Today is International Children's Book Day, and I thought I'd share some young adult book recommendations. Young adult books consist of characters aged between 12 and 18. They're generally aimed at a target audience of a similar age. However, as a 23-year-old, I still love young adult books, and I know a lot of adults enjoy reading them too. As it is International Children's Book Day, I wanted to share some of my favourite young adult books with you all because whilst a book may have a target demographic, it can be enjoyed by anyone. So, below is a list of book recommendations ranging from thrillers to fantasy to dystopian novels that will, hopefully, entice children and young adults to read, but also provide an older audience with enjoyment too. Shatter Me series by Tahereh Mafi Genres: Dystopian, Romance The Shatter Me series is my current obsession. It consists of six full-length novels and three novellas (each with two short stories) and is definitely worth the read. It follows the story of 17-year-old Juliette Ferrars, a girl with a lethal touch, as she fights back against The Reestablishment and uncovers secrets along the way. Shatter Me is fast-paced, action-packed, and full of twists. I will never stop recommending this series. Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo Genres: Fantasy Six of Crows is a duology I always recommend to those who don't know what to read or want to get into reading, because I believe it has everything a book needs. It follows the story of a group of thieves in a fantasy world where some have magical powers, as they embark on an impossible heist. The Six of Crows duology is multi-POV, action-packed, detailed and generally just a great read. HappyHead duology by Josh Silver Genres: Dystopian, Thriller Josh Silver's debut duology is a must-read for YA readers, and if you have read my reviews on HappyHead or Dead Happy , you'll know why. It follows the story of Sebastian as he joins a mental health retreat for teenagers, which he soon realises is not what it seems. This duology is humorous, fast-paced, and continuously shocking. I absolutely loved this duology when I read it. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson Genres: Murder Mystery, Thriller A Good Girl's Guide to Murder is book one in the series, but it can be read as a standalone — I haven't read the other books yet, but haven't felt like I needed to to finish the series. It follows the story of Pippa Fitz-Amobi as she tries to solve the murder of a girl at her school from five years ago for her EPQ, as she believes the convicted killer was innocent. This is also a BBC TV show, but the book is intriguing and very compelling with other ways of telling the story than just the usual prose. House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland Genres: Paranormal, Horror House of Hollow is a haunting novel that gripped me from the start because of the mystery throughout. It follows Iris Hollow as she searches for her older sister, who has gone missing, and along the way uncovers secrets from their past. I really enjoyed this book and found it to be dark, shocking, and intriguing. If you're a fan of horror, I'd definitely give this a read. Win Lose Kill Die by Cynthia Murphy Genres: Thriller Win Lose Kill Die hooked me from the first sentence — "I didn't mean to kill the first one". It follows the story of a string of murders at Morton Academy, which seem to target the school's brightest students, and the attempt at trying to uncover who the perpetrator is. This book was very compelling and is a fast-paced thriller told from the protagonist's POV, Liz, and the killer's POV, which makes it even more interesting. The Prison Healer series by Lynette Noni Genres: Fantasy, Romance I haven't actually read this series, however, I have seen it all over social media, and it is high on my TBR. It follows Kiva, a prison healer who is tasked with keeping the Rebel Queen alive as she undergoes a Trial by Ordeal, only to volunteer herself to undergo the trials, which no one before has survived. From the blurb, this series reminds me of The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner , two series I loved, so I will definitely be reading it. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas Genres: Contemporary Fiction, Coming-of-Age The Hate U Give is Thomas's debut novel that deals with institutional racism and the justice system, which I felt is a necessary read for young adults in today's climate. It follows the story of Starr Carter, a young black girl who witnesses a police officer fatally shoot her childhood best friend and her struggle for justice. This is a hard book to read because of the complex themes it explores, but I believe it is definitely worth the read because it highlights some important life lessons. If you're a young adult reader, or older, I hope you find these recommendations enjoyable. Until next time...

Have you ever suffered from burnout? Has your body told you to rest? Here are some tips on how to overcome burnout. This month has been an incredibly busy month for me. Not only in relation to work, but in my personal life too. I’ve had lots of uni work to do in preparation for my assessment period; I attended the London Book Fair; I went to my friend’s gorgeous wedding; and today it’s my sister’s birthday. Whilst March has been a mix of work and play, it hasn’t really left me with time for pure relaxation. It’s been quite full on. As a result, this past week I’ve been unwell and the doctors told me it’s my body’s way of telling me to slow down and rest. Hence why there was no blog post on Wednesday. So, as someone who has experienced burnout to an extreme, I thought I’d share some tips on how to overcome burnout and rejuvenate and reset your body and mind. Sleep is your best friend We’ve all heard the advice that we should get around seven to nine hours of sleep per night. But sometimes, life makes it impossible to sleep that much. However, I can safely say that sleep will help you. If you’re particularly stressed or suffering from burnout, getting some extra sleep, even during the day, will help your body rest. I’ve been sleeping this week and having days in bed to fully relax and let my body do nothing. Let me tell you, this hasn’t been easy for someone who suffers from productivity guilt, but it definitely helps you recover. Fluids, fluids and some more fluids Human beings need water to survive. It makes perfect, logical sense that when we’re feeling rundown and not at our best, water will help us recover. Sure, having a hot drink with some water in is good, but there’s nothing better for you than pure water. So, when you’re feeling burnt out, make sure you drink your water and keep on top of replenishing your glass/bottle. Find your comfort Every person is different and therefore, what we like differs. But one thing I’ve found to help me this week is finding things that bring me comfort. For instance, a comfort tv show, a comfort movie, a comfort music artist etc. By having something that makes you smile