Month in Review: January

One of the things I decided I wanted to start this year were monthly recaps. I love reading them, I love watching them, so might as well do them! January was a whirlwind of resolutions, studying, and new things to look forward to in the year. Let's see what went down!

What I Read: 

I read a total of 9 books to kickstart my goodreads challenge of 60 books:

The Infinite Sea by: Rick Yancey: 3/5 stars
Six of Crows by: Leigh Bardugo: 5/5 stars
Everything, Everything by: Nicola Yoon: 4/5 stars
A Work in Progress by: Connor Franta: 5/5 stars
Carry On by: Rainbow Rowell: 3/5 stars
We Are All Made of Molecules by: Susin Nielsen: 4/5 stars
Vanishing Girls by: Lauren Oliver: 4.5/5 stars
Love Letters to the Dead by: Ava Dellaira: 3.5/5 stars
In Place of Never by: Julie Anne Lindsey: 5/5 stars

Favourite book of the month: Definitely A Work in Progress! I think what made this book so special was the fact that I was able to get a signed copy, and this is actually the first signed book I own! I've loved Connor Franta's Youtube videos for years, and this book was inspiring, heartwarming, and also very aesthetically pleasing.

What I Blogged: 

A total of 9 posts were put up this month! My favourite post I put up was on Blog Development and Growth, and how it's important to not compare yourself to perhaps bigger and more popular blogs. I appreciated all of the feedback on that post!

My Favourite Blog Posts of the Month: 

I really wanted to shed light on some very insightful and enjoyable posts that I read this month:

Cee Arr of Diary of a Reading Addict talks about depression and staying strong: Look for the Light

In wake of recent drama, Ranu of The Araliya Bookshelf writes an open letter to the book blogging community: An Open Letter to the Book Blogging Community

Erin of the Hardcover Lover discusses why teens like reading dark themes in YA: Dark Themes in YA Literature

Sierra of the Nerdgirl Review shares a personal story and discusses asexuality in media. My Need for More Asexual Characters

Blogger of the Month: 

As a way of showing my appreciation for the many lovely people on the internet, I decided to feature a Blogger of the Month, to showcase one of the amazing people in the community :)

This month's blogger is...

GERALDINE OF CORRALLING BOOKS!!! 

I became blog buddies with Geraldine last month, and she constantly is so friendly, funny and genuinely a lovely person to talk to. Thank you for being so kind, Geraldine!

Personally of This Month: 

I just finished exams, which wasn't as stressful as I thought it would be. Most of my classes were pretty easy, and it's 2nd semester which will be demanding. However I'm excited to start fresh and learn new things!

I REACHED 10K PAGEVIEWS!!! Seriously, this meant so much to me and I am so happy and thankful for every single one of those views. *hugs you all*.

I entered a writing competition! My school board is hosting a Young Author's competition, with all ages being able to submit short stories. Winners will be announced in June. *fingers crossed*.

I started journal writing! Recently I've been writing down thoughts, feelings and emotions, which have really helped me to de-stress and stop worrying. Getting things out of my head and onto a page makes me feel so less cluttered inside!

And that was my month! I'm excited to being new things in February and hopefully I enjoy the first few bits of 2nd semester! Halfway to summer. *sighs*.

How was your month?! Did you do anything exciting? What are you looking forward to in February?!

Emily @ Paperback Princess