If you’ve ever looked back at your younger self and thought, “Girl… you deserved better books,” this episode is for you. This week on Mad About Books, we’re unpacking the five titles I wish someone had shoved into my tote bag at nineteen—books that aren’t self-help, but somehow still healed, challenged, and shaped me in all the right ways. Think of this as the older-sister pep talk I desperately needed prior to being 19: honest, cozy, a little chaotic, and full of stories about the pages that taught me how to think, feel, dream, and actually live. We’re talking fiction that rewired my brain, classics that humbled me, and those unexpected reads that still echo in my faith, my creativity, and my sense of self today. Whether you’re nineteen right now (bless you) or simply nostalgic for your bookish origin story, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and recs that will make you fall in love with reading all over again. Get comfy, grab a latte, and let’s talk about the books that could’ve changed everything a little sooner. Let's begin.    CONNECT WITH ME AND FIND YOUR NEXT FAVORITE BOOK!  My Blog with thoughtful, concise book reviews: https://madaboutbooks.blog/  My Social Media so you can follow your new book bestie: https://www.instagram.com/madaboutbooks.blog/  Sign up for my email list so you never miss my content: https://madaboutbooks.blog/book-me/