By Aditi Rana
Whether it was book-tok trends or your avid-reader self that led you here, think we can all agree that a good book is a valuable asset. And when it comes to navigating the complexities of relationships, the tightly-bound pages of self-help books have lots to offer. Experts who’ve written extensively on this subject usually offer both philosophical insights and practical advice, which in today’s fast-paced world offers an opportunity to slow down and take the advice one page at a time. Our selection of must-read paperbacks cover everything from tools to keep the spark alive to strategies for overcoming emotional challenges in today’s dating scene. No matter if you’re looking to deepen your connection or resolve issues, these books will surely give you some thoughtful and compelling guidance.
There’s almost nothing a well-written book can’t teach you.
This Is Supposed to Be Fun: How to Find Joy in Hooking Up, Settling Down, and Everything in Between, Myisha Battle
Feeling overwhelmed by dating apps, ghosting, breadcrumbing, and a sea of complications of modern dating? You’re not alone. Certified clinical sexologist and dating coach Myisha Battle reminds us that dating should be enjoyable. Her book offers valuable tips and insights for reclaiming the joy in dating, making it a must-read for anyone tempted to delete their dating apps yet again.
William Morrow & Company All About Love, bell hooks
Fancy more love in your life? All About Love by the late feminist academic and author bell hooks, is the book for you. By challenging gendered stereotypes in heterosexual relationships, hooks offers new ways to cultivate love through active foundations of commitment, trust, communication, and care. Her major takeaway is that love is a verb, not a noun, and must be nourished through our actions.
Picador Essays In Love, Alain De Botton
Originally published in 1993, Essays in Love is a timeless classic. On one level, it’s a novel about a couple who meet on a flight between Paris and London. On another, it’s a great philosophical exploration of love, its meanings, and it’s inevitable loss. Learn to love and cherish each other’s being. If you’re ready to delve deep into the intricacies of love, this is the book for you.
Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice On Love And Life From Someone Who’s Been There, Cheryl Strayed
The once-anonymous columnist for The Rumpus, who provided advice as Sugar to thousands of readers being the agony aunt to every reader, pens this beautiful memoir. Filled with insights and previously unpublished essays, she offers a wealth of compassion and hard-won wisdom on relationships drawn from her personal experiences.
Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations For A Lifetime Of Love, Dr Sue Johnson
Instead of focusing on romantic gestures or arguing better, Dr. Johnson’s book digs into the idea that a person is emotionally attached to their partner much like a child is to their parent. She introduces seven healing conversations, such as ‘Recognising Demon Dialogues’ and ‘Forgiving Injuries,’ drawing from her practice to help couples strengthen their emotional bonds.