By Khloe Crimando, MS, LAC
The colder, quieter months invite reflection, making them the perfect time to turn inward and spend time with stories that help us better understand ourselves and each other. In this space, I’m sharing some of my favorite books that explore mental health, self-exploration, the complexity of being human, and how we make sense of the world around us, especially when it feels heavy, confusing, or uncertain.
Reading isn’t just an escape, it’s a powerful tool for our mental health. Books can offer language for feelings we haven’t quite been able to name, remind us that we’re not alone in our experiences, and expand our perspectives. Reading can also help regulate our nervous systems, foster empathy, and create moments of grounding and connection. Think of this list as an invitation to slow down, get curious, and let these pages keep you company throughout the rest of this long winter.
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
by Susan Cain
I was first introduced to Susan Cain’s work through her TED Talk some time ago. As a fellow introvert, I was immediately drawn to her perspective of viewing introversion as a strength. In her book Quiet, she continued to explore the widespread cultural assumption that being outgoing and gregarious is the ideal personality trait, especially in the United States. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, history, and personal stories, she shows that introversion isn’t shyness or a flaw but a valid and powerful way of engaging with the world. Cain offers practical advice for introverts to navigate social expectations without denying their nature, and encourages extroverts to appreciate the value of quiet strength and listening.
If you identify as an introvert, this book will help you identify and understand your own personal strengths. If you have an introvert in your
life, you will have the opportunity to learn more about their internal experience and the pressures they face in an extroverted society. I personally love how this book explores the different ways introverts vs. extroverts recharge their social and personal batteries and normalizes “restorative niches,” some of the many ways different individuals are able to feel connected to themselves and the world around them.
Welcoming the Unwelcome: Wholehearted Living in a Brokenhearted World
by Pema Chodron
Pema Chödrön is an American Buddhist teacher who is widely known for teaching compassion and peace in times of turbulence and uncertainty. Drawing from Buddhist teachings and real-world examples, Chödrön encourages readers to stay present with discomfort, fear, and pain, especially in a polarized and uncertain world. Ultimately, the book offers a gentle yet challenging invitation to live with more openness, resilience, and empathy by learning to welcome the parts of life we instinctively push away.
This book is one of her most recent publications, and I found it deeply grounding and supportive during times of uncertainty. What stood out to me most was her compassionate, conversational tone that felt less like receiving advice and more like being supported by a trusted friend. Overall, this book offers a welcome reprieve from chaos, fear, uncertainty, or whatever it is we may be navigating.
The Myth of Normal
By Gabor Maté
A few months ago I attended Gabor Matés lecture based on the Myth of Normal where he shared his experiences researching Trauma
along with his own personal experiences navigating his own Trauma. I picked up this book at the event which led me to learn more about the mind-body connection along with suggestions to mend disconnections caused by traumatic events.
The Myth of Normal looks at what we usually think of as “normal” in life and mental health and why that idea can actually be misleading. The book points out that a lot of what makes people anxious, depressed, or stressed isn’t because they’re flawed, it’s because society, culture, and life itself can be incredibly harsh and unfair. What’s considered “normal” often ignores trauma, inequality, and the real pressures people face.
This is a helpful read because it can help provide some framework for why we engage in certain coping mechanisms without shame or judgment. Maté’s approach is that our anxiety, depression, and other mental concerns are natural responses to many of the difficult experiences one may have faced. Although it is a long and very detailed read, it provides a helpful understanding of the impact of Trauma. Please read with care, as this book does discuss traumatic events and may be intense for many readers.
How to Hold a Cockroach: A Book for Those Who are Free and Don’t Know It
by Matthew Maxwell
How to Hold a Cockroach is a quick, light read that uses storytelling to invite exploration of self-acceptance, human suffering, and self-criticism. Through its simple yet meaningful format, the book encourages readers to reflect on their self-imposed limitations and consider what personal freedom might look like when those constraints are loosened.
I personally loved this book because it prompted me to question how my beliefs about myself shape my worldview. The experience of reading it is also deeply grounding, due to the beautiful illustrations and peaceful quotes woven throughout to engage our senses. Of all the book recommendations I’ve shared, this one feels the most approachable, and easily the most fun to read!
It is also great as an audio book!
Kind Karl: A Little Crocodile with Big Feelings
by Sharon Salzberg and Jason Gruhl
Kind Karl brings mindfulness to the whole family! I highly recommend this book as it is a delightful children’s adaptation of Sharon Salzberg’s
Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness. Lovingkindness, also called Metta, can help cultivate happiness, compassion, and meaningful connections in everyday life. Overall, this book guides young readers through a playful story that creatively explores important lessons about kindness, generosity, and mindfulness.
The book uses relatable everyday examples, approachable language, and adorable illustrations to help children reflect on their own feelings and those of others. I especially love that it includes simple, engaging activities at the end so kids and parents can start practicing lovingkindness together in daily life. This book is a wonderful way to introduce children to mindfulness and empathy in a fun and memorable way.
Thanks for reading my recommendations! No matter what kind of books you enjoy, fully engaging with a good story is a wonderful way to unwind. You can even bring what you discover in your reading to your counselor for further self-exploration.
Happy reading!
Khloe takes a person-centered approach to therapy, drawing on evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness techniques. She has supported clients navigating challenges including anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Grounded in a whole-health perspective, Khloe recognizes the connection between mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. With a background in the arts alongside her clinical training, she brings creativity and empathy to her work, fostering a safe and inclusive environment where healing and growth can emerge through self-awareness, resilience, and the exploration of each client’s unique story and strengths.
Email us at info@exceptionalwellnesscounseling.com
Call us (908) 415-2042
