Annie’s Favorite Things Vol 5:
Books have always been my secret ingredient — the quiet fuel behind my creativity, determination, and curiosity. They’ve helped me through baking experiments, business challenges, wild survival stories, and odd bits of science I never knew I needed.
Every book on this list has sparked something in me, whether it’s a new idea in the kitchen, a fresh perspective on running my business, or just a moment of wonder. These are the ones that have stayed with me — maybe they’ll surprise or inspire you too.
The E Myth
If you’re running a small biz (or thinking about it), The E-Myth Revisited is like having a no-nonsense bestie who tells you what’s actually up. 💖 This book taught me the hard truth: being good at what you do doesn’t mean you know how to run a business — ouch, right? It’s packed with smart advice, like the difference between working in your business and on it (game changer). Go read it — you’ll thank me later.
The Gluten Free Gourmet Bakes Bread
This book was pure inspiration — The Gluten-Free Gourmet Bakes Bread lit the spark that made me want to create something new. 💖 Bette Hagman didn’t just bake without wheat or gluten — she proved you could throw out the rulebook and still make something delicious. Her recipes (hello, soft rolls and breakfast buns!) reminded me that limits in the kitchen just mean it’s time to get creative. If you need a nudge to dream big, this is it.
Little Women
Little Women is one of those books I keep coming back to — I’ve read it more times than I can remember. There’s something about Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy that sticks with you — their messiness, their struggles, the way they figure things out (or don’t). It’s not just a cozy classic; it’s a reminder that chasing what matters is never simple. And yeah, I still cry at the same parts every time.
what if?
I’m always ready for the most random “what if” scenarios — and this book is my ultimate go-to. 💥 What If? by Randall Munroe tackles all the ridiculous questions you never knew you needed answers to — like what happens if you hit a baseball at 90% the speed of light (spoiler: chaos). Equal parts hilarious and brainy, it feeds that curious mind while prepping you for the absolute weirdness of life. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a good laugh and some science.
Hatchet
My childhood survivalist spirit was forged by Hatchet — the ultimate wilderness crash course. 🌲 Alone in the wild with just a hatchet, Brian’s journey is all about grit, learning on the fly, and never giving up (even when a tornado tries to wreck your campsite!). It’s a thrilling, heart-pounding reminder that sometimes the toughest challenges bring out your best self — and yeah, it definitely fueled my “be prepared for anything” mindset.
