Spring Break is fast approaching and besides a margarita permanently placed in my grasp, there is something else I’m looking forward to accompanying me on the beach.  And it is a good book.  There is really nothing like the feeling of placing your lounge chair up to the waves to tickle your feet, and slamming through drink after drink book after book.  Life gets pretty difficult when you mix hot sun with alcohol, and this is a fair remedy for a relaxing beach activity.

So here is a short list of books you can shove in your carry on, before you hit your fabulous beachy destination of choice this year.  And if you’re anything like a book-nerd like me, you will get through (almost) every single one of them.

1. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Alright, I’m a sap-I’ll admit it, and I can never get enough of those really gross romantic novels (so I tried to include only one of my personal favorites on this list).  Now, if you’ve seen the movie (just recently came out on video) pretend you never did.  In my opinion, the movie was painful, even with the charming help of Rachel McAdams. But the book? The book is a classic, and an exciting love story with a never-ending collection of twists and turns. To make a long story short (and without spoiling the ending) Clare Abshire falls in love with Henry DeTamble, a time traveler. If that doesn’t make things ‘complicated’ I don’t know what will. Although the book may get a little confusing at times, this story follows a straightforward love-story line with Clare and the ramifications that account to Henry’s time traveling curse.  You are constantly questioning whether Niffenegger’s accounts about time travel work with the book, but once you get past that, this novel is sweet and truly heartfelt. I highly recommend it.

2. I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell by Tucker Max

OK, before anyone starts yelling as me about how much of an a-hole the author is-hear me out.  I understand that he disregards social norms, gets drunk at inappropriate times, and ignores the consequences of his actions, but we get to read about them on the comfort of our own beach mat! This book contains the humorous and absurdly (honest) collection of Tucker Max’s true life stories from his life at law school. Tucker goes to Vegas, Tucker goes on a road trip, Tucker ends up in Texas, and Tucker writes one seriously funny book. And since (most of us) are in college, it is safe to say we can all relate to the crazy dialogue he and his college buddies hold throughout the adventures and his ridiculous take on life. BUY IT! I can tell you, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

Now, this recommendation comes from the more serious side of me.  This. Book. Is. Deep.  But on the other hand, it is a really simple read. The book is essentially about first impressions, how important they are to the human race, and how important they are in understanding the world around us.  The anecdotes about how the mind works are effortlessly fascinating.   The book grabs you right away and pulls you into such an influential scientific insight, you won’t be able to put it down.  I can’t imagine how equally amazing this book would have been if I was carting it around with me beach side – I read this in my 6 by 6 foot dorm room and could not get enough.  So I highly recommend you take the plunge into this seemingly intriguing read about our ability to make snap decisions and quick judgments. You won’t stop telling everyone what you’ve learned once you do!

4. My Horizontal Life by Chelsea Handler

I can’t express to you enough how out of control Chelsea Handler is. I’m sure you all are well aware of her popular late night comedy show, and her mild obsession with small people (Chuy, holla!), but if you aren’t familiar with her book sprinkled with stories, you must get reading. The way this women writes draws a swelling laugh through my chest, and it actually comes out of my mouth. Out loud. And I’m not even embarrassed. She is crude, raw, honest, and her collection of morning after stories are things you couldn’t even dream up yourself.

5. Anything by Chuck Klosterman (Sex, Drugs & Cocoa Puffs, Downtown Owl)

Nuff said.  You will tip over your lounge chair and the book may float away in the ocean once you finally stop laughing at the things this man has to say.

While I’m at it, since you have time to read up this Spring Break, why don’t you take this opportunity to read up on topics that pertain to your major, as well? As a college student myself, I know I would love to gain some insight about my field of choice, and what a better time than while your booty is planted in the sand!?

Time to get reading.

[There are over 100 million sites on the Internet. 100 million! You might think you know about all the important ones (CollegeCandy, Gmail, Google, Zappos...), but there are thousands of other sweet sites out there (like CoolSpotters, DailyLit and The Weather Stylist). And more showing up every day! We get it – it’s not easy or fun sifting through the crap and porn to find those gems, so we’re gonna bring the gems to you. Just sit back, kick up those feet and allow us to introduce you to the diamonds in the internet rough.]

