Colorful School Supplies That Will Actually Make You Want To Study

Chloe Williams​
Aug 04, 2022

The first day of school is a lot easier when you have school supplies that you love and a delicious lunch(preferably in a super-cute lunchbox). Similar to the way that cute workout gear can make you actually want to work out, colorful and unique school supplies just might make you feel more capable and ready to take on the day every time you leave your dorm room. From holographic scissors to multicolored highlighters, these picks will help you stay on top of your game all school year long.

Super Fluffy Shiba Portable LED Light ($17)

This mini light is so cute you might do a late-night study sesh just so you can use it. Since it runs on a 15-minute timer, it's the perfect way to keep track of study sprints.

Amazon Basics Ruled Neon Flash Cards ($7)

Flash cards are one of the best ways to keep track of all your anatomy terms, history dates, and math equations. Grab a pack that's multicolored to make studying more engaging and to color-code by subject.

Freshmage Stainless Steel Bento Box ($21)

When you don't want all your foods touching, usually you find a way to stuff multiple Tupperware containers into your lunchbox. But with this bento box's different layers and compartments, you can pack everything up in the same concentrated container that fits right into your tote without worrying about the food mixing together.

Outdoor Products Mini Mesh Backpack ($15, was $30)

Picking a neon mesh backpack means that not only will you have a place to house your laptop, all your textbooks, and your pencil case, but also you'll have a trendy fashion statement. And since it's mesh, it's easy to clean, which is always a plus for us.

Acrylic Rainbow Multipurpose Scissors ($13)

A good pair of scissors is essential for both school projects and art projects. How else are you supposed to make sure the images for your bullet journal look pristine? We love the way that this pair's rainbow stainless steel contrasts the clear acrylic handles.

Easthill Grid Mesh Pencil Case ($8)

Organize your desk with a mesh pencil case that keeps your pencils together *and* lets you see what's inside. The front pocket will hold notes, coffee gift cards, and your favorite pens, and we love the way the lavender piping stands out against the rest of the bag.

Retro Color Index Sticky Notes ($4)

Sticky notes that can go right into your books will become your best friend. You can mark lines that will be important come midterm season and write little notes about the passage.

Blue Sk Brit + Co Weekly/Monthly Academic Planner ($27)

When it's time to grab an academic planner for the year, we recommend one that has monthly tabs to let you find your week easily, is untimed so you can customize your schedule, and has storage pockets — like this one!

Beast Hydration System ($38)

The best thing about this hydration system is that there are multiple options for your drink, all within the same bottle. Enjoy your go-to morning smoothie, or stay hydrated with a different flavored water every day, thanks to the infusion chamber.

College Ruled 1 Subject Spiral Notebook Brushy Stripes ($3)

You're going to need a notebook for class, so why not pick one that has a bunch of different colors? If you like to take notes on anything and everything, the pages have lines on the front and back, so you can write on both sides.

Three-Dimensional Lemon AirPods Case Cover ($13)

If you want something more than your standard square AirPods case, look no further than this citrusy design. It's made out of 100% food-grade silicone and will have you daydreaming about lemonade all day long. Our favorite study hack? Pick your favorite album (we love Marvel movie soundtracks) and study until the last song without stopping.

Russell+Hazel Mini Bookcloth 3 Ring Binder ($19)

Not only does this binder have enough room to hold your English papers and your biology notes, but it also features a dry-erase interior that will let you make a new to-do list every day without having to waste a ton of paper.

Fluffy Pen ($13)

Channel your inner Cher Horowitz with a fluffy pen that makes taking notes way more fun.

Rifle Paper Co. Assorted File Folders ($16)

It's always a good idea to have file folders on hand to organize all your paperwork. Get a variety so you can divide up your stuff based on syllabi, club forms, and the documents you'll need forever (think passport and birth certificate).

Paris France Lavender Sticker Sheet ($4)

Planners feel more personalized when you have pretty stickers to decorate the pages, and this set will have your head in the Parisian clouds, even when you're walking across campus. You can even treat yourself based on the image! Grab some macarons after a long study session or have a French-inspired brunch after your big test is over.

Pastel Highlighter Pen ($9 for 6)

Color-code green for names, blue for vocabulary terms, and orange for dates, or just use your favorite color to highlight quotes that speak to you. Either way, you'll make the most out of these highlighters.

