If you are pressed for time (and face it, who isn’t?), you may not have time to read a book a month. But if you want to keep yourself entertained and informed, there are five books you should add to your list for 2010 (if you haven’t read them already):

• Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner – As someone who doesn’t like math, I think the concept behind this book and its sequel, Superfreakeconomics, is fascinating and even, dare I say, interesting! This book makes you think about the cause and effect of things such as abortion rates and crime levels or how the “corporate” structure of gangs mirrors big businesses like McDonald’s.
• Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn– I haven’t yet read this book, but it’s on my list. Many reviewers are calling this “the most important book” they’ve ever read. The book discusses the importance of the role of women worldwide and how effective change agents women really are, both around the globe and in our own nation.
• Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual by Michael Pollan – This is on my list too. A simple, short ( at 112 pages) book with “rules” about what you should be eating and how to make better food decisions. Is it common sense? Probably. But if you need a reminder (and Lord knows I do), this is a good start.
• Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay – This is the first in the series about this lovable serial killer who only preys on those who are guilty of heinous crimes themselves and who have slipped through the fingers of Lady Justice. This is a fun read, purely entertainment. If you like the Showtime series, you will love the book and there aren’t many spoilers between the two. If you only want to read for fun and have a sick sense of humor, you will love Dex.
• Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert – If you want something light to read, this is the book. It’s funny and interesting, but not too heavy.  Gilbert chronicles her real life exploration of food, love and spirituality in Italy, India and Indonesia. I recommend this to anyone interested in just breezing through an uplifting novel.

I realize this list isn’t for everyone. In fact, looking at it, it looks heavy, but I promise it isn’t as serious as it looks. But whatever you decide to read in 2010, just make an effort to do it. Reading is relaxing, fun and a stress-reducer, and who couldn’t use all that?

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