and brings you comfort can help you feel more relaxed and therefore, can help you recover. It doesn’t matter if it’s watching action movies or musicals, or bingeing television dramas or supernatural shows. Whatever you find comforting, embrace it and just lie down and indulge. No screens Now, I know this may seem counterproductive, given that I just suggested you indulge in comfort tv shows and movies, but this point is more about phones. One thing I’ve found has helped me this week is not having to look at my phone all the time. Thankfully, I don’t have work that requires me to be available all day anymore, and my friends know that I will reply to them as soon as I can. This week I’ve just been able to lie in bed and leave my phone without stressing that I need to keep checking it. It helped ease my mind and let me rest, which helped me recover faster. So if you’re able to abandon your phone, if only for a few hours, I’d recommend it because it could do wonders. Hopefully, if you’re feeling burnt out or particularly stressed, and your body is reaching a point where it’ll eventually force you to rest, these tips can help you. Until next time…

Save Your Breath by Kandi Steiner is out now and, having received an ARC, I can say it's a must-read for any sports romance lovers. One of my favourite authors is Kandi Steiner. Kandi has written a mix of standalones and series over the years. Her most recent book, Save Your Breath, is the fourth book in the Kings of the Ice series. I absolutely love Kandi's books and I was lucky enough to receive an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of Save Your Breath. The book is out now, it was released on Thursday 20th March. I absolutely it loved reading Save Your Breath and wanted to share my thoughts with you all. It is a sports romance, so it's not for everyone, but if you are a reader and you do enjoy romance books, then I'd highly recommend it. Review of Save Your Breath by Kandi Steiner Genre: Sports romance Tropes: Childhood friends to lovers Fake engagement Slow burn Hockey player x Popstar Forced proximity Unrequited love (or so they think) Overall Rating: 5 Stars Synopsis Save Your Breath is book four in the Kings of the Ice series. It is an interconnected standalone in that the characters do cross over, but it can be read on its own. The synopsis of the book is: "THIS JUST IN: HOCKEY BAD BOY AND POP STAR EXTRAORDINAIRE ENGAGED! That was the headline we'd wanted. If only I’d known the cost to get it. Aleksander Suter has been my best friend since high school—and the only man who’s ever been able to truly get under my skin. With his reputation for trouble and a smirk that could melt ice, he’s also the NHL’s favourite bad boy. When my publicist’s plan to fix my image collides with his need to clean up his own, we find ourselves in a fake engagement that feels too real from the start. Now, I’m releasing my new album, putting on a show for the paparazzi I usually try to dodge, and falling too fast for a man who never falls for anyone. Every stolen glance, every heated touch blurs the lines between us until I’m wondering where the lies end and the truth begins. And when a hurricane traps us together in his high-rise condo, all my carefully built walls collapse, and resisting the pull between us becomes a losing game. Suddenly, the stakes are higher than just headlines, and the risks feel more personal than ever. But as our past resurfaces and old feelings reignite, I realize the biggest risk isn’t losing my career—it’s losing my heart to the one person I thought would never be mine." Edit Credit: WriteWatchWork I love sports romance books, so it was no surprise to me that I absolutely loved Save Your Breath by Kandi Steiner. This book was a five-star read for me and this year, I promised myself I would limit my five-star ratings. Aleks and Mia's story is packed full of emotion and as a reader, I felt I went on their journey with them. Yes, Aleks is a famous hockey player and Mia is an international pop star, but they are also two childhood best friends, struggling to deal with their emotions for each other and trying to figure out life. This made them so relatable and made the story much more enjoyable. The main trope is, of course, fake engagement. I love it when a couple in a book has to pretend to be together, but because Mia and Aleks were already friends, it made it even better. The dual POV perfected this book because it really helped build the suspense by providing both the protagonist's perspective and the angst! Save Your Breath is a slow burn full of angst and I am here for it. It was so good waiting for Mia and Aleks to finally give in and admit how they felt. There is a little bit of miscommunication, and whilst I wouldn't normally like that trope because it can get frustrating, I loved this book. Edit Credit: WriteWatchWork Now onto characters. Aleksander Suter is a famous hockey player, who isn't exactly known for being friendly. He's known as the bad boy of the NHL. Having dreamed of being a hockey player, he moved from Switzerland to America and lived with Mia's family. Life hasn't exactly been kind to Aleks, but he is such a kind soul. There were times in this book when Aleks' emotions were really strong and I loved how we saw him as this strong, masculine hockey player, but also as a vulnerable man. He is charming, he can get what he wants, and he isn't afraid to use his looks or status. But he also cares and is afraid of losing those he cares for. The same goes for Mia. She is an international pop star, who has been wronged by her ex and his friend in the media. With an upcoming album scheduled for release, Mia wants to prove that she's not hung up on her ex-boyfriend. But the plan of being fake engaged to Aleks soon turns real for Mia as it brings up memories from their childhood. Edit Credit: WriteWatchWork She is a talented pop star with a huge fanbase, but she's also just an ordinary girl who fell in love with her best friend. I really liked Mia's character and watching her evolve throughout the book. She is funny and sarcastic, but also the kind of friend everyone would want. Mia and Aleks together worked perfectly and I really enjoyed their dynamic. The flirtation, the teasing, the banter, the spice... all of it was superb. Plus, the side characters, which included couples from previous books, and the couple of book five, were so fun to read about. Kandi Steiner has created a fantastic world within the Kings of the Ice series and I love it! It was a hard decision to put this book down and work because I just wanted to delve back into Aleks and Mia's story. So, thank you Kandi for the ARC. Intrigued? If my review has got you thinking about giving Save Your Breath a read, I highly recommend it. I would say, though, that I've found reading the other books in the series enhances the reading experience, so if you haven't met the other couples in the Kings of the Ice series, do go and check them out. You can find Save Your Breath by Kandi Steiner on Amazon here . Until next time...

