tomas isn't that likeable as a character, but you read to understand why he is that way. All the characters in the story reveal the duality of "lightness" and feeling weighed down. The novel places the characters in a sympathetic setting, which explains their erratic personalities. There's a lot going on in the story, complete with philosophical teachings that will help you think about your place in the world - and it does that with little fuss. It's a book you won't be able to put down, problems or no problems, which is what you need.

4. "The Vegetarian" - Han Kang

Another book I discovered thanks to Mr. Kim Namjoon is The Vegetarian by South Korean writer Han Kang. It is exceptional. It is nothing like anything I have ever read before. It shows a side of South Korean society you wouldn't normally find in dramas or movies.

The protagonist chooses to become a vegetarian in a society that loves to eat meat. The reactions from her husband and her family is what sets the tone of the story. It is dark, disturbing, and thought-provoking. I read The Vegetarian in one sitting, followed by hours of Google searches to find out the book's reception, other books by Han Kang, and why this book is so relevant. The writing style is so powerful that it made me feel like I was the protagonist and I was the one being subjected to the harsh criticism from those around me. I highly recommend this short book to anyone who is brave enough to venture into its abyss.

5. "A Wild Sheep Chase" - Haruki Murakami

I had to add another Murakami novel because I love his work. I'm not saying I love his writing unconditionally. There are some problematic aspects such as a weird fetish for women's ears (?). I don't even know what that's about. But, I have never read writing that is as engaging as Murakami's. A Wild Sheep Chase is no exception. First off the title itself is epic. The story is part of a trilogy, "The Trilogy of the Rat", and yes, I've read all of them - not in order. Murakami's story is wild, speculative, unpredictable. You never know what you'll get when you turn the page. It may not even make sense but does it have to? I loved reading A Wild Sheep Chase and other titles in the series. The nameless characters, strange plot, and scenes from Tokyo and other regions in Japan, so beautifully written, were all I needed. For a long time, my Sundays were dedicated to Haruki Murakami's novels. 100% will recommend to anyone who enjoys the absurd.

6. "A Room With a View" - E.M. Forster

Okay, hear me out. Classics may not be the best way to get back into reading but, you never know! Maybe, the intensity with which authors of yore wrote could be what you need. And, not only will A Room with a View help you get back into reading, it will ignite a passion for the classics. Forster's writing is not like authors such as Dickens or Lawrence. He writes prose that is approachable and accessible. It is vivid, with imagery and symbols that will make you feel like you're on holiday. I absolutely loved A Room with a View, it is engaging with spectacularly fleshed out characters. E.M. Forster himself had a rich, mysterious life, one that took him to India and other parts of the world. This worldview is translated in his writing. I would highly, highly recommend this one to readers who enjoy short classics with the occasional scandal.

For now, I give you six titles even though I could add six more. This list is in no way exhaustive. But, these are top of mind when I think of books that got me out of my reading slump. Each of these books is special in its own way. I hope that you find something within their pages that helps rekindle your love for reading.

This is part of a series titled "My Year In Books: 2022". Find more here.

Disclaimer: Opinions are mine, and mine alone.

Make sure to grab a copy at your local bookstore!