Do What Feels Good - By: Hannah Bronfman

Hannah Bronfman has been one of my favorite fashion and lifestyle influencers that I’ve been following for a few years now. I love how she has perfected the art of balance! I always admired her homemade dishes that seem to taste amazing but are still healthy choices. As a nutrition student in college, I am no stranger to the fundamentals of healthy eating, but Hannah has put together some great recipes to suit just about anyone. She emphasizes the importance of healthy living and goes into detail about what your body reacts to and why. As most women get older, we want to preserve our beauty in any way possible. Hannah does a great job by demonstrating the link to healthy eating and its effects on our beauty. This is not your ordinary wellness and nutrition book, Hannah makes it easy to read, relatable and encouraging with her charisma and authenticity. If you’re a young woman, especially of childbearing age, and want to learn more about your body and healthy eating, “Do what Feels Good” should be your go to! I’m really excited about trying the “Body Benefit Bowl” made with artichokes, shrimp, walnuts, beets, and peas. And the healthy cocktail “Blue Agave” made with tequila, pineapple, ginger beer and Blue Majik. As a New Yorker always on the go and working late hours, these easy and time friendly recipes will surely become a staple.

If Beale Street could Talk - James Baldwin

“If Beale Street Could Talk” was always on my to read list for sometime now, but when the major motion film came out a few months ago, I made up my mind that I needed to read the book before watching the movie. James Baldwin is one of my favorite poets, authors and activists. Although there is continued evolution, his reading will always be relatable and relevant as an African American woman living in the US. “If Beale Street Could Talk” is a love story between a young African American couple who face many adversities because of their age, race and economical status. Above all, love pulled them through it all. This novel will have you laughing, crying and screaming. If you are moved by a good love story, no matter your background, you should definitely give it a read.

Becoming by Michelle Obama

Before reading “Becoming” I didn’t know much about Michelle Obama’s life story, but I always admired her classiness both with how she carried herself and in her way of dressing. She is so intelligent and always speaks with such passion and eloquence. In her autobiography Michelle talks about growing up in Chicago’s south side, about her adversities, and how it helped mold her into to the woman she has become. I loved how open and transparent she was when telling her story. It was very empowering and relatable as a black woman that has accomplished such greatness. Michelle is definitely a role model to me as she is to many.