The London Book Fair was last week and whilst it focused on publishing professionals, there was much to learn as a publishing hopeful. I attended my second London Book Fair this month. Last year, I decided to go to the event, not really knowing much about it, but with the hope that it would help me decide whether or not I wanted to pursue a career in publishing. Having enjoyed it so much and decided to pursue publishing as a career, I attended the London Book Fair again this month. But this time, it was as a publishing hopeful, intending to gain as much advice and knowledge about the industry and work in publishing as I could. Across the three days, there were many talks, some focused on getting into the industry. There was also a careers clinic for publishing hopefuls, where we got to speak to recruiters from different publishers and ask them questions. So, as a publishing hopeful, who knows that the industry is quite competitive to break into, I thought I'd share some of the tips and bits of advice that I learnt over the three days of attending the London Book Fair. Tailor your application When applying for jobs, it's important to not just use the same application for every role you apply for. You want to make sure that your application will stand out and be remembered. One way to do this is to tailor your application. Each publishing house is different and each imprint within a publishing house is different. There is no benefit to using the same CV or Cover Letter for all of your applications. Instead, try and work on making your CV and Cover Letter specific to the role. If you're applying for a marketing and publicity role, then the skills you'll highlight might be different to that of a rights' assistant application. The same goes for if you're applying to Penguin General vs Penguin Children's Books. In your cover letter, have a paragraph about why you want to work at that specific imprint. State if you particularly like their author list, if you've read any of their books recently, and what you can bring to that role. Be authentic to yourself This bit of advice is for those who run bookish social media accounts, such as Bookstagram and BookTok. I've only recently started a BookTok, and it was refreshing to hear other content creators' thoughts about this at the London Book Fair. Demonstrating your passion for books is key as a publishing hopeful because it shows you actually want this career. However, if you are a bookish content creator, one thing that kept being shared as the most important piece of advice was to be authentic. If you are true to yourself and show authenticity, it's more likely that you'll grow a following, a community, because people will value you as a person and as a reader. So, when highlighting your extracurricular bookish activities, ensure that you are authentic and aren't just copying others and what's trending. Being you is a powerful tool. Don't underestimate any experience At the London Book Fair, I met many publishing hopefuls. Some were graduates, some were completing their publishing masters and others were currently working in a completely different industry and wanted to make the switch. I'm currently a part-time student with experience in remote journalism, and I often wondered whether or not I needed to have experience in an office or working in person. But that is not the case. So, whatever experience you have, delve deep into what it actually entailed and what you got out of it because all experience is good experience. You will have gained many skills from your experience and they will be transferrable to different industries, like publishing. Don't think that if you worked in a supermarket or in retail it won't be relevant to publishing. Everything is relevant, so don't underestimate it. Don't be afraid to ask questions I like to say that I am a confident person and in a professional setting, I can be. But there are times when I do get a bit shy, however, being at the London Book Fair certainly made me confident. One thing I learned from that is not to be afraid to reach out and ask questions. If you're a publishing hopeful, I'd recommend joining LinkedIn because you can ask to connect with publishing professionals. I'd also recommend the Publishing Hopefuls Facebook group . Once you start making connections within publishing, it can be easier to ask someone if you can pick their brain. If you have questions, don't be afraid to ask someone in the know who can help. Yes, they might not have the time, but at least you've asked and shown your interest. Be passionate and resilient The publishing industry is a very competitive industry. I know a lot of people who applied to hundreds of different jobs before getting their foot in the door and I know a lot of people still trying to apply for publishing jobs, a year in. But if there's one thing I've learnt recently about being a publishing hopeful, it's that we need to continue being passionate and to also be resilient. Applying for jobs is tiring, especially when you don't hear back from each recruiter you've applied to. However, whilst it may feel easy to give up and take the rejection to heart, it's necessary to keep going. Every rejection is another opportunity to build experience and learn. We're not all going to get the first five jobs we apply for, but we need to keep going. So be passionate and be resilient. If you're a publishing hopeful like me, I hope these five tips can help you. They are things I've learnt recently from being surrounded by publishing professionals, and hopefully, they can help us all break into the world of book publishing. Until next time...

Next week is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, and to celebrate, I'm sharing a list of book recommendations with neurodivergent characters. When reading books, it's great to see representation of different cultures, ethnicities, disabilities, and backgrounds. Diversity and inclusion are becoming more and more prevalent in our modern world, and as the week of March 17th to March 23rd is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, I thought I'd share some books that include neurodiversity representation. It can be a challenge for non-neurodivergent authors to write about neurodivergent characters. But whether an author is neurodivergent or not, it is important to represent those who are in literature, especially when children's reading rates are on a steep decline. Reading allows people to see themselves represented and to find comfort in reading stories about others just like them. So, here are 10 recommendations for books with neurodivergent characters. Children's and Teens Book Recommendations Cloud Boy by Greg Stobbs Cloud Boy is a heart-warming story about a young boy, Bobby, who finds it hard to focus on one thing at a time and has so much energy that it lifts him into the clouds. The Boy Who Cried Ghost by Ian Eagleton Ian Eagleton has written a coming-of-age story that shares an insight into what having OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) is actually like and portrays it in a celebrative and inclusive way. Frankie's World by Aoife Dooley Aoife Dooley uses their real-life experiences to tell this relatable story about Frankie, an autistic girl, as she learns who she is. Wider than the Sea by Serena Molloy Wider than the Sea shows readers the story of Ró, a girl who struggles to make sense of words and hides it from those around her. Can You See Me? by Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott Can You See Me? tells the story of Natalia, an 11-year-old girl, who is just trying to fit in and break the stereotypes surrounding autism. A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll Addie is a young, autistic girl and is the protagonist of A Kind of Spark , in which she campaigns for her voice to be heard as she sets out to discover the true story of the witch trials that once took place in her town. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo Six of Crows is one of my favourite books, and the fantasy novel showcases characters with ADHD and dyslexia, which readers can relate to as the characters attempt an almost-impossible heist. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan The Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, written by Rick Riordan, is a Greek mythological fantasy series, but the protagonist of Percy is a young, neurodivergent character, who Riordan hopes can help his son, and others, find the positivity in their neurodiversity. Tilly in Technicolour by Mazey Eddings Mazey Edding's Young Adult debut, Tilly in Technicolour , follows the story of a recent high school graduate with ADHD and her co-intern with autism as they work together and discover each other's perspectives of the world. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time tells the story of Christopher, a teenager with Asperger's Syndrome, as he tries to find the truth about a murder, which turns his world on its head. Adult Book Recommendations The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang Helen Hoang's The Kiss Quotient is an adult romance novel that showcases relationships and the world of dating and intimacy through the neurodivergent lens of the autistic protagonist, Stella. Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert Talia Hibbert explores neurodivergent characters in the book Act Your Age, Eve Brown , with a mix of humour and romance to portray autism in an inspiring manner. Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston - ADHD Red, White and Royal Blue doesn't explicitly state that any of the characters are neurodivergent, but Alex, one of the protagonists, is believed to have ADHD, influenced by McQuiston's personal experience. The Cassandra Complex by Holly Smale The Cassandra Complex ( Cassandra in Reverse in the US) explores the story of protagonist, Cassandra, an autistic woman, who discovers she can time-travel in a neurotypical world. There are, of course, lots more books out there for you to read that have neurodivergent characters. These are just a few for both adults and children. I hope that if you want to read more widely and read books with diversity and inclusivity, you give these a go. Happy Neurodiversity Celebration Week! Until next time...

