Which book to choose according to your mood?

"I don't know what to read". Haven't you asked yourself this question a thousand times? I'm sure you have —I can't be the only one...right?— Choosing the right book at the right time can be a real lifesaver.

Sometimes, reading is the refuge that welcomes us when we are sad, the spark of energy when we need a push, or simply the perfect company to share a happy moment. Sometimes you don't have to get it right. And sometimes you don't get it right.

What if we let our mood decide what we read? Let's test it. I assure you that it works almost always... Here I bring you a guide with recommendations for every moment, so you can always find the perfect read!

Besides, There is nothing like finding a book that seems to be made just for what we are feeling at that precise moment.So get ready to immerse yourself in wonderful worlds, endearing characters, and words that have the power to change your day.

Remember that you can click on the titles to buy them on Amazon! You help me a lot and it doesn't cost you anything extra.

1. When you are sad: books to comfort you

Are you feeling sad and need a hug (even if it's in the form of a book)? “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig It's like a warm blanket for the heart. This novel invites you to reflect on the value of life and second chances, helping you to see hope even in the darkest moments. It's like it's whispering in your ear that there's always a chance to change, and that's comforting.

Another ideal book for these moments is "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-ExupéryYes, I know it's a classic, but its tenderness and unique way of touching our souls make it the best companion for those grey days. Every time you read it, you find something new that touches your heart, right?

You can also try with «The Elegance of the Hedgehog» by Muriel Barbery, a mix of philosophy and sensitivity that will comfort you and make you see life from a different perspective, which is so necessary at times. In addition, its protagonist is so endearing that you will end up feeling a little more accompanied.

If all this is still not enough, you could also try «The Perks of Being a Wallflower» by Stephen Chbosky. Besides being a movie that made me cry, it is a book full of letters, reflections and moments that make you feel less alone, as if a good friend were telling you their most intimate thoughts and that helped you heal a little.

2. When you are happy: books that celebrate joy

Happiness is best enjoyed in company! And a good book is excellent company. «Pippi Longstocking» by Astrid Lindgren It is a story full of humor and positive energy that will make you smile from beginning to end. Pipi is the epitome of joy, her free spirit is contagious, and leaves you wanting to embrace life with the same energy.

If you prefer something more modern, "Normal People" by Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship, and will make you connect with the characters in a way that will leave you with a smile on your face for a long time. Plus, It's so real and close that you feel like you could be the protagonist., sharing those moments of joy and complicity.

Want something lighter but still thought-provoking? «The Summer Without Men» by Siri Hustvedt mixes humor and the importance of human relationships, perfect for those days of pure joyIts ironic and light tone is ideal for maintaining that good vibe, while you reflect on life, women and their many facets.

You can also try with Marie Kondo's "The Magic of Order"Why? Pure pragmatism. Because when you are happy, sometimes you feel like tidying up and improving things around you, and this book is ideal to motivate you to do it with joy! Since you are taking advantage of the situation…

3. When you feel anxious: readings that will give you calm

Anxiety can make our mind race without brakes. For those moments, I recommend «Ikigai: Japan's secrets for a long and happy life» by Francesc Miralles and Héctor GarcíaThis book has a super calm approach that will help you reflect on the meaning of life and find a little peace. It talks about how to find what moves you, and that can give you peace of mind, which you may miss… I loved it.

Another option is “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle, a book that made me cry my eyes out in Conil in the summer of 2015. Imagine the moment I was going through. Perfect to focus on the present and quiet that mind that doesn't stop.. His teachings on living in the moment will help you slow down and enjoy what's in front of you. A must-read, really.

It is also «Little Beautiful Things» by Cheryl Strayed, a collection of stories and advice that will make you feel supported and calm. It's like Cheryl is talking to you directly., offering you a cup of tea and telling you everything is going to be okay.

And if you want something more narrative, but equally comforting, "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari" by Robin Sharma It is a story full of wisdom that will make you rethink your priorities and find calm in what is essential. It left me a little cold, but it wasn't my time. Maybe it's yours.

4. When you need motivation: books that inspire

Are you lacking that little push to take the next step? "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert It is a journey of self-discovery that may be just what you need to dare to change. It's like having a motivational talk in book form! Plus, it will take you on such a beautiful journey that you will wake up wanting to take on the world.

You can also take a look at "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey, a classic with practical tools to give your life a good turn. If you want to get organized, this book will be like a map to achieve your goals. A classic among classics on this topic. I liked it.