OOLY Side Notes Sticky Tab Note Pad ($7)

Organization just got prettier with this pastel pack, and the sticky note tabs and pads will make taking notes way more fun.

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30 Easy Snacks To Make For Kids, With 5 Ingredients Or Less

Kids love snacks – at school, on the road, and at home all day long. We've got you covered with these easy snacksfor kids that only require a few ingredients!

From a batch of granola barsthat last all week, to a deliciously warm Nutella quesadilla, or even frozen fruittreats, these easy snacks to make for all of life's moments will battle those school-time hunger pangs so you can get the evening started off right. Now, all that's left to do is decide what's for dinner!

Vegan Fluffernutter Sammies

Marshmallow-loving kiddos will delight in this healthier version of the traditional peanut butter, chocolate and marshmallow sandwich – no need to worry, though: this sammie tastes the exact same as the OG. (via Brit + Co)

Watermelon Jerky

If you’ve never had watermelon jerky before, think of it more like dried mango in terms of flavor and texture. To make these easy snacks yourself, thinly slice some watermelon, spritz it with a little lemon or lime juice to prevent oxidation, and dehydrate it slowly in the oven until it turns into fruit leather. Serve with homemade whipped cream for a kid-friendly crowd-pleaser! (via Brit + Co)

Almond Butter Fruit Stacks

Upgrade your kid's afternoon snack with almond butter, strawberries + bananas, and chocolate chips! This way, they get. little bit of everything in a single bite. (via Brit + Co)

Apricot Bites

Five ingredients and 15 minutes is all you need to make enough of these bite-sized easy snacks to last a whole week! They taste just like candy, we swear. (via Brit + Co)

Turkey Tortilla Roll-Ups

Mini turkey rolls are way more delicious and kid-friendly than your average turkey sando. We love easy snacks that are also finger foods! (via Brit + Co)

Guacamole For One

You don’t even have to do the dishes with this clever guac hack! The kids will love eating it right out of the avocado and you’ll love the literal zero amount of work this easy snack takes. (via Brit + Co)

Freezer-Pack Smoothies

These fun smoothie packs are perfect for a juicy, easy snack or simple on-the-go breakfast. They’re healthy, delicious, and super easy to whip up! Pre-make a few to enjoy for the week! This recipe proves easy snacks don't have to be unhealthy. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Rainbow Fruit Kabobs

Pretty food is so much more fun to eat, don’t you think?! Make these easy snacks with whatever fruit your kids are loving at the moment, and add some special treats like marshmallows or cheese for extra flavor. (via Center Cut Cook)

Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Bites

When they’re craving something sweet (but you don’t want to give them more popsicles), these frozen bites are the answer to easy snacks. Just chop up a banana into small slices, dip ’em in chocolate, then coat in coconut and peanut butter and toss in the freezer. (via The Kitchn)

Parmesan Ranch Snack Mix

Combine one packet of dry ranch dip seasoning mix with a bowl of popcorn, pretzels, nuts and anything else the kids are currently snacking on. Beware: this easy snack will disappear fast! (via Averie Cooks)

Apple Cinnamon Chips Quick Snacks

Instead of just cutting up an apple, make a whole batch of these crisp apple chips at the beginning of the week for an easy snack that will last all week long. If they’re feeling super hungry, have your little ones dip the apple chips in yogurt for some extra protein. (via Simply Sisson)

Pita Bread Pizza

When the kids are begging for pizza, but you want a healthy and fast option for easy snacks to make, make them these little pita pizzas! They’ll love being able to make them themselves and top with all their favorite fixings. (via Food)

Quinoa Granola Bars

Instead of high fructose corn syrup, these granola bars are sweetened with figs which are rich in fiber to keep you and the kids fuller for longer. They are also high in potassium, which makes them a great workout snack, too. (via Simply Quinoa)

Easy Homemade Protein Bars

Instead of letting the kids fill up on those super sugary store-bought granola bars, make these healthy protein bars that will definitely last them until dinner time. These are very easy snacks to make. (via Chew Out Loud)

Peanut Butter Energy Bites

These little snack bites are almost dessert-like and are somewhere between a granola bar and cookie dough! You and the kids can personalize them with dried fruit, coconut or other treats, though we highlight recommend dark chocolate chips. (via Chef Savvy)

Chocolate Banana Quesadilla

Quesadillas are a classic go-to easy snack, but if you’re looking to mix things up a bit, you should definitely try this sweet, healthy treat. Quick and simple, this fast recipe is loaded with protein and fiber to fill you up and leave your sweet tooth satisfied. (via The Creative Bite)