The London Book Fair is next week, and it's one of the biggest publishing events in the book trade calendar, so here are some tips on how to make the most of it. Last year, I went to the London Book Fair for the first time. I didn't know what to expect. I didn't know anyone else going, and I felt out of my depth because I wasn't a publishing professional. Fast forward 12 months, and I still don't know anyone going, and I also am not a publishing professional. However, I am a Creative Writing student writing a novel and a publishing hopeful. After my first visit to the London Book Fair, I knew immediately that I wanted to go back again. I may not have meetings set up or clients to see, but there is still plenty more for me to get up to as a student attendee. But I know it can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. Therefore, I thought I'd share some tips on how to make the most of your visit to the London Book Fair, based on my experience last year. Know the location Credit: WriteWatchWork The London Book Fair takes place at the Olympia in West Kensington, London. It's a big event venue, but if you've never been there before, it can be challenging to get to. Before the event, it would be useful to know the whereabouts of the Olympia and where the entrances are. Last year, before each day, people had to queue outside the venue, so getting there early and knowing where the doors are will save you time. Another thing to factor in is travel. If you don't live in London, you'll most likely be travelling in each day, unless you're staying somewhere nearby. There are some tube stations close to the Olympia, but I would recommend planning your route to the venue and making sure you know which tubes you need to get on and at what time, so you get to the London Book Fair right on time. Use a map Credit: WriteWatchWork This tip came in really handy for me last year because the Olympia is a big venue. It spans two floors, and there are a lot of stalls and different areas allocated for different things on both. If it's your first time attending the London Book Fair, I would definitely recommend printing out a map of the venue or having a digital copy. That way, each day, you can quickly look up where the different things are, from talks to the toilets, so you don't spend ages walking around in circles, lost. List the talks and times Credit: WriteWatchWork Across the three days of the London Book Fair, there are multiple talks in different areas at different times. If you want to attend any of the talks, it might be handy to have a list of the different ones, where they are and at what time they are. You can find out what the talks are by visiting the London Book Fair's website. They have a list for each day, giving a brief description and stating who is giving the talk. Note the exhibitor locations Credit: WriteWatchWork As the London Book Fair is a trade publishing event, most of the Olympia will be used for exhibitor stalls. These are different publishers, agencies, and other publishing companies. Whilst the majority of these will be conducting meetings, there might be brief moments when people at the stands are available for a quick chat. In that case, especially for publishing hopefuls, if you'd like to pick the brains of certain exhibitors, make a note of where they will be located within the venue. Last year, there was a separate Children's Publishing area, which made it easier to locate publishers, such as Usborne, Walker Books and Nosy Crow. Stationery Credit: WriteWatchWork I absolutely love stationery. I have a whole box dedicated to stationery in my office, so when attending the London Book Fair, I will definitely be making sure I've got the right equipment. I'm attending LBF as a student with a plan of attending talks for publishing hopefuls and authors, as well as hoping to pick the brains of publishing professionals. For me, I don't have any necessary paperwork I need to bring for meetings. However, I will be bringing a new notepad, a few pens and some business cards with me. Ensuring you have a notebook will make it easier to take notes when attending talks, and if you're able to network, it could be a good place to jot down some important contact info. Careers Clinic Credit: WriteWatchWork This next tip is definitely for publishing hopefuls. Book Careers, run by Suzanne Collier, runs a careers clinic on the Thursday of the London Book Fair. I attended the clinic last year, and I've booked my place to do so again. You have to have a ticket to LBF in order to attend, so if you are going to LBF and are a publishing hopeful, I'd definitely recommend attending the careers clinic. There will be staff from different publishers, such as Hachette, Simon & Schuster, Walker Books, Springer Nature, and Bloomsbury. So, if you have a copy of your CV ready and a note of some questions you'd like to ask about job applications, recruitment, etc., then this is your chance to get some feedback from publishing professionals. Get the LBF25 app Credit: The London Book Fair My final tip for attending the London Book Fair is to download the app. LBF25 contains all the information you need to know about what is going on at the London Book Fair. It has the seminar list, exhibitor list, and floorplan of the venue, and it allows you to bookmark different talks you want to attend. It is a really handy app to have over the course of the three days, so if you are attending the London Book Fair, be sure to download it. I am attending all three days of the fair; if you're going, I'd love to meet you and have a chat. Hopefully, these tips can help you feel more prepared and make it less daunting. Until next time...