If you want something deeper, "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl. One of the books that I have most enjoyed and that made me put small routine problems into perspectiveFrankl will show you how to find purpose even in the most difficult times. For me, one of the best books I have ever read and that has taught me the most. Perfectly applicable to my daily life. Inspiration guaranteed!

And if you need something more contemporary, “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferriss It's a great option to motivate you to break away from the established and dare to do things differently. Because, who said you can't live differently and be happy?

5. When you are nostalgic: books to remember and embrace the past

Are you feeling nostalgic? There's something special about that mix of sweetness and melancholy. «One Hundred Years of Solitude» by Gabriel García Márquez It is perfect to transport you to another time and let yourself be enveloped by the stories of several generations. The descriptions of Macondo and its characters almost seem like personal memories.

Another option is «Memoirs of a Geisha» by Arthur Golden, a story full of details and emotions that will take you back in time in a unique way. You will immerse yourself in a fascinating world, full of traditions and beauty. Highly recommended.

I also recommend you "Angela's Ashes" by Frank McCourt, an autobiographical story full of bittersweet moments that will take you from laughter to tears in the blink of an eye. The sincerity and rawness with which she tells her life is like a journey through time that makes you embrace the past.

And if you need something more hopeful within the nostalgia, «The Catcher in the Rye» by JD Salinger It is perfect to remember that adolescence full of doubts and rebellion, but with affection. I read it just a year ago and it's amazing how it transports you back to your teenage self.. Almost magic.

6. When you need to laugh: books that will make you burst out laughing

There's nothing better than a good book full of humor to lift your spirits! «Three Men in a Boat» by Jerome K. Jerome It is a classic of English humor that tells the crazy adventures of three friends and a dog. I guarantee you laughs and moments of fun. In addition, their humor is so simple and spontaneous that you can't help but feel part of the crazy situations.

Another option is «No news from Gurb» by Eduardo Mendoza, A hilarious comedy about an alien lost in BarcelonaIt's impossible not to laugh at Gurb's antics! It's a light and very funny book, perfect for forgetting about everything.

And if you like humor mixed with science fiction, one of the books I have laughed the most with has been «The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy» by Douglas Adams. I didn't expect it and I burst out laughing a few times.It's surprising and full of absurdly funny situations.

It is also "The Disgusting Ones" by Santiago Lorenzo, that with his acidic humor and his criticism of society will make you laugh non-stop, while inviting you to think. Get ready for laughter!

7. When you are looking for adventures: readings to activate the imagination

Fancy a good dose of adventure? «The Hobbit» by J.R.R. Tolkien It is an incredible journey through a world full of magic and fantastic creatures. It is also the gateway to an immense sagaIt's one of those stories that make you forget everything and feel part of the adventure.

Want more pirates and treasure? "Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson will take you on a journey full of mysteries, maps and hidden secrets. The story of Jim Hawkins is exciting and will make you dream of traveling on the high seas.

Another great option is «The Count of Monte Cristo» by Alexandre Dumas, an epic story of revenge and justice that will keep you on the edge of your seat. A true classic of literature that, if you haven't read it, I highly recommend. Get ready for action!

And if you are looking for something more contemporary, «The Golden Compass» by Philip Pullman It will take you through a world full of adventure and fantasy, with a touch of mystery that will hook you from the first page.

8. When you need hope: readings to lift your spirits

Do you feel like you need a ray of hope? “A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini It is a touching story that shows how hope can survive even in the worst of situations. It is one of those books that breaks your heart and, at the same time, rebuilds it.

Another book full of tenderness is “The Life Ahead” by Romain Gary, which will make you see the beauty of humanity in the most unexpected places. Its protagonist, a child, has such a pure vision that it will give you hope.

And of course, "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is a magical fable about following your dreams and not losing hope, no matter what. The search for personal treasure inspires you to believe in yourself and the universe.

It is also “The Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr, a beautiful story about finding goodness in the midst of war, which will teach you that hope can always shine even in the deepest darkness.

So you know…

First, do a little introspection and try to determine how you feel. Every mood deserves its own reading, right? AndWhether you need comfort, inspiration, adventure or just a good laugh, there will always be a book waiting to be the perfect companion.

I hope this guide helps you find the ideal book for each moment and that the pages of these stories become the best company. Because in the end, a good book is always the perfect refuge when we need it most.

What did you think of these suggestions? Let me know! And if you have a specific mood you'd like a recommendation for, I'd be happy to help. There's always a book waiting for you!