If You Loved The Nap Ministry's Rest Deck, Read These 9 Books

Discover more uplifting, thought-provoking, and visually stunning reads that explore the importance of rest, self-care, and finding respite in a chaotic world.

Who these books are for

The Nap Ministry's Rest Deck is a powerful visual guide to the importance of rest and self-care in today's fast-paced world. If you found its message inspiring and resonant, you're likely to appreciate these nine books that explore similar themes of finding balance, resilience, and inner peace. From practical guides to thought-provoking fiction and imaginative children's stories, this curated list offers a diverse range of restful reads to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.

The collection

  1. Rest Is Resistance A Manifesto

    In this powerful, genre-bending manifesto, Tricia Hersey, aka the Nap Bishop, shows us that rest is not just a necessary act, but a revolutionary one. Hersey challenges Grind Culture, capitalism, and white supremacy by reimagining rest as a form of resistance and a reclaiming of power. With lyrical prose and practical advice rooted in spirituality, activism, and Afrofuturism, Rest Is Resistance is a timely call to prioritize our humanity and envision a well-rested world where we are truly enough.

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  2. Front Desk (Front Desk #1) (Scholastic Gold)

    Meet Mia Tang, a clever and courageous 10-year-old motel manager who's hiding more than the guests her immigrant parents secretly shelter. With humor, heart, and a dream to become a writer, Mia navigates the challenges of her unique life, showing that kindness, resilience, and determination can help overcome even the toughest obstacles. This powerful and relatable debut novel will resonate with readers of all ages.

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  3. Restrung A Memoir of Music and Transformation

    In this unflinching memoir, Vijay Gupta recounts his meteoric rise as a prodigious violinist, from Carnegie Hall at 8 to the LA Philharmonic at 19, amidst addiction, estrangement, and private collapse. But Restrung is more than a tale of talent and turmoil - it's a profound exploration of how music became Gupta's lifeline, his connection to others and his own humanity. Through his journey, Gupta reveals how art has the power to transform not just audiences, but also the artists themselves. This searing, deeply moving memoir is for anyone who has ever found solace in music, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

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  4. The Gift of Not Belonging How Outsiders Thrive in a World of Joiners

    In "The Gift of Not Belonging", Rami Kaminski reveals that embracing your status as an outsider can be a powerful catalyst for self-discovery and success. By shedding the pressure to conform, you unlock fresh perspectives and opportunities that often elude those consumed by a need to belong. This thought-provoking guide shows you how to harness the unique strengths of your nonconformity to thrive in a world that often favors "joiners".

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  5. Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games)

    In Suzanne Collins' gripping prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping, witness Haymitch Abernathy's harrowing journey through the 50th Hunger Games. Plucked from his family and doomed by the Capitol's sinister machinations, Haymitch must find the strength to survive and inspire rebellion, even as his life hangs in the balance. An electrifying exploration of love, loss, and fierce defiance in the face of oppression, Sunrise on the Reaping is a must-read for fans of The Hunger Games trilogy.

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  6. The Comfort Book

    In this heartening companion, Matt Haig shares tender reminders and inspiring insights gleaned from across history and the globe, offering solace during life's tumult and encouraging readers to savor the present moment. Through stories, lists, and personal musings, Haig's The Comfort Book provides a soothing balm for the soul, reminding us to find hope and beauty amidst life's complexities.

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  7. Sleepless

    In Gordon Korman's addictive Sleepless, five kids discover they're no longer bound by the constraints of sleep - a secret they must keep hidden as they use their newfound hours to outshine everyone else. But as their mysterious condition brings them together, they start to unravel the truth behind their sleeplessness, embarking on a thrilling adventure of self-discovery and unbreakable friendship.

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  8. The Year We Learned to Fly

    Immerse yourself in this captivating tale where a brother and sister learn to overcome boredom and anger through the power of imagination, guided by their wise grandmother's inspiring advice. Jacqueline Woodson's poetic prose and Rafael Lopez's vibrant artwork transport you on a journey of discovery, celebrating the extraordinary resilience and creativity that lies within us all, connecting us to our ancestors' strength and ingenuity.

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  9. Magic Tree House Fact Tracker Graphic Novel: Titanic

    Dive into the story of the Titanic with Jack and Annie from the Magic Tree House in this nonfiction graphic novel. Through their eyes, explore life on the ship, the tragic events of that fateful night, and the aftermath. With updated facts and fun tidbits, this engaging format brings history to life, perfectly complementing your favorite Magic Tree House adventures.

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  10. Mummies and Pyramids A Nonfiction Companion to Magic Tree House #3: Mummies in the Morning

    Unravel the secrets of ancient Egypt with Jack and Annie! This nonfiction companion to their magical adventure "Mummies in the Morning" delves into the facts behind the fiction, covering crucial questions about mummy-making, hieroglyphics, daily life, and the incredible pyramids. With up-to-date photos, illustrations, and fun anecdotes, this engaging Fact Tracker is the perfect way for curious kids to expand their knowledge of this fascinating civilization.

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Frequently asked questions

What kind of books are on this list?
The recommendations span self-care guides, memoirs, fiction, and children's books, all with a focus on rest, resilience, and finding peace.
Are these books similar in style to The Rest Deck?
While the formats differ, these books share a similar uplifting and visually engaging tone with The Nap Ministry's Rest Deck.
Can I find these books at my local library?
Yes, most public libraries carry these titles. Check your local catalog or ask a librarian for assistance in finding them.