Thursday, 6th March is World Book Day, and this year, the theme is 'Read Your Way', making reading fun for the individual. As a child, one of the highlights of school was World Book Day. We got to dress up as our favourite book characters and revel in the joy of books. This Thursday, tomorrow, it is World Book Day, and for 2025, the theme is 'Read Your Way'. What the theme means is that we should encourage reading among children, but tailor it to each individual's needs to increase the pleasure of reading. Towards the end of last year, it was made known that there has been a significant decline in reading among children. Sky News reported it as a 'National crisis', and The Bookseller reported that the enjoyment of reading among children and young people has fallen to its lowest record in almost two decades. Personally, I find it sad that less and less people are finding joy in reading, which is why I'm writing this blog post to share tips on how to increase the joy of reading for the individual. So, if you or your child want to enjoy reading more or want to start reading, here are some ways that you can read your way. Find your joy The worst thing that could happen is being forced to read something that you don't enjoy. One of the major reasons children fall out of love with reading is that in school, they're told what to read, when to read it, and how to analyse it. But outside of school and as you get older, you should be able to read what you want to. So finding what you like and what makes you happy is key. For some, it's a certain genre. Or it could be a certain type of book, whether that's fiction or non-fiction. If you're a visual person, graphic novels could be right up your alley. If you prefer magical worlds, vastly different from our own, fantasy could be the genre for you. And it doesn't even have to relate to the genre. It could be how the story is told, with one or multiple narrators, or through letters and not just standard prose. There are so many different variations in books that there is something for everyone. You've just got to find what yo u enjoy. Listen to audiobooks This tip is similar to the above. But if you find reading a novel, holding it in your hands, and physically turning the pages tedious, perhaps audiobooks are right for you. So many books nowadays are published in audiobook form, and it can be great for when you're on the go or for children who have difficulty reading and understanding the written form. I personally haven't listened to many audiobooks, but I do envy those who devour audiobooks like I do physical books. So, if you're not really a visual person but more of an audible reader, give an audiobook a try. Whenever, wherever As I mentioned earlier, reading can become tedious, especially for children, when they're instructed what to read, when to read it and where to read it. But reading is a hobby that can be done anywhere: in bed, on a sofa, on the Tube, and even on a treadmill. If you struggle to find the time to read, and you're sick of having to read at your desk or somewhere uncomfortable, perhaps try to create a reading nook. Find a space where you can relax and snuggle up with a good book. Try and read if you've got a long commute (and aren't driving). Read in the morning. Read in the afternoon. Read at whatever time of day you prefer. Explore a series I love a good standalone book, but there is something special about diving into a series and reading and exploring familiar characters' lives. For children, it could be a great idea to start them off with book one in a series because they'll get to meet a character, and if they like the character and enjoy the book, they can stick with them throughout the series. A great example would be Harry Potter or even Percy Jackson. Buddy read This tip is one I've never actually got around to doing, and it's buddy reading. The idea is that you and a friend read the same book at the same time, in tandem, and then you can discuss the book as you go along. This can be a great way to get children reading more if they read along with a buddy, but it's also great for adults, too. I know a lot of book influencers do buddy reads on social media, and it's always something I've wanted to do, too. Buddy reading means you can chat about the book and share your enjoyment, or disappointment, about what's happening in the story. You can bounce off your buddy with ideas and opinions and share the fun of reading together. World Book Day is an event we should all celebrate because books are doors to other worlds, and they have so many benefits, not only in providing fun and escapism but also in increasing intelligence and communication skills. So, if you're not much of a reader, or if you want to get back into reading, I hope the above tips help you find pleasure in opening a book again. Until next time...

Do you enjoy your work? Or do you look at others with envy? I've got some tips for National Careers Week to help you decide if your career is right for you. March 3rd to March 8th is National Careers Week in the United Kingdom. This means there's a whole week dedicated to promoting career guidance. Throughout our early education, we're taught to start thinking about what we want our lives to look like when we grow up. To think about what job we would like. Students need to start thinking about their future careers if they want to go into medicine, the creative arts, or some field/industry that requires specific subjects. I used to want to be a doctor. I bought myself a medical encyclopaedia, attended an aspiring doctors event at UCL, and even received a surgeon's hat, gloves, and mask from my surgeon when I was in hospital. However, I soon realised that while I loved helping people and bringing them joy, being a doctor wasn't the right career for me. After the pandemic, I tried my hand at journalism. I've always loved writing (hence the blog), and the years I spent as a journalist were amazing. My skill set grew immensely, as did my network and my confidence. I wrote articles for different industries, from fashion to motorsport, but it wasn't until recently that I made another career decision. Journalism, while I loved it, wasn't my end goal. Instead, I knew I wanted to work with books and one day, hopefully, publish my novel. But how did I know that these previous careers weren't for me? What made me decide to change course? Below are some tips that I think are useful in helping one determine if a career or industry is right for them. These aren't industry-specific; they can be applied to any career path and any person. Passion, Passion, Passion One piece of advice that I live by is that if you don't enjoy your work, if you don't have a passion for what you're doing, why are you doing it? Now, I know that sometimes it's not that easy because if you have responsibilities, such as a family, mortgage, etc., then it's not easy to change jobs. But, if you have a passion for it, it makes working a whole lot more enjoyable. You don't have to enjoy every aspect of your job — I don't think anybody does — but if you are passionate about what you do, that's a good indicator you're on the right path. Structure vs Flexibility Freelance vs corporate. That is the question. When it comes to getting a job, there are lots of things to consider. For example, does the position require shift work, or is it a strict 9-5? Are you able to take holiday when you want it, or are there specific periods you're not allowed? Every person is different in what they would like to get out of a job. Some prefer the structure of a 9-5 job, knowing that they'll work specific hours and can leave their work alone in the evenings or at weekends. However, some people prefer the flexibility of setting their hours, working to their schedule and being able to take time off when necessary if something pops up. And that's why they work freelance. If you do have a preference over what method of work is better for you, think about what potential careers that could give you. A balanced lifestyle I am no stranger to burnout. In fact, I tend to get burnt out a lot more than I'd like, and it's because in the roles I was doing, I had too much to juggle and not enough hands to keep all the balls in the air. When you're in the best job for you and on the best career path, you should be able to have a balanced lifestyle. Sometimes, though, it can be difficult to maintain a work-life balance. If you find yourself being swamped with work, feeling very tired and stressed, and not having enough time to take care of yourself, then think about whether what you're doing is the best choice. Excitement or Sunday Scaries There's often a feeling of dread for some people on a Sunday night before they have to go to work on Monday. This has been named the 'Sunday Scaries. ' If you're someone who experiences the Sunday Scaries before the start of the working week, it may be that the position you have isn't the ideal one for you. However, if you're the opposite, and you find yourself getting excited about going to work and what lies ahead, that's a good indicator that your work inspires you and excites you. Comfortable with the surroundings The last bit of advice is one crucial to any industry and focuses more on the environment. Whether you work 9-5, are a freelancer, or work in an office, one of the biggest factors that can impact your enjoyment is the environment you work in, particularly your colleagues. If, in your job, you find yourself not feeling like you can be your true self and a bit uncomfortable, that's usually an indicator that it's not the best place for you. When you feel like this, it can also impact your performance and give you the Sunday Scaries, especially if you don't like where you work. Sometimes, it is difficult to change the environment, but if you're not completely comfortable in your job, maybe reflect on the reasons why and if it's the job itself, or just the environment. I hope these tips can help inform you whether or not your career is right for you. At the end of the day, it's up to you, and only you, to make the decision of what you want to do in life. Don't chase the money, chase the enjoyment and the happiness you get from your work. Until next time...

