The Best Grown-Up Reads of
January 2021

by the Brightly Editors

Background credit: Elena Schweitzer/Shutterstock

This year got off to a rough start, but that doesn’t mean it’s doomed to follow in 2020’s footsteps. Redirect this year and make it your best one yet with these fantastic grown-up reads. Get lost in a suspenseful thriller, harness your inner strength, and commit to learning a new skill. These books will help you relax, change course, and make 2021 a year to remember.

  • Beginners

    by Tom Vanderbilt

    The start of a new year is the perfect time to tackle a new skill. No matter your age, learning something new can spark joy and help create human connections. Inspired by his daughter’s curiosity, Tom Vanderbilt embarks on a year of learning. Along the way, he discovers the joy of taking the first steps and the thrill that comes from learning something new.
    (On Sale: 1/5/2021)

  • ADHD 2.0

    by Edward M. Hallowell, M.D. and John J. Ratey, M.D.

    Twenty years ago, co-authors Dr. Edward M. Hallowell and Dr. John J. Ratey introduced the public to ADD and ADHD. Now, these authors are sharing the latest research and science about the diagnosis. From discovering the best outlet for an individual to combating negativity, this book offers insight and hope. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with ADHD, the information in this book will prove invaluable. Read an excerpt here.
    (On Sale: 1/12/2021)

  • The Children’s Blizzard

    by Melanie Benjamin

    Set in the Dakota Territory in 1888, this novel is inspired by the terrible blizzard that ravaged the prairie. When the blizzard unexpectedly hits, two young schoolteachers must choose to either keep their students at school or send them home through the storm. Based on actual events, this historical novel will transport you to another time and place when children grew up too fast, and one mistake could be deadly.
    (On Sale: 1/12/2021)

  • The Perfect Guests

    by Emma Rous

    When you need a total escape from reality, a suspenseful thriller will do the trick. In 1988, the Averell family welcomed 14-year-old Beth into their home, Raven Hall. Thirty years later, actress Sadie Langton also stays at the mysterious manor. Both women discover that Ravel Hall is not what it seems. Initially charmed by its beauty, they soon find themselves caught in a deadly game with no escape. With its gothic setting and delicious plot twists, this novel begs to be read nonstop from cover to cover.
    (On Sale: 1/12/2021)

  • Before She Disappeared

    by Lisa Gardner

    Frankie Elkin is a recovering alcoholic who dedicates her time to solving cold cases, especially those involving people of color. A new investigation brings her to Boston, searching for a Haitian teenager who disappeared months ago. But as Frankie starts asking questions, someone else will stop at nothing to keep the answers hidden.
    (On Sale: 1/19/2021)

  • Chatter

    by Ethan Kross

    Available from:

    When you think of talking to yourself, you might envision a tormented Gollum arguing with his reflection. But if you’ve resolved to be kinder to yourself this year, this book is a must-read. Acclaimed psychologist Ethan Kross uses research and case studies to investigate your inner conversations. Learn how to harness the voice in your head to empower, inspire, and shape your life for the better.
    (On Sale: 1/26/2021)

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