Sandra’s Book List Favorites

I have to confess, I’m a certified book nerd. I’d rather curl up with a good book and a cup of tea and get lost in the pages, than do my daily to-do list. My favorite type, and what I eagerly collect, are flower and garden books. I also love a good self-help book to soothe the soul.

Since spring is a time for new growth, be it in the garden or within ourselves, I thought I would share some of my favorite reads on both topics.  

The pile of books by my bedside includes a treasure trove of new titles, along with a few old ones I often revisit.

Garden and Flower Books

Paris in Bloom
by Georgianna Lane

This book is a visual treasure if you are a flower girl like me. Like the title mentions, Georgianna, (who is American) photographed this book of Paris when it was in full bloom; think Paris in the spring. The photos will delight all Francophiles who love the picturesque scenery of Paris as much as its magnificent gardens and flowers.

A Year in Flowers
by Erin Benzakein

I’ve been a huge fan of Erin, ever since I read her first bestseller, Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden. Her new book about designing florals grown at her farm in the Washington Skagit Valley, is hands-down, my favorite of the two. Her floral designs are amazing, but what I find more remarkable is that she grew every stem in her garden for these arrangements!

Seasonal Flower Arranging
by Ariella Chezar

I’m so lucky to have had the privilege of studying under Ariella, a true inspirational floral designer who has made “foraging for material” a flower phenomenon. Her many accolades include being an accomplished lecturer and teacher to many.

Color Me Floral
by Kiana Underwood

Floral designer Kiana Underwood of the well-known brand Tulipina showcases her iconic style in this visual book about florals for every season. A must follow for any enthusiastic floral lover.

My Floral Affair
by Rachel Ashwell

I love the European touch of this book by Shabby Chic founder Rachel Ashwell, where flowers meet everything vintage. It is visual eye candy for anyone needing a boost of florals to add to their home.

The Garden in Every Sense and Season
by Tovah Martin

Written by garden guru and former editor Tovah Martin, this book is a great source of information if you’re serious about growing a beautiful garden and exploring it through the seasons. I love how she brings you on an adventure as each season passes in her garden.

My French Country Home -
Entertaining Through the Seasons
by Sharon Santoni

My dear friend from Normandy, with whom I co-host annual tours to France, makes gardening and entertaining look enchanting and easy. This book is the base for her popular blog and magazine with the same name. We also love her earlier book, My Stylish French Girlfriends

Self-Help and Business Books

As a spiritual person, I am always searching for new sources of insight, wisdom and inspiration. These self-help, personal growth and business books have helped guide me through my entrepreneurial journey.

Everything is Figureoutable
by Marie Forleo

This is, by far, one of my favorites. Life coach and business guru Marie Forleo gives sound advice for anyone looking to conquer their fears and dream big. As she says, “nothing in life is that complicated that you can’t figure out.” This book will change the way you problem solve, and just may change your life. A must read.

The Universe Has Your Back
by Gabby Bernstein

New York Times best seller and spirit junkie Gabby Bernstein captures imaginations with her many books on spirituality and living a life filled with love and joy. What makes this book so special is Gabby’s honesty about her life struggles, along with the story of how she healed from them through her practices.

Playing Big
by Tara Mohr

An expert on women’s leadership and well being, Tara empowers women to play bigger in their lives. If you’ve ever felt like you have so much to offer, yet are unsure how to take that next step, this book helps clarify your message and confidently push you forward to what is your life’s work. I guarantee that you will find yourself and your dreams will come true.

Grit -The Power of Passion & Perseverance
by Angela Duckworth

Psychologist and professor Angela Duckworth found through her research that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent, but a special blend of passion, persistence & attitude. This inspirational read serves as a good reminder that grit does matter.

Invaluable Laws of Growth
by John Maxwell

In another one of my top picks, John Maxwell gives tried and true principles on how to grow and reach your full potential. His mantra to ask “what is the most valuable use of my time right now?” has been a recurring thought of mine when I wake up and plan my day.

How about you?

What are a few of your favorite books that rest on your nightstand? I’d love for you to share in the comments below! I’m always looking for new titles to bring on buying trips to France…
Happy reading!

XOXO,

Sandra

Read Blog: 2022 French-Inspired Book Picks

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