Vacations are all about recharging, and what better way to unwind than with a book that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit? The Living Now Book Awards celebrate titles that inspire a better world and a better self. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, relaxing at a cabin, or simply taking a break in your own backyard, here are 22 award-winning lifestyle books that are perfect companions for your next getaway.
For the Foodie Adventurer
1. Eat Like a Legend
by Dan Churchill
Category: Cookbook/Gift/Specialty (Gold)
This energizing cookbook blends super-easy recipes with high-performance nutrition, making it a fun, flavorful way to fuel your body while you relax. Perfect for whipping up vacation meals that feel indulgent and good for you.
2. The Christmas Devotional
by Michelle Medlock Adams & Andy Clapp
Category: Cookbook/Gift/Specialty (Silver)
Cozy up during your downtime with heartwarming reflections and seasonal inspiration, ideal for quiet moments on vacation.
3. The Diabetes-Free Cookbook & Exercise Guide
by John Poothullil MD & Colleen Cackowski
Category: Cookbook/Gift/Specialty (Bronze)
Discover delicious recipes and simple exercises that help keep your blood sugar balanced—perfect for staying healthy on the go.
For the Self-Discovery Seeker
4. Inner Field Trip
by Leesa Renée Hall
Category: Journal/Coloring Book (Gold)
Take a 30-day journey of personal exploration and healing anywhere you travel. This journal invites mindfulness and self-discovery at your own pace.
5. Creative Flow
by Jenny Hahn
Category: Journal/Coloring Book (Silver)
Unleash your creativity with engaging prompts and exercises that refresh your mind and spirit while you unwind.
6. A Woman’s Guide to Inner Child Healing
by Gloria Zhang
Category: Journal/Coloring Book (Bronze)
Use gentle guidance to overcome trauma and embrace your best self—great for introspection during your vacation.
For the Nature Lover
7. Beekeeping for Gardeners
by Richard Rickitt
Category: Green Living (Gold)
Reconnect with nature by exploring the fascinating world of beekeeping—a rewarding hobby to spark your curiosity on vacation.
8. The Winter Market Gardener
by Jean-Martin Fortier and Catherine Sylvestre
Category: Green Living (Silver)
Learn how to grow fresh produce year-round, inspiring sustainable habits even when you’re away from home.
10. Powerful
by Maisie Hill
Category: Motivation – Improvement (Gold)
Step into your own power with this uplifting guide that helps you become the expert of your own life—perfect for recharging your confidence on vacation.
11. Good Awkward
by Henna Pryor
Category: Motivation – Improvement (Silver)
Celebrate the awkward and embrace imperfection with humor and bravery—an inspiring read to lighten your mood.
12. Wonderhell
by Laura Gassner Otting
Category: Motivation – Improvement (Bronze)
Discover why success can feel confusing and learn practical ways to thrive, making your downtime a growth opportunity.
9. Eating Does It
by Kathryn J. Pollard, MS with Stacey Verardo, PhD
Category: Green Living (Bronze)
Explore how thoughtful food choices can heal both you and the planet—ideal for mindful travelers.
For the Inspiration Hunter
For the Memoir Buff
13. Trails and Tribulations
by Susie Chan
Category: Memoir – Female (Gold)
Join Susie Chan on her inspiring running adventures, a motivating read for outdoor lovers and dreamers on the go.
14. Black Again
by LaTonya Summers
Category: Memoir – Female (Silver)
Explore a powerful story of racial identity and self-discovery that invites deep reflection during your travels.
15. Make a Home Out of You
by Ginelle Testa
Category: Memoir – Female (Bronze)
Find inspiration in the journey of creating home and belonging, no matter where life takes you.
16. The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews
by Rossi
Category: Memoir – Female (Bronze)
Dive into a bold memoir about identity and rebellion that captivates and challenges during your vacation reading.
For the Spiritually Curious
17. A Book of Balance
by Lucas Buchholz
Category: Enlightenment/Spirituality (Gold)
Discover ancient wisdom for living a balanced life while caring for the earth, an enriching companion for your journey.
18. Timeless Management
by Venerable Master Hsing Yunz
Category: Enlightenment/Spirituality (Silver)
Explore Buddhist-inspired leadership principles that bring peace and purpose to your travels and beyond.
19. The Healing Moment
by Dr. Donna Marks
Category: Enlightenment/Spirituality (Bronze)
Learn practical paths to turn challenges into love and growth, offering calm and clarity on vacation.
For the Worry-Weary
20. The Centered Heart
by Susi Amendola
Category: Relaxation/Mindfulness (Gold)
Vacation is the perfect time to de-stress. This evidence-based guide teaches mind-body practices that improve emotional well-being and heart health—slow down, breathe deep, and come back to center.
21. Anxiety Elephants for Teens
by Caris Snider
Category: Relaxation/Mindfulness (Silver)
A gentle 90-day devotional to calm anxiety, perfect for teens and anyone seeking peace while away.
22. The Well Helper
by Katherine King, PsyD
Category: Relaxation/Mindfulness (Bronze)
Avoid burnout and unlock your personal growth potential—ideal for caregivers and helpers taking a well-deserved break.
Final Thoughts: Let These Books Inspire Your Next Chapter
Whether you’re lounging by the lake or planning your next big step, a powerful book can shift your mindset and recharge your spirit. That’s what the Living Now Book Awards are all about—celebrating books that help us live richer, more purposeful lives.
If you’re searching for your next inspiring read, explore this year’s list of winners. And if you’ve written a book that encourages growth or transformation, consider entering—it could be next year’s standout.
