By Sallie Jimenez

Finding ways to decompress is so important for nurses, and one of the most rewarding ways to do it is by escaping into a good book.

Books allow nurses to unwind and reconnect with themselves, which is especially meaningful in a profession defined by caring for others.

Stacey Boetto, DNP, FNP-C,leads a community book club where nurses nationwide gather online to share their latest reads.

“We love to read different books, discuss them, and discover how each of us interprets the books differently,” she said. “But I mostly enjoy the friendships we build amongst nurses who live miles apart.”

Books give nurses more than entertainment — they offer a way to recharge emotionally, connect with others, and regain perspective after demanding shifts, Boetto explained.

“Knowing what we each face in our careers and the responsibilities we juggle outside of work, it’s important for us to join with like-minded individuals we can relate to and detach from work once in a while,” Boetto said.

She also sees reading as a form of self-care. "It’s very much part of a wellness routine for many of us," she said. “Reading is our escape from daily life. It’s a way for us to put work out of our heads.”

Leading the book club has also shown her how wide-ranging nurses’ interests can be. Reading preferences are as unique as the nurses who choose them.

According to Boetto, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to genre for nurses. Horror, science fiction, self-help, fantasy, and real-life stories all have their place on nurses’ bookshelves.

For many, audiobooks are the format of choice. Boetto says many nurses choose audiobooks over printed pages, letting stories unfold during commutes, lunch breaks, or while tackling household chores, tuning in and turning off the noise of the day.

That shared love of reading strengthens connections beyond the books themselves.

In a profession where long hours and emotional intensity can leave little room for socializing, sharing books creates common ground and shared joy.

Here’s a list of books nurses recommend, according to Boetto. Maybe one will make your TBR (To Be Read) list.

Books nurses are loving right now

1. We Will Be Jaguars: A Memoir of My People by Nemonte Nenquimo and Mitch Anderson

This poetic and powerful memoir by an Indigenous activist blends personal storytelling with a passionate call to protect the Amazon and its people.

Available at Bookshop

2. Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

A heartfelt romantic comedy about two ER doctors navigating personal challenges and finding love through unexpected connections.

Available at Books-A-Million

3. The Women by Kristin Hannah

An unforgettable novel that sheds light on the overlooked experiences of female nurses who served during the Vietnam War.

Available at Barnes & Noble

4. I Hadn’t Meant to Tell You This by Jacqueline Woodson

A young adult story about friendship and courage, told with Woodson’s signature lyrical grace.

Available at Goodreads

5. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

A charming and emotional novel about grief and healing, featuring an unlikely bond between a lonely widow and a brilliant octopus.

Available at Bookshop

6. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

A warm, magical tale about identity, found family, and the power of belonging.

Available at Powell’s Books

7. Ward D by Freida McFadden

This dark, fast-paced medical thriller explores what happens when things go wrong in a psychiatric ward. Perfect for fans of psychological tension.

Available at Sourcebooks

8. Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak

A supernatural suspense novel with clever twists and eerie illustrations — perfect for horror and mystery fans.

Available at Amazon

9. The Nurse’s Secret by Amanda Skenandore

Historical fiction about a pickpocket-turned-nursing-student in 1880s New York, based on real events at Bellevue Hospital.

Available at Barnes & Noble

10. Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood

A clever young adult romantic comedy about a teen chess prodigy balancing grief, romance, and the thrill of competition.

Available at AbeBooks

11. Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven

Short, inspiring life lessons from a former Navy SEAL that encourage resilience through simple, actionable habits.

Available at Audiobooks.com

Don’t forget — you can also find many of these titles at your favorite local bookstore. Supporting local shops is a great way to build community and discover more entertaining and educational options. Happy reading!