Jennie Garth, the renowned actress best known for her role in the iconic television series *Beverly Hills, 90210*, has recently shared her thoughts on literature that resonates deeply with her. In a candid interview with *Page Six* to promote her memoir, *I Choose Me*, Garth revealed the significance of books that share authentic narratives and offer meaningful insights.
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At the age of 54, Garth is not only embracing her past but also navigating her personal growth and transformation. Her memoir explores themes of anxiety, divorce, and the pursuit of joy in her life’s “second act.” In a literary landscape filled with various genres, she gravitates towards works that inspire self-reflection and celebrate identity, courage, and personal evolution.
During the interview, Garth emphasised the types of books she values the most. “I love reading those that tell the truth,” she explained. According to her, the best stories can be found in works where “someone bravely shares their story” or in fiction that conveys profound lessons about oneself. This appreciation for authenticity has guided her choices, which she enthusiastically shared.
Among Garth’s top recommendations is *Sister Outsider* by Audre Lorde, a collection of essays and speeches that delves into crucial social issues. Garth remarked that this book opened her eyes to the experiences of women from different walks of life. She described Lorde’s writing as “honest, powerful, and beautiful” and expressed her admiration for the courage with which Lorde articulates her truths. For Garth, the essays prompt reflection on the experiences of women who strive to assert their identities, even when feeling like outsiders themselves.
Another book that Garth cherishes is *Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype* by Clarissa Pinkola Estés. She referred to it as “inspiring” and noted its lasting impact. Estés, a psychoanalyst and storyteller, weaves together myth and folklore to reconnect women with their “instinctual nature.” Garth expressed her belief that the book serves as a conversation with a wise friend, rekindling the reader’s recognition of their inherent power and untamed spirit.
Garth also recommended *Devout: Losing My Faith to Find Myself* by David Archuleta. Describing it as “incredibly honest and vulnerable,” she highlighted Archuleta’s journey from a closeted Mormon teenager to a global sensation. The memoir confronts the struggles of self-identity against the backdrop of fame and religious expectations, a theme that Garth finds relatable. She noted that anyone grappling with their own path or identity would likely connect with Archuleta’s narrative, which ultimately advocates for discovering one’s true self.
In her own memoir, *I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose, and Embracing Reinvention*, Garth chronicles her journey of self-discovery following significant life changes. The title, inspired by a phrase from her *90210* days and later her podcast, reflects Garth’s commitment to prioritising herself. She candidly shares untold stories from her time in Hollywood while also addressing her struggles with anxiety, divorce, and the pursuit of new love and happiness.
Additionally, Garth highlighted *What’s Going Right: A Powerful New Method for Optimising Your Mental Health* by Paul Conti. She praised this self-improvement book for shifting readers’ perspectives from focusing on negatives to recognising what is going well in their lives. Garth believes that Conti encourages a greater understanding of oneself and the patterns that govern behaviour, fostering healthier mindsets and relationships.
Lastly, Garth expressed her appreciation for *The Pivot Year* by Brianna Wiest, which offers daily meditations designed to resonate with personal transitions. She described it as a book that meets the reader at pivotal moments of life, prompting reflection on necessary changes, even amidst uncertainty.
*I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose, and Embracing Reinvention* is now available, offering readers a glimpse into Garth’s life and the lessons she has learned. With her carefully curated reading list, Garth continues to inspire others to seek authenticity, courage, and joy in both literature and life itself.