We’ve all heard the old saying that it’s the little things in life that really matter.  But it’s easy to get so caught up  in everything else in our lives that we can forget about all those little things.

1000 Awesome Things is a nice reminder to appreciate the simple things in life.  The blog is essentially just a countdown of 1,000 “awesome” little things, posted every weekday.  Some of the things on the list will make you nostalgic for your childhood (like #805: the smell of crayons, or #660: Stomping dry crunchy leaves on the sidewalk), while others will make you laugh when you read them and think, “hey, I do that, too!” (like #777: Reading the nutritional label and eating it anyway–”Sometimes you just gotta read the nutritional label and eat it anyway.  Sometimes … you just gotta live.”).  Others, however, are just plain awesome (#765: Thinking it’s Thursday when it’s Friday, #861: Not getting a hangover when you were expecting to get one, or #983: That pile of assorted beers left in your fridge after a party).

And the site’s gained lots of attention; it’s been featured on tons of different news and entertainment sites, won two Webby awards and was named one of PC Magazine’s Top 100 sites, all of which has led to a book deal for author Neil Pasricha.  The Book of Awesome, (sounds like something Barney Stinson would write, no?) which comes out in April, features some of the most memorable entries from the blog along with a lot of new content as well.

So the next time you’re overwhelmed with worrying about global warming or who will get voted off American Idol and you just need a pick-me-up, turn to 1000 Awesome Things.  Its perfect blend of lighthearted humor and charm will surely make you smile and realize that you can be happier just by learning to appreciate the little things that make life awesome.

You may recognize the name Sookie Stackhouse from the popular HBO series “True Blood,” which was inspired by Harris’ series and characters. The book and the TV show are very similar; same characters, same situations. However, as I often find, the book is better than the television or theatrical interpretation.

Sookie is a completely lovable character. Living a simple life in the simple town of Bon Temps, Louisana, her whole world is twisted when a vampire enters the bar where she works. In Sookie’s world, vampires have “come out of the closet” and live among humans, sometimes peacefully, sometimes……not. Sookie takes a particular interest in vampire Bill and soon enough, they develop a relationship.

What I found intriguing about this novel is that Harris parallels real-life relationship struggles with the vampire-human relationship, such as the ever-present issue of different races and religions. Harris uses the vampire platform to demonstrate how couples of different races or religions face criticism from their community and their family and friends.

I found myself completely and totally lost in “Dead Until Dark.” Harris is a great writer; simple, but to the point. I could not put down Sookie’s story and often imagined myself walking along with her and Bill. As with all of my summer reads, the story and language need not be complicated for the book to be entertaining. I fully enjoyed “Dead Until Dark,” and recommend it to anyone who is looking for a more mature “Twilight” or just a supernatural summer read!

For everyone else who enjoys a good book on a hot summer afternoon, I’ve definitely got a doozy for you.

“White Oleander” by Janet Fitch is an older novel and made into a movie in 2002 starring Michelle Pfieffer. But PLEASE, for your own good, read the book first! My boyfriend’s sister lent me her tattered and well-read copy (thanks Danielle!) and assured me that it was her absolute favorite book. And I have to say, Danielle didn’t let me down. “White Oleander” has quickly shot up my list of favorite books as well.

The story centers around Astrid Magnussen. Without giving away too much plot, Astrid’s mother ends up in jail when Astrid is 15 and she is bounced around from foster home to foster home. The book chronicles her experiences at each home, but also, her experiences becoming a women. Without an solid role model, Astrid drifts along and discovers herself.

The book is dramatic and enthralling, but also so emotional and real – a perfect combination. It’s not exactly a light-chick-lit kind of read, but it is a book that you can easily lose yourself in and before you know it, an hour has passed, you’re halfway through, and you have a very unfortunate tan line!

I think love stories are the best example of the power of words; they strike a chord and tug at your heartstrings. As I’ve said before, the mark of a great book is one that can make you FEEL simply with words. So here is my list of the best love stories ever to be published.

