One of my favorite hobbies and downtime activities is reading, whether it is a book, an online news article, a cookbook, or a magazine. Although there are many different book genres, I recommend exploring all topics because it allows you to explore beyond your comfort zone. Who knows? You might even fall in love with a new genre of reading.

The beauty of reading is that it can be performed anywhere, at any time you want. Need some new reads? Here are some of my book suggestions for April.

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? By Mindy Kaling (2011)

This is a memoir about actress and comedy writer Mindy Kaling. The book chronicles Kaling’s thoughts on life, romance, and friendship. Kaling also highlights her experiences in Hollywood as a first-generation Indian American, and she discusses her observations on certain topics such as body image and fashion.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey (2014)

A best-seller, Covey’s book can be a bit difficult to read, as the language and insights are complicated. The book, however, relays helpful hints about succeeding in both your professional career and personal life by emphasizing the fact that self-renewal and creative leadership both contribute toward the process of growing into the best version of yourself. The book is great for those seeking to grow as leaders and individuals and improve the ways in which they present themselves in their professional and personal lives.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (1999)

Chbosky’s first novel is a #1 New York Times best-seller and it was adapted into a movie starring Emma Watson in 2012. The book is a coming-of-age story that chronicles the wild high school years, including emotional roller coaster moments such as first dates, family drama, new friendships, sex, and drugs. The story is one that everyone can relate to, as it captures the story of growing up and it reminisces about the teenage years.

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur (2015)

Poetry, for many reasons, is one of my favorite genres to read (and write). Poems offer a space for deep thought and they present a creative outlet for crafting thought-provoking narratives on a wide array of topics. Kaur’s collection of poems and prose digs into modern societal issues such as violence, abuse, love, loss, and feminism. Specifically, Kaur captures the common struggles between all people, including love and heartbreak, while also highlighting the struggles of young women today. Her poetry is inspiring and honest.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (2007)

Set in 1939 Nazi Germany, this historical fiction novel reads from the perspective of Death, who is the narrator. There is something unique about the way the book uses language and words to craft a compelling story that truly captures poverty and violence in a state of war. Though the subject of the book is grim, Zusak brings to life the reality of the topic.

What are some of your favorite reads? Let us know in the comments below.