Zesty Frozen Blueberries

Let the kids help you dip blueberries — or any other of their favorite fruits — in chocolate or yogurt and stick them in the freezer for week-long snacking. (via Pretty Plain Janes)

Almond Joy Snack Mix

An easy snack option that’s ready in mere minutes, this trail mix is healthy and is sure to get a thumbs up from the kiddos. With loads of chocolate, almonds and coconut, it’s the ultimate combination of sweet and salty that’ll satisfy any craving! (via The Seasoned Mom)

Granola Parfait for Easy Snacks

Obviously the homemade granola part of this easy snack is optional, but the pretty layers of yogurt, fresh fruit and granola are a terrific snack option that the kids will love to help put together. (via Yummy Healthy Easy)

Vegan Ice Cream Snickers

Even though summer is a ways away, it doesn’t mean the craving for ice cream is gone! Pick up some vegan ice cream to whip up these easy-to-make bars. (via Minimalist Baker)

Salted Lime Popcorn

Making your own popcorn on the stove is so much fun, and your kids will get a huge kick out of it if they're never done it before. Try fun flavors like salt and lime, or let them try adding their own flavor combinations for an afternoon of entertainment. (via My Sequined Life)

Frozen Banana Granola Pops

Why is food on a stick so much more fun to eat?! Adding granola gives these frozen treats a good crunch and extra heartiness. You can always leave the chocolate and sprinkles off if you want to keep these easy snacks a bit healthier. (via Hello, Wonderful)

Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Truffles

Your kids will think they’ve died and gone to heaven when you pull out a plate of these for them to snack on! But it’s okay, because they’re vegan. So that means they’re healthy, right? Right?! (via Minimalist Baker)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Mixing chocolate and peanut butter together is the most delicious crime, and we think this recipe is so worth the trouble. We're sorry in advance if your kids try to eat the whole batch! (via This Wife Cooks)

Puff Pastry Jam Tarts

You don't have to save this sweet treat for the holidays. Serve your children puff pastry jam tarts as part of breakfast or an easy afternoon snack. They'll appreciate the blend of the flaky crust and yummy taste of the tarts. (via Cozy Cravings)

2-Ingredient Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream

This no-churn vegan ice cream treat is so easy you'll wonder why you never thought about making it before. Plus, your kids will melt over the delicious strawberry flavor while being shocked that it's a healthier option. (via Salt & Lavender)

Japanese Fruit Sandwich

If you have adventurous kids who love for their easy snacks to look like art, try making them a Japanese fruit sandwich. Beware: they may start preferring this more than they ask for grilled cheese sandwiches. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Easy Graham Cracker Toffee

This kid-approved graham cracker toffee treat will make your kids want to get in on the baking process of these easy snacks, thanks to their chocolatey taste and low-maintenance prep! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Vegan Mocha Shake

Milkshakes are hard to, well, shake. So why not choose a vegan option that works in healthy ways for the whole family? This easy snack recipe is a great dessert alternative for your kids if they have a dairy allergy. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Oreo Rice Krispie Treats

Making homemade Rice Krispie Treats continues to be a fun pastime for kids. In just 45 minutes, this no-bake easy snack will be ready for your kids to take a gooey bite out of! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy snacks to make!

This post has been updated from a previous post.

Lead image via Kathryn's Kitchen.
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"A Family Affair" Is The Hilarious Summer Rom-Com You Can't Miss

I love sappy, sweet-as-candy rom-coms. You know, the ones where two leads spend the entire movie pursuing other people only to realize they were in love with each other the whole time. The movie usually takes place in a big city or a small town (and sometimes both), there's a quirky best friend, and there's always a big declaration of love before the credits roll. And while these straightforward movies are always on my watchlist, I also love the wacky movies that involve hilarious misunderstandings, ridiculous fight scenes, and gravity-defying Dirty Dancing movies (yes, I'm talking about Emma Stone & Ryan Gosling'sCrazy Stupid Love here). Humor always makes a movie even more enjoyable to watch, and A Family Affair is as wacky as they come. The movie reunites Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron, who played opposite each other ten years ago, and this time, Joey King's added into the mix. Here's everything you need to know about the new summer movie.

What is the movie A Family Affair about?