1.Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

It’s a classic for a reason! Jane Austen’s timeless masterpiece about Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy continues to captivate readers almost two centuries after its publication. It is also a great read for anyone interested in history and the society of the era as that is a major player in the novel. It’s a logical love story, but touching and, again, classic!

2. PS, I Love You by Cecilia Ahern

Even though I’m sure everyone has seen the movie, the book is great as well! It is quite different from the movie, making it a worthwhile read regardless. This book is unique because it explores a relationship and love that defies even death. Holly learns to move after her husband, Gerry, dies, but realizes that she will always love him and he will always love her, too. It’s not only heartfelt, but teaches an important lesson that just because a relationship ends, the love may not die off.

3. The Little Prince by Antoine Saint-Exupery

This is THE most important book I think I have ever read. Ever. Even though it is considered a children’s novel, it taught me so many lessons on love and life. When the little prince talks about taming something, I understood that as loving and found the passage so moving, I cried. I keep going back to this book whenever I need some inspiration or to really FEEL something. I think if everyone read this book, we would have a lot more understanding and compassion in the world.

4. Atonement by Ian McEwan

Forbidden love is often the most passionate love as in Ian McEwan’s novel. This is another book-turned-to-movie, however it is 100% worth the read. McEwan is a beautiful writer, but the love story between Cecilia and Robbie really steals the show. Cecilia is torn between her head and her heart, a plot as old as time and I believe many people can relate to their relationship. It also shows those ignorant to the situation how truly painful denying your feelings can be.

Not to say I’m a total self-help junkie now, but I am pretty shameless about the fact that I read – and believe in – the healing power of self-help books. (Okay, that sounded unnecessarily cheesy, but you catch my drift.)

So, even if you’ve never snuck a peak at the Self Help section in Barnes & Nobles (or are just too embarrassed to admit it),  here’s some of my faves & some others whose street cred is pretty great, as far as self-help books goes:

1. You Can Heal Your Life – Louise L. Hay. I just recently started reading this one myself and I’m in love. It’s intense and has caused quite a few life-changing epiphanies, and Hay will seriously stop at nothing to help you create your perfect life.

2. The Secret – Rhonda Byrne. The now uber-famous Law of Attraction is explained in this simple, visually appealing, tiny book. And when you don’t exactly have time to sit down & waft through an intense self-help workshop like you’d get from something like You Can Heal Your Life, The Secret will totally suffice. You can easily soak up a chapter between classes or use it as a study distraction. It’s more exciting than King Lear, I promise.

3. Succulent Wild Woman by SARK. Or anything by SARK, actually. Her books are super colorful, easy to read and inspiring. She’s been through it all and has the battle wounds to prove it, but has basically turned out absolutely wonderful, if you ask me.

4. Eat, Pray, Love – Elizabeth Gilbert. Although personally I’m not so sure how I feel about a book with ‘Pray’ in the title, I’ve heard oodles of good things about this one. This book was basically a third appendage when my old roommate was chillin’ in our apartment between lectures.

5. The Red Book – Sera Beak. Recommended by one of my favorite bloggers, Miss Gala Darling over at iCiNG, this book is all about creating your own brand of spirituality.

6. He’s Just Not That Into You – Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo. Okay, this isn’t exactly a “self-help” book, per se, but it’s a pretty practical reminder for women out there that some men really actually do just suck (and there are NO excuses for them!).

7. Spilling Open: The Art of Becoming Yourself – Sabrina Ward Harrison. More of a journal than a self-help book, it’s filled with inspiring collages and scrawled messages from Harrison’s own mind alongside space to spill your own deep thoughts. Ch’yeah.

Know a good self help book you want to share with other CC readers? Talk about it in the comments.

That’s one of the reasons that I read teen fiction. It always has a great message and doesn’t try to be precocious. Teen fiction – written to inspire a love of reading in young peoples’ hearts – is written soulfully and simply. And I love it.

One of my favorite teen fiction reads is “Looking for Alaska” by John Green. This is Green’s debut novel and, in my opinion, his best to date (although “Paper Towns” and “An Abundance of Katherines” are great as well!). He writes from the perspective of a naive teenage boy, finding his first love. I find this book so beautiful and honest and, most importantly, quirky.

