Calling all girls... we have the answer to your winter blues. Take some time out to focus on your mind, body and spirit by curling up with one of these books.
These fun reads are guaranteed to give you a hefty dose of self-esteem and tickle your funny-bone at the same time.
How to Look Good Naked – By Gok Wan In How to Look Good Naked, celebrity stylist Gok Wan reveals his tips on how to look good with clothes on and off! Unlike the cattier feel of the What Not to Wear girls, Gok has an infectious, genuine fondness for women. He wants us to feel good as well as looking hot. And the best part? All Gok’s tips can be used right now. You heard me. No diets, no plastic surgery, no designer clothes required – just a hefty dose of self-love and respect. Gok lovingly names the typical body shapes “Booty Babe”, “Juicy Pear”, “Curvy Girl” and “Sexy Broad”. His tips on dressing for your body shape are invaluable, and utterly achievable. My favourite section was Gok’s lingerie tips – I’m off to buy decent underwear right now! An awesome book that every girl should read. HarperCollins, RRP $34.99
The Big Fat Bitch Book – by Kate Figes This is a book of two halves – one side of the book is for “Grown Up Girls” while the other side is for younger girls. The premise of The Big Fat Bitch Book is that author Kate Figes wanted to examine the art of bitching, and why we do it. We use it to bond, we use it in battle, and we use it just because it can be damn good fun to be a be-yatch for a day. The book takes a balanced approach – Figes discusses the long-term damage that can be caused from bitching and backstabbing, while offering constructive suggestions on how to make being a ‘bitch’ work for you. In a good way! Hachette Livre, RRP $36.99
The Bunny Book: How To Walk, Talk, Tease and Please Like A Playboy Bunny Former Playboy Bunnies Serria, Penelope and Deanna share their tips on attaining the Playboy attitude. I approached the book with some apprehension, but ended up thoroughly enjoying it. The Bunny Book is not a perfect read - the girls’ tone is somewhat overly excitable and super-enthusiastic - but there are some great lessons to be learned. The book’s strengths lie in the “Flirting” and “Projecting the Image” sections. The Bunny Book is great for tips on how to ooze confidence, and how to give off the “I’m single” vibe without seeming desperate. These girls know their stuff, and they certainly have a hilarious way with words! Chronicle Books, RRP $44.99
100 Health Boosting Foods In the depths of winter, this colourful book brightened my day. 100 Health Boosting Foods radiates positive energy and good health. The book contains tips on eating your way to optimum health, with information on vitamins and foods full of antioxidants. Each food group has fun recipes alongside its nutritional information. The index is also super-handy to use if you’re after inspiration – I discovered that my favourite papaya can be grilled with yoghurt and brown sugar for a healthy, nutritious treat. I’m off to eat my way to good health and great skin! Hachette Livre, RRP $35.99