Image via Netflix

Like any good rom com, A Family Affair is all about a surprising romance — just not the kind Zara might be hoping for. When her mother (Nicole Kidman) and her famous actor boss (Zac Efron) fall for each other, their newfound relationship complicates everyone's ideas of sex and identity, and Zara's entire life. And, just like you might expect when your boss and mother hook up, chaotic hilarity ensues.

When does A Family Affair come out?

You can watch A Family Affair on Netflix starting June 28.

Who's in the A Family Affair movie cast?

Image via Netflix

Joey King, Zac Efron, and Nicole Kidman lead this new rom-com, and they're joined by a few of our other favorite actors! A Family Affair also stars Liza Koshy and Kathy Bates.

What does A Family Affair mean?

Image via Netflix

A family affair refers to a situation that's connected to someone's family in one way or another. For me, being an adult has been all about establishing work-life balance, and I'm sure the same is true for Zara. I can't wait to see how this movie's unexpected romance turns everything upside down.

What else did Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron star in?

Image via Netflix

Before they were cast in A Family Affair, Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman played lovers in The Paperboy in 2012. Familiarity and comfort are two super important things in any romantic role, and I can already tell from these first look images that Zac and Nicole not only have awesome chemistry, but they're comfortable enough around each other to just have fun. And that's all we can ask for from a good movie!

What would YOU do if your boss and one of your parents hooked up? Let us know in the comments and on Facebook!

Lead image via Netflix

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19 Homemade Cereal Bar Recipes Kids + Adults Will Love

Just like that, summer is here, and daytime snacking is on. You and the kiddos are going to need a snack (or two) throughout the warm weeks spent poolside! Though you've planned some bento box ideasfor lunchtime, have you even sorted out breakfast? No-bake granola bars are great, but nothing gets kids excited *quite* like their favorite cereal. Grab a cup of coffee and peep these 19 cereal bar recipes that will make you so eligible for mom of the year.

Cereal Bar Recipes for Your Kiddos to Take to School

No-Bake Samoa Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

You may only be able to buy your favorite Girl Scout cookies once a year, but you can make these cereal bars whenever you want. They utilize both Rice Krispies *and* Golden Grahams, so you can use up all that cereal sitting in your pantry. (viaLife Made Sweeter)

Chocolate Chip Fluffernutter Bars

Kids love Honey Nut Cheerios, but that doesn’t mean the adults won’t like these cereal bars, too! They only have a handful of ingredients, so the whole family can get involved in the easiest cooking process. (viaLike Mother Like Daughter)

Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats

Forever-loved Fruity Pebbles get a cereal bar makeover in this easy recipe that can be eaten for breakfast or dessert! (via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog)

Cinnamon + Sugar + White Chocolate Crunch Bars

Whether you like your Cinnamon Toast Crunch soaked in milk or dry as a bone, you’ll be *so* into these cereal bars. In addition to the grains, there are cinnamon chips and white chocolate chips for even more sweetness. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Cookie Cereal Marshmallow Treats

Talk about a blast from the past! Now that we're adults, we have the joy of sharing our favorite childhood cereals (hello, Cookie Crisp!) with our kids. Spend a lazy Saturday morning making these with your mini-me and create memories to last a lifetime. (viaBig Bear's Wife)

How to Make Cereal Bars? Learn everything here!

Cereal Bars with Dried Cherries, Almonds, + Coconut

On the healthier side, these cereal-covered bars emulate granola bars in the best way. The dried fruit and almonds will supply you with energy while the chocolate chips and coconut add some treats in every bite! (via Completely Delicious)

No-Bake Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cheerio Bars

These may look like any other cereal bar, but they have a secret healthy ingredient that your kids otherwise probably wouldn’t touch — flaxseed meal. Between that and almond butter, they’ll stay full and happy for hours. (via Ambitious Kitchen)

Sprinkle Donut Marshmallow Bars

Why should you choose between sprinkled donuts and cereal? These cereal bars combine the best of both worlds into a sweet and cheery snack anyone would love to find in their lunch box. (via Cookies & Cups)

No-Bake White Chocolate Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bars

Since Cinnamon Toast Crunch is the *best* cereal (no arguments here, please), you've got to make these cereal bars. (via Averie Cooks)

Gluten-Free + Vegan Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Thankfully, there are so many more options these days for gluten-free treats that kids can enjoy – without risk. If your little one has a food intolerance, you’ll want to have recipes like this one around at all times. (via Plating Pixels)