Green insists on all of his characters being a little off kilter. Pudge, the main character, collects the dying words of famous people, while Alaska, the main female character, named herself. The story is a believable and important one and the ending is simply mind-blowing.

Green’s talent as a writer shines through in this stunning debut, but it also maintains a unique quality that I only find in teen books – that is, poignant honesty and nothing unnecessary to the story. He doesn’t try to overcrowd his book with big words or intense metaphors; he simply tells a beautiful story, simply.

“Why Men Love Bitches” is as sassy as the title suggests, and that is precisely what I love about it! Sherry is hard-hitting, honest and, most importantly, RIGHT.

Now the word “bitch” comes with all sorts of negative connotations: rude, stuck-up, conceited and all sorts of other nasty adjectives. But that’s not the kind of bitch Sherry is writing about. In “Why Men Love Bitches,” the bitch is confident, not cocky, knows her worth and is not willing to settle for any schmuck.

Sherry empowers women and made me realize that I should not being chasing desperately after any man. That strips me of my dignity and I am better than that; in fact, every women is! If a man is making you run after him, you should turn your heels and bolt in the other direction. This is a clear signal that you will never feel good enough for him. There is a fine line between effort and desperation and Sherry definitely helped me clarify that and all my expectations when pursuing a man.

Seriously, this book HELPS. It sounds silly, but right after reading it I started seeing a guy that I had crushed on all of high school without him even taking a second glance. I didn’t have to apply any methods or use any cheesy lines to snag him; I respected myself and realized the prize that I am. And that made him see it too!

Any girl who finds herself constantly chasing after boys will benefit from reading this one. Sherry works on building your self-esteem more than your techniques with the fellas and in the end you will be able to find somone who respects and worships you as the goddess you are. With so much domestic violence in the media (hello Rihanna!) it’s important for women to realize that they are important, worthy and equal to men and deserve someone who makes them feel that way ALL the time.

This novel is a quick, easy read, but has a great story. Rose is an accomplished author and is exceptional at description, making you feel as though you are in the story. The beautiful settings of modern and ancient Rome and New York City are so vivid and vibrant, I had no problem envisioning the adventure taking place right before my own eyes. The emotions of the story run high as well and I found myself wrapped up in the story, cheering for the good guys and cringing when the bad guys got ahead.

The historical aspect of the book was also a real treat. Rose did her research about ancient Rome and seamlessly intertwined interesting history into her novel. Even though I am history buff and former history major, I found that I learned some about the Pagan religions of the ancients, and especially enjoyed reading about the Vestal Virgins.

Again, if you’re a fan of “The DaVinci Code” or “Angels and Demons,” “The Reincarnationist” will be right up your alley! Full of adventure, history and intrigue, it’s an enjoyable and satisfying read!

I first noticed “Dedication” at the bookstore where I work. I read the back – it sounded cute and light and had a musical aspect to it, so I thought I would enjoy it.

I visited my library and checked it out? What? I don’t need the other people at work knowing about my vice!

Basically, the story involves a girl, Kate, and her highschool sweetheart, Jake Sharpe. The book chronicles their romance, right from their meeting, flashing back to the eighties while keeping up with the present story. The turning point is when Jake becomes a rock-star while Kate goes off to university. Unfortunately he uses their relationship and Kate’s personal life as obvious inspiration for his songs and sends her life on a downward spiral. They eventually come back together after many years, and this is where the story really gets good.

Don’t worry – I won’t spoil anything. But it is just. so. good.

Unlike most chick-lit, Dedication is realistic. It’s not about a white knight riding in on his steed to save the damsel in distress. Besides the whole famous-rock-star thing, the book reads like a story from a friend. Kate’s emotions are real and raw and, sometimes, wrong. I find chick-lit is usually so safe; the protagonist does everything right, everytime. McLaughlin and Krauss take chances with their novel and allow the character to become more believable by doing so.

This book was a quick read, but differed from all the other chick-lit I’ve read in that it actually pulled at my heart a bit. I wasn’t terribly impressed by The Nanny Diaries (also by this pair), but with Dedication they’ve really stepped it up!

If you are looking for something quick, fun and totally chick-y, this is definitely the book.