My Favorite Books and Shows of 2020

Rather than a December Favorites post, I wanted to share my favorite books and shows from 2020. I always love great recommendations, so I hope you’ll enjoy these 5-star suggestions from me!

I finished 78 books this year, which is a new record for me! I usually have an audiobook and a digital book going at the same time, and track all of my books in Goodreads.

Favorite Books

*Fiction*

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab – this was a different read for me. It had some mystical elements in it (which I’m not generally drawn to), but the book held my attention the entire time and I could not wait to see how it ended. To get out of an unwanted marriage, young Addie LaRue makes a deal with a dark god and consequently lives forever, but is completely forgotten by everyone she ever meets–until one day she meets a boy who can remember her. It was a creative story that I really enjoyed.

Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano – I found this story heartbreaking and hopeful at the same time. Edward is a 12-year-old boy who is the lone survivor of a plane crash that kills his family and all of the other 183 passengers on board. The touching story is about him learning to find his place in the world again.

One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London – this story captured my attention and was very entertaining! It is the story of a plus-sized fashion blogger who finds herself agreeing to be the star of a Bachelorette-type TV show.

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary – this was a cute rom-com about two roommates who share a one-bedroom apartment, but have never met. Tiffy works days and Leon works nights, so they have an unusual home-sharing arrangement and communicate through notes left for the other. I found it funny and entertaining.

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling – I listened to this middle grade book with my daughter and thought it was fantastic! Aven is a spunky and endearing girl who was born without arms. When her family relocates to a different city, she has to navigate a new school and find new friends. This is a terrific read for middle grade (maybe 4th-7th graders) and teaches great values around disabilities.

*Nonfiction*

Enter Wild: Exchange a Mild and Mundane Faith for Life With an Uncontainable God by Carlos Whittaker – through his own struggle with anxiety, Carlos shares about how deepening our faith and trusting God leads to an abundant life.

On the Bright Side: Stories about Friendship, Love, and Being True to Yourself by Melanie Shankle – this was a fun read. Melanie’s writing can bring tears on one page and laughter on the next. She shares personal stories about looking on the bright side in life. This was a book I needed this year!

The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn’t, and Get Stuff Done by Kendra Adachi – Kendra shares practical principles to be a “genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t.” These ideas can be applied to many different areas of life to help things run a little smoother.

Live Love Now: Relieve the Pressure and Find Real Connection With Our Kids by Rachel Macy Stafford – Rachel offers wonderful strategies for connecting with young people in your life. I think I need to re-read this every year. It was awesome.

Rhythms of Renewal: Trading Stress and Anxiety for a Life of Peace and Purpose by Rebekah Lyons – I don’t have an issue with anxiety, but found that Rebekah shared great advice for creating healthy rhythms in life. If you are struggling, this book may help you find some balance.

Favorite Shows/Movies

• Hamilton (Disney+) – this Broadway musical-turned movie is a must watch for everyone. It is creative genius at its best. Centered on the life and impact of Alexander Hamilton, this is the most impressive show I have ever seen.
• Ted Lasso (Apple TV+) – also a must watch! Ted Lasso is a football coach who is recruited to manage a soccer team in England. The show is funny, endearing and just. so. good. I highly recommend.
• The Chosen (free on The Chosen app or buy the DVD) – another must watch for the whole family! This is a multi-season series about the life of Jesus and it blew me away. This portrayal makes the stories in the gospels come alive in a new and impactful way. I loved it and can’t wait for season 2!
• Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (Season 1 on Hulu) – I found this to be a very entertaining TV series. It has lots of music and dancing in it, but I found it to be a lot of fun to watch. I’m not typically a fan of musicals, so I am surprised that two of my favorites were musicals! Season 2 is starting Jan. 5 on NBC.
• Big Little Lies (HBO Max) – this series is a little darker and tells the story of the after-effects on the seemingly perfect lives of a group of women after a murder occurs in their town. It is based on the book by Liane Moriarty. It is not light, but is interesting.
• The Queen’s Gambit (Netflix) – this series is about a young orphan who grows up to be a highly skilled chess player. It has its darker moments as well, but was overall interesting to watch.

I’d love to hear what some of your favorite books or shows were this year! Leave a comment and let me know!

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