Working from home has its perks, but there are also some downsides depending on individual situations, which is why joining a gym could provide many benefits. My working life and my university studies all require me to, at the moment, work from home. I don't have to leave the house to get work done because it is all remotely achievable. However, whilst working from home is a preferred choice for some and does have its benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider. For instance, it can be incredibly easy to be rather sedentary during the working day, if you have no reason to get up and move about. You may do some home workout routines, but even those can be challenging, especially if you don't have lots of equipment, it's too hot or too cold and dark in the winter, and it limits your interactions with others. I have always wanted to be someone who could work out from home, and while I do occasionally, the weather impacts my routine. If I'm working from home, I tend to continue working longer hours and say, 'I don't have time to work out'. But, for 2025, I've decided to join a local leisure centre. I've signed up and paid for a membership, which includes access to the gym, classes, the swimming pool, and activities, such as badminton. This leisure centre offers a lot of variety in terms of working out, and knowing I've paid for a membership and have somewhere to go, I'm finding myself sticking to a workout routine. And I feel a lot better because of it. So, I thought I'd share some benefits of joining a gym, particularly for those who work from home. Meet new people Working from home can be quite isolating for some people. If your day-to-day job doesn't require you to be on lots of calls and attend lots of virtual meetings, then you won't necessarily speak to many people. But by joining a gym, you'll undoubtedly get to see other people and talk to other people. Whether it's the receptionist, someone using a machine you want to have a go at, or just a friendly hello. Over time, you could become gym buddies with someone you see often at the gym, or if you sign up with a friend (like I did), you'll get to see them more frequently too. Options, options, options Depending on the gym, you'll be offered lots of variety with regard to how to workout. Most gyms tend to have similar equipment in that they offer cardio and strength machines. There'll often be treadmills, exercise bikes, rowing machines, StairMasters, cross-trainers, etc., and then machines and hand-held weights that target different muscle groups. Plus, depending on what gym you sign up for, there could be classes, ranging from Spin to Body Combat, a swimming pool and activities., I would say, though, that make sure you join a gym that suits your needs. I tried a couple of different gyms on a pay-as-you-go basis before deciding to join the leisure centre. Workout without the weather One thing I've always found a challenge when working out from home is the weather. Working from home in general is great because if it's raining or really cold, I don't have to necessarily go out and I can put the heating on. If it's hot, I can make a cold drink and turn on the fan. But working out after a day of remote working, particularly in the summer, is difficult. The sun can be quite bright, a fan might not be good enough — and people might not have a fan in their workout space — and working out outside in the heat isn't always a great idea either. When it's cold, going outside isn't that appealing and when it gets dark early, it can be de-motivating. But at the gym, it's a whole other story. Yes, you may have to drive, or walk, in the heat or the cold and rain, but once you get to the gym, they're generally climate-controlled. A lot of them have air-conditioning, which means that you can do a workout, get hot and sweaty, and not feel like you're boiling. Plus, if there's a pool, you can go for a swim in the heat to cool off. Increase motivation As I mentioned above, if it's dark outside, it can be a bit de-motivating to work out from home. The same could be said if you have extra work to do, or if you're reading a particularly good book or watching a particularly good show. But by joining a gym, you can make sure you get in your exercise each week because 1) you'll know you're paying for a membership so hopefully want to get the most out of it, 2) if you find a type of workout, class or piece of equipment you really enjoy, you'll be more motivated to do it and 3) being at the gym surrounded by others working out, will motivate and drive you more. However, even though I'm promoting the gym in this blog post, I understand that it's not the right option for everyone. Gyms can be expensive. There might not be a gym near you with what you're looking for. Getting in some home workouts each week is just as good as going to the gym. Personally, I've found it easier to get my workouts in whilst working from home five days a week by joining a gym. So, if you want to work out more and find it a challenge doing it from home, especially when you work from home, then think about joining a gym. The four benefits above are just some I've noticed — I'm sure there are plenty more! If you do complete home workouts, I'd love to know what workouts you do. Feel free to leave a comment below. Until next time...

If you love reading and watching some good movies and television, here are some books that you need to read before the screen adaptations are released. Books and movies are two of the most popular methods of entertainment, and when they come together, they can be so good. Throughout the history of entertainment, there are a lot of books that have been adapted for television or the big screen. Sometimes, the adaptations are spot on, or even better than the books, but other times, the books still win. However, some new books are set to be turned into films or television shows, with some expected to be released this year. As someone who loves both books and movies and is intrigued with the process of turning a novel into a script, I thought I'd share some books you should definitely read before watching their adaptations when released. Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman Richard Osman's debut novel, Thursday Murder Club , is being adapted for the big screen by Netflix and Amblin (founded by Steven Spielberg). The script has been written by Chris Columbus, who has also directed the filming of the movie. The novel follows a group of friends in a retirement home, who come together to become sleuths when solving murders for fun suddenly turns real. Osman's debut series was a hit and the filming for the Thursday Murder Club movie has actually already wrapped. The cast includes some big industry names, with the four protagonists being portrayed by Celia Imrie, Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan and Ben Kingsley. It is expected to be released later this year. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden In the last few years, Freida McFadden's name has popped up again and again in the world of thrillers. Her novels are fast-paced and compelling, and it's no wonder that her book, The Housemaid , was picked up by Lionsgate in 2023 to become a movie. The Housemaid movie adaptation will be directed by Paul Feig and the release date for the dark thriller is set to be Christmas Day, 2025. The cast has also been announced with the four key characters, Millie, Nina, Andrew and Enzo, being confirmed to be played by Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, and Michele Morrone, respectively. As someone who has read this book, I can't wait to see how this thriller is portrayed on screen and with such a good cast too. I Will Find You by Harlan Coben I read I Will Find You by Harlan Coben back in January and I loved it; it was my first book by Coben and I'm so glad I read it, especially since I found out this is one of the books Netflix are planning to adapt. Lots of Coben's works have been adapted already, for example Missing You and Fool Me Once . And I Will Find You is on that list too. There's not a lot of information about the adaptation of this book, but it has been confirmed. If you want to know more about what I Will Find You is about, click here to read my review of the novel. None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell Lisa Jewell is a prominent name in the world of thriller novels, but I haven't got around to reading her work yet. However, everyone I know who has read her books loves them. And None of This Is True is being adapted into a feature-length film by Netflix with Eleanor Burgess writing the script. Jewell, herself, will be an executive producer on the film. The book follows two women, who are birthday twins, as their relationship takes a sinister turn. No confirmation of the cast or release date has been announced, but Jewell has shared her dream actress to play one of the main characters as Ruth Wilson. