Three books that helped get me through heartbreak

Time heals they say. I say bullsh*t. Some heartbreaks cut through you so deeply that it takes a long time to heal. That’s ok because you become a more empathetic person and know exactly what to avoid next time – a useful skill in the search for love. When I am heartbroken nothing eases my pain better than a powerful book and a cup of sencha green tea.

These books aren't really about break ups – that would be the equivalent of sitting in a dark room listening to Adele. I go for inspirational books instead, ones that hold a beautiful moral and leave me feeling uplifted.

Here are my three go-to books when I am heartbroken.

1. The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Nothing beats a classic. Going by the cover and illustrations you may assume that this is a kid’s book. But “The Little Prince” has something for all ages. The metaphors are just incredible, author has packed so much meaning into such a slim book.What I get from this book is perspective. It reminds me to not take everything so seriously like some of the adult characters. It also has a strong love message between the Little Prince and his rose which gives me hope.

2. The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho

This book is one of the reasons why I never read reviews. Critics didn’t like “The Alchemist” because of its simple narrative. But I think that it has magical beauty and power. I can still remember the sentence that convinced me that this book was a masterpiece: “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” This was so true. Any time in the past when I set my mind to something, things would start falling into place in an almost spooky way.

This doesn’t mean you can laze around and some supernatural force will help you out. Another famous quote I love is: “Your dreams don’t work unless you do.”  Set goals, work towards achieving them, prepare yourself for the next amazing opportunity and you will see magic happen. I don’t want to spoil the book for you but just trust me when I say that it will cast a spell over you. We all need a little bit of magic in our lives so go pick up a copy today.

3. The Five People You Meet in Heaven, Mitch Albom

I was so engrossed in this book when I first read it that I missed my stop every morning for a week. It was also a popular book with anyone sitting next to me, it was like a magnet. I remember one morning catching the guy next to me following along page by page. Now, unless the guy looks like Brad (which is rarely the case), I have no time for over-the-shoulder readers. I can’t get too mad though – this book is addictive.

The reason I love this book so much is its message of seeing the value in everyone you meet. I strongly believe that you don’t meet people by chance, there is always a reason and it’s up to you to find it. Everyone has value in them and knowledge to teach you, if you let them. This book made me a much nicer person to my friends, family and even strangers.

I know these books will leave you feeling uplifted, whether you are feeling heartbroken or not. What are your favourite books to get you through heartbreak?