Sometimes you stumble across a book that feels like it was written just for you. Not because it’s flawless or perfectly polished, but because it’s raw, honest, and a little bit messy—just like real life. The ones that stay with me are the books that don’t shy away from tough subjects yet still manage to make you laugh in the middle of it all. They’re heartfelt, funny, and unafraid to be vulnerable.
Looking back at my reads this year, I realized I’m drawn to stories that strike this balance: books that dig into life’s heaviness without losing their humor. Imperfect but brilliant. Here are three standouts I can’t stop recommending—whether you’re looking for your next great read or a thoughtful gift for someone else.
1. Over the Top by Jonathan Van Ness
If I had to choose a single favorite from my reading list this year, it would be this one. I was already a fan of Jonathan Van Ness (thank you, Queer Eye), but reading his memoir made me admire him in a whole new way.
What struck me most was how inspiring and deeply human it felt. JVN opens up about struggles, triumphs, and the courage it takes to show up for yourself even when life gets messy. It’s about resilience, trying new things, and finding joy in places you might not expect. There’s an infectious energy in his storytelling that makes you want to tackle your own challenges head-on. Honestly, I think of it less as a memoir and more as a pep talk in book form. If you need a pick-me-up—or know someone who does—this is the one to gift.
2. Life Will Be the Death of Me by Chelsea Handler
Confession: I thought I had moved past Chelsea Handler’s particular brand of humor. I’d read several of her earlier books and figured I had her figured out. Then I picked this one up, and it completely surprised me.
This book is different—raw, emotional, and surprisingly tender. Chelsea shares her experience of therapy, grief, and the deep work of untangling old patterns. If you’ve ever lost someone close to you, her reflections will hit hard in the best way. It’s still funny (because it’s Chelsea, of course), but it’s layered with vulnerability that makes the humor even more powerful.
This is the kind of book you want to pass on to a friend who’s had a tough year. It’s comforting without being saccharine and offers a reminder that it’s possible to laugh even when life feels unbearably heavy.
3. Like a Mother: A Feminist Journey Through the Science and Culture of Pregnancy by Angela Garbes
Pregnancy, motherhood, and fertility are topics wrapped in so much cultural noise—it can be hard to separate myth from fact, let alone find voices that feel authentic. Angela Garbes manages to do both in this thoughtful, well-researched, and refreshingly candid book.
She weaves science with personal narrative in a way that feels both informative and deeply relatable. It’s not just for new mothers, either. It’s for anyone curious about the complexities of pregnancy, for friends who are trying to conceive, or for anyone supporting a loved one through this stage of life. It’s one of those books that you want to dog-ear and underline because it leaves you thinking long after you’ve closed it.
For me, what makes it so special is the blend of hard facts and heartfelt commentary—it’s as much about culture and identity as it is about biology. It’s the perfect gift for the expectant mom in your life, but don’t be surprised if you end up keeping a copy for yourself.
Why These Books Stood Out
All three of these reads reminded me that the best stories aren’t necessarily the most perfect—they’re the ones that feel alive. They wrestle with complicated topics like grief, identity, resilience, and motherhood but still make space for joy and humor.
Books like these are a reminder that being human is equal parts messy and beautiful, and that laughter often sits right alongside the tears. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, comfort, or a deeper understanding of yourself (or someone you love), these titles deliver.
So if you’re on the hunt for your next great read—or a meaningful gift that goes beyond the usual candle or bottle of wine—consider picking up one of these. They’re the kind of books that start conversations, linger in your mind, and maybe even change the way you see things.