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is one of my favourite novels of all time and I am so excited that it is becoming a Netflix movie. The adaptation of this book follows Amazon Prime Video's adaptation of Daisy Jones and The Six . This novel follows a 1950s movie star, Evelyn Hugo, as she gives a tell-all interview at the age of 79 to a junior journalist, Monique Grant. But as Monique writes Evelyn's biography, there are secrets revealed. The director for the movie has changed from Leslye Headland to Maggie Betts. No cast has been announced for the movie, but there are rumours as to who could play the main character of Evelyn Hugo and who could play Celia St. James, with Selena Gomez and Jessica Chastain's names cropping up. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros I recently bought Fourth Wing because I had seen lots of people raving about Rebecca Yarros' writing and I felt a bit left out. However, I still haven't got around to reading it. But I will definitely read it, and so should you before the TV series adaptation comes out on Prime Video. The series is still in the early stages of production, with no cast or release date announced. But we do know that it is being produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Michael B. Jordan's company, Outlier Society. The showrunner is set to be Moira Walley-Beckett, who worked on Breaking Bad and Anne with an E. So, if you love a fantasy story with great characters, dragons, war and action, then give the Empyrean Series by Rebecca Yarros. People We Meet On Vacation by Emily Henry People We Meet On Vacation is a novel by Emily Henry that follows Poppy and Alex, two unlikely friends, who live in different cities but go on holiday together every summer. Except, their friendship is put to the test and they start to question their relationship. The novel has been picked up by Sony Pictures and Netflix and is the first of Henry's books to be adapted, but it will certainly not be the last. The cast of this movie has been released with Tom Blyth (recently in The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes ) and Emily Bader (recently in My Lady Jane ) playing the protagonists. Brett Haley is directing with Yulin Kuang (screenwriter and romance author) set to adapt the book into a screenplay. There is no confirmed release date yet, but it is set to premiere later this year. Happy Place by Emily Henry As I said above, Henry has more than one book being adapted; in fact, all her novels are set to be turned into either movies or TV shows. And Happy Place has been confirmed as a TV show on Netflix. This novel is one of my favourite novels and I can't wait to see the adaptation. According to reports, Jennifer Lopez's production company, Nuyorican Productions, is set to adapt the novel. No one has been cast yet, but Henry has shared her openness for fans to share their ideal cast for the protagonists, Harriet and Wyn. There was speculation that the adaptation of Happy Place would be YA, but Henry confirmed that all the actors will be in their late 20s to early 30s, representing the characters. Off-Campus Series by Elle Kennedy This recommendation is more for the young/new adults interested in romance. The Off-Campus series by Elle Kennedy is one of my favourite sports romance book series because it spans five books, with four in a spin-off series, and the characters, the plots, the relationships are all great. The series will be a television show on Amazon Prime Video, with the showrunner of The Flight Attendant, Louisa Levy, running the adaptation. From what we know, the first season will be based on book one, The Deal . This indicates that there could be four seasons of the TV show, one following each book. The fifth book is a conclusion novel that wraps up loose ends and ties everything together. There is no release date confirmed as of yet, but Kennedy has shared open casting calls for the female main character of The Deal on her social media. Twisted Love by Ana Huang Again, this is a romance series, so perhaps not for everyone, but having read this series myself, I know that it is so good and I only hope the adaptation will do it justice. I shared a guide to the entire Twisted series earlier this year when it was announced that the series would be adapted. Netflix has picked up the adaptation of Twisted Love , book one, in a seven-figure deal. There isn't a cast confirmed but there has been lots of speculation and fan casts (mine included) on social media. I don't believe there is news about the director, producer, scriptwriter, etc., at this time, but because it's a four-book series, it might be worth reading all the books ahead of the adaptation. If you like watching book adaptations, then I hope these recommendations give you some inspiration for your TBR and movie/TV watchlist. Until next time...

If you work from home, whether it's full-time remote working or hybrid, there are essential items you'll need in your home office when working from home to ensure an organised work environment. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly popular for companies to offer hybrid working, with one or two days a week being remote working from home. But sometimes it can be difficult to work from home. I work from home with a desk in my bedroom and I also study from my home. My degree is completely online, so I'm sure you can imagine that finding motivation at times to study and work within the same four walls you woke up in is sometimes challenging. However, I actually think my motivation has increased over the years and this is down to creating an organised and effective work environment. There are certain things I have in my workspace that ultimately make my days easier and keep me on track. Because working remotely is a lot more common now than it was say 10 years ago and because I know a lot of freelancers, I thought I'd share some essential items you need when working from home. Essential items for your home office A Diary I can honestly say that my life would be a lot less organised if I didn't have a diary to keep track of things. Having a diary in your office, whether it's one that can sit on your desk or a calendar to hang on the wall, can really help you work more efficiently. You'll be able to know what the date and day is quickly and whether or not you've got meetings and deadlines, and this will also allow you to schedule things with a quick glance. The diary I use also has pages for monthly goals, important dates, an address book and a spare notes page at the back. All of which can only be useful. Different Coloured Pens This item relates to the diary above, but also work in general. For me, I find it incredibly helpful to use coloured pens to fill out my diary. I colour-code different events, such as uni deadlines/meetings, personal events, WriteWatchWork information, and birthdays/anniversaries. Using a different coloured pen for each type of event makes it easier when scanning what's coming up each month and differentiating between the professional and the personal. However, that's not the only use of coloured pens. If you find that you write a lot by hand for work, then having the choice of different pens could be