Healthy 3-Ingredient Cereal Bars

All you need to make these simple bars are cereal, peanut butter and the sweetener of your choice. Even the most culinarily challenged can whip these up in a snap. (via The Big Man’s World)

Honeycomb Marshmallow Treats

These bars have an unexpected *crunch* from salted peanuts. Sweet marshmallows to hold everything together, and of course, you can’t have Honeycomb cereal treats without a touch of real honey mixed in. (viaLemon Tree Dwelling)

Special K Bars

Each bite of these bars delivers a hefty layering of chocolate atop a hunk of crunchy Special K cereal. They're so good to bring to parties! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Lucky Charms Treats

Nostalgia’s about to hit you really hard, and it’s perfectly acceptable to make something just because it brings you joy. Plus, the fam will be more than happy to share this special tidbit with you. (via A Pumpkin & A Princess)

Customizable Milk + Cereal Bars

You know those cereal bars you can buy that have the solidified milk on them? Choose a more natural approach, and frost your homemade cereal bars with a smear of your favorite yogurt. You’ll still get the same milk and cereal effect, but without all of the unnecessary chemicals. (via Chocolate Covered Katie)

Homemade Cereal Bars Are The Best!

Peanut Butter + Chocolate Cereal Bars

Even if you think you have no time for homemade cereal bars, you can find 10 minutes for these no-bake goodies. You may want to save them for dessert, though, unless you want your kids bouncing off the walls first thing in the morning. (via A Treats Affair)

Rainbow Bars

Got a grumpy kid? Give them one of these multi-colored fruit cereal treats, and they’re bound to cheer up in a hurry. (via Bloom Designs)

Reese's Puffs Cereal Bars

Your bake sales will never be the same again, once you start making these bars. They’re affordable and easy to make, which means a wider profit margin for you *and* the school soccer team. (via A Pumpkin & A Princess)

Strawberry Shortcake No-Bake Treat Bars

Freeze-dried strawberries are the secret to the insane flavor in these bars. Immediately cut them into squares once they’re set, and pre-package them for on-the-go snacks all week. (via Iowa Girl Eats)

Share in the comments below or follow us on Pinterest for more easy kid-friendly recipe ideas!

This post has been updated.

Header image via A Pumpkin & A Princess.

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Hey Mamas! Enter To Win A Diaper Genie + A Refill Bundle

From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!

Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic

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Reese Witherspoon's Book Club Just Announced Its Rom-Com Pick For May!

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.

Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.

Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.
Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.
Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.
Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last 

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DéLana R.A. Dameron

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon 

Image via Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Image via Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld 

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens 

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes 

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed 

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng 

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister 

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara Nović 

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd 

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont 

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley 

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo 

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón 

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller 

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams 

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave 

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse 

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord 

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia 

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.

Other Stories On Reese Witherspoon's Book Club List

  • "Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang
  • "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
  • "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
  • "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
  • "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
  • "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
  • "On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
  • "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
  • "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
  • "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
  • "Anatomy" by Dana Schwartz
  • "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
  • "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
  • "Within These Wicked Walls" by Lauren Blackwood
  • "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
  • "The Downstairs Girl" by Stacey Lee
  • "Tokyo Ever After" by Emiko Jean
  • "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
  • "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
  • "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
  • "Outlawed" by Anna North
  • "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
  • "A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow" by Laura Taylor Namey
  • "Group" by Christie Tate
  • "Fable" by Adrienne Young
  • "His Only Wife" by Peace Medie Adzo
  • "Furia" by Yamile Saied Mendez
  • "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
  • "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson
  • "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
  • "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
  • "The Guest List" by Lisa Foley
  • "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
  • "UNTAMED" by Glennon Doyle
  • "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
  • "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
  • "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
  • "Conviction" by Denise Mina
  • "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moye
  • "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
  • "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
  • "The Last House Guest" by Megan Miranda
  • "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
  • "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
  • "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke
  • "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
  • "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
  • "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
  • "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
  • "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
  • "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
  • "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
  • "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
  • "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
  • "You Think It, I'll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • "Happiness" by Heather Harpham
  • "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
  • "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
  • "Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown
  • "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
  • "The Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
  • “The Rules of Magic” by Alice Hoffman
  • "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
  • "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
  • "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman

Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!

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This post has been updated.

Header Image via Amazon

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