Well-Read: Jess Trevaskis

Really big, really sad novels.

A few weeks ago Read My Blurb’s Daisy shared her book thoughts for Well-Read and now, as promised, the other half of the book club, Jess, lays out her library for us. A woman after my own heart, Jess loves “emotionally taxing books” and if you ever found yourself wondering what a psychologist-in-training reads, you’re very much in luck.

Tell me a little about yourself and what you like to read

I’m Jess and I’m from Melbourne! While I endure the never-ending degree that is Psychology, I split my week between four jobs within retail, admin and support work roles. When it comes to reading, my preference would be to exclusively read really big, really sad novels – fiction or non-fiction. But beyond this love for emotionally taxing books, I’ll regularly enjoy a lighter work of literary/contemporary fiction or the odd memoir on audiobook.

What are your must-read books?

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Just finished this one and it’s an automatic all-time favourite. It definitely fits the criteria of being incredibly sad, yet there’s the perfect mix of hope in there to keep it from getting too disheartening. I was instantly in love with the narrative voice of Demon — a funny, clever and loveable adolescent who has grown up too fast due to experiencing a childhood full of adversity. 

In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss by Amy Bloom

Speaking of sad books — this one takes the cake. Amy Bloom wrote this memoir to share her husband’s story after he sought assisted suicide once receiving his diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease. It is beautiful and heart-wrenching as it explores loss and grief in a uniquely open, vulnerable and honest way. It’s one of those profound books that prompts a lot of valuable reflection.

Sunbathing by Isobel Beech

I loved Sunbathing for the vivid imagery and poetic prose. It is such a beautiful exploration of love, loss, identity and healing. And I’m a fiend for any book where the central relationship is a supportive, loving female friendship.

You Be Mother by Meg Mason

I love anything Meg Mason writes, says or does. I think she is unparalleled in her ability to create believable and multidimensional characters who are psychologically astute. Her writing in this is (as always) so clever, effortless and witty, while including valuable commentary on belonging, loneliness and love.

My Body by Emily Ratajkowski 

My Body is the most recent non-fiction I’ve read that really stands out to me. I deeply admired Emily Ratajkowski honesty and self-awareness when sharing her experiences with hyper-sexualisation, objectification, gender expectations and power dynamics. She has a precise, considered voice and this one stimulated a lot of reflection and discussion. 

What are you reading next?

I have absolutely no idea! I’m currently taking a while to get through The Bee Sting by Paul Murray so, once I have finished that, I’ll probably be wanting something a bit more fast-paced and addictive. After reading Daisy’s responses though, But The Girl by Jessica Zhan Mei Yu might have to be at the top of my TBR pile.

Enjoy!