handy. For example, I tend to write in black ink, but when annotating pieces of writing, I use red. Post-It Notes If you know me, you'll know that I love a to-do list. And to make my to-do lists, I use Post-it notes. I can't tell you how many Post-it notes I have on my desk and in my stationary drawer. They are so useful when you need to quickly jot something down, make a reminder of something to stick on the wall, or on a mirror, and for a to-do list. Every day, I use a different Post-it note because I update the to-do list every 24 hours. So, if you need small bits of paper to make quick notes and to write lists on, get yourself some post-it notes. And you can jazz it up by having different coloured post-its, not just the standard yellow. Plain Paper The other day, I was completing some uni work and I needed a plain bit of paper. I had lots of notepads and lined bits of paper to hand, but I needed a plain bit so I could sketch. I had to ask my sister if she had any, and it got me thinking that it would be handy to have some plain paper in my office because you never know when you may need it. A Coaster Throughout the day, I use a water bottle that has the time and volume of liquid down the sides. But I also often have either a latté or iced coffee. And because I have lots of paper on my desk, and a new mouse mat, and some cables, I don't want my drinks to leave condensation or stain my desk. So, I have a couple of coasters, one on either side of my desk, so I can put my drinks on there. That way, I know my drinks aren't taking up any more space than they need to and that my desk will remain clean and dry. A Clock The next handy thing to have in your office is a clock. If you have a computer/laptop, there will be a clock on there, but sometimes it's not always necessary to use your computer throughout the whole day. Your phone also has the time, but as we all know, mobile phones can be distracting and aren't always the best thing to use during work. Having a clock, analogue or digital, or even wearing a watch, can help you stay organised and on schedule during the day. This is especially handy when you have meetings and you want to be ready a few minutes early. So, if you want to be punctual and just able to keep track of the time, make sure you have a clock in your home office. Storage When working from home, it can be difficult to keep track of lots of things you need, whether that's chargers for your computer, a spare notepad, some paperwork from work, etc. One thing that can help with that is having designated storage. It can be anything from a filing cabinet, a desk tray to a folder; anything that helps you keep things together and organised so that if you need to find something quickly, you won't spend ages rummaging around for it. For me, I have a storage box filled to the brim with stationery. I also have a letter holder on my desk for a small notebook, some USB drives, business cards and Post-Its. Space The above links to this next point, which isn't technically an item. Instead, it's the removal of items. There's nothing worse when working from home than having not a lot of space to actually work. It can be difficult because it is your house and if you aren't able to have a designated room for remote working, it can be even harder. But by ensuring you have a clear, tidy work area, you can work more productively. There's a saying that a clean space promotes a clean mind, and it is true. So, if any unnecessary objects are lying around in your work area, perhaps it's time to remove them. All of these items are ones I deem essential for working from home. Of course, you may think differently and have even more items on your lists, so these are just suggestions. But if you do work from home and you haven't got these items, perhaps give them a try. Until next time...

The gripping second instalment of the HappyHead duology, Dead Happy by Josh Silver, is a must-read for fans of thrillers and dystopias, looking for a fresh new voice. As someone studying Creative Writing, particularly writing for teenagers and young adults, I've read a lot of YA literature. I've covered a lot of genres within YA literature from contemporary romance to fantasy. But one of the best young adult book series that I have read is the HappyHead duology by British author, Josh Silver. I first read HappyHead last year, and was so impressed by Silver's debut that I rated it five stars and wrote a blog review about it. I was eager to read Dead Happy but didn't have time to fit it in by the end of 2024, so now I'm back to studying YA literature, I thought it was the perfect time. And Dead Happy was even better than the first book, so let's get into my thoughts on the second HappyHead book. Review of Dead Happy by Josh Silver Synopsis of Dead Happy from GoodReads : "Friends. Welcome to Elmhallow. Seb, along with a select group of participants, finds himself washed up on an isolated island called Elmhallow, under the guardianship of a mysterious couple. As the experiment steps up another level, Seb is forced to team up with Eleanor once more. But where is Finn? And what does HappyHead have in store for them next?" Genre: Young Adult Dystopian Thriller Star Rating: 5 Stars Dead Happy picks up straight after HappyHead, keeping the momentum going from the first book, which I was really pleased about because of the cliffhanger at the end of HappyHead ...wow! When reading Dead Happy what really stood out to me was the protagonist, Seb. I knew I liked his character and his voice from book one, but it grew so much stronger in book two. The novel is written in first-person so there is a level of intimacy between the reader and Seb, but his voice was so authentic and realistic. As a character, Seb is acerbic, sarcastic, funny and honest. The commentary he gives and the insight into his thoughts that we get really helped make the book. The whole cast of characters is really distinct. Not only Seb, but Finn, Eleanor, Ares, Artemis, and even Professor Manning, who in Dead Happy doesn't come into it until a third of the way through the book I'd say. But their individuality and uniqueness make them identifiable and they are all believable as real teenagers. Whilst Dead Happy is a continuation of HappyHead , I would say it has a darker, more mature feel to it because it does explore more ominous themes and the challenges that the 'Ten' have to complete are more demanding and inhumane, in some ways. That being said, this duology is a must-read for any teen, or adult, who is a fan of dystopian books and thrillers. And this is a thriller. It is fast-paced and compelling, the tension builds and builds as the novel progresses and despite there being some calmer scenes throughout the narrative arc, the majority of this book evokes feelings of suspense and anxiety, but also excitement and fascination. The entire premise of the book, and HappyHead , is very intriguing from a psychology perspective and it is fascinating how easy it can be to believe something someone tells you and to manipulate what one thinks. I can say, with confidence, that Dead Happy will be one of my top reads this year because I was obsessed with it. I didn't know what was going to happen — that plot twist at the end...OMG! — and Silver builds the anticipation until it boils over and even then, you're still hooked. The ending of Dead Happy does round up Seb's story and it is a good conclusion to the duology. For me, HappyHead and Dead Happy by Josh Silver echo the classic dystopian novels, such as The Hunger Games , The Maze Runner , and Lord of the Flies . If I worked in education, I would definitely say this book should be on the GCSE/A Level curriculum. What's next? The HappyHead duology was Silver's first published piece of fiction, but he has a new book coming out later this year called TraumaLand , which you can view on Amazon here . Otherwise, if you've been persuaded to read HappyHead and Dead Happy by my review, you can get it here on Amazon . If you do decide to give the duology a go, let me know in the comments what you think. Until next time...