Based on the BBC radio programme ‘Desert Island Discs’, we’ve adapted this idea to ask castaways to list up to eight books, one song and one luxury item that they couldn’t do without on a desert island.

The rules are fairly simple, any type of book can be selected, but we ask that at least half are lesfic. Choices should be justified in a paragraph or two. Any type of music is allowed. The luxury item must be inanimate and of no use in escaping the island or allowing communication from outside.

Other Desert Island Choices

My Book Choices

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This book literally changed my entire view of what kind of writer I wanted to be. I loved every single word. It’s so amazing and so well-crafted. I have reread it at least four times and will continue to do so until I die.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

I LOVE post-apocalyptic books. And since I’ll be on a desert island, I’ll need the survival tips.

VIP by Jackie D.

THIS BOOK IS INCREDIBLE. I love everything about it.

The Hours by Michael Cunningham

There’s something about this book that MOVES ME. I don’t know how to explain it other than to say it makes me feel like my life is going to, one day, mean more than it does today. Hopefully.

Bossypants by Tina Fey

My favorite person, Tina Fey, doling out some of the best advice ever. Come on. It’s funny and well-written and just amazing. Her words of wisdom I live by are: “Do your thing and don’t care if they like it.” 

Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown

The book itself is gorgeous and, I don’t know, there’s something about Brene Brown that makes me very happy.

Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters

It’s like porn. For the soul.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

I just love this book. I can’t explain it. I’ve re-read it so many times. It makes me sad and happy and scared and nervous and anxious and happy. I love it so, so much.

My Song Choice

SORRY! It’s a TIE!

Shake it Out by Florence + The Machine and The Archer by Taylor Swift

These songs mean THE WORLD TO ME. I am constantly listening to them. I’m not exaggerating, either. They are just too perfect.

Luxury item

My sonicare toothbrush. But I’d need a little solar powered battery charger, too… Clean teeth. Period.