6 Of The Most Popular Low-Sugar Drinks, Ranked

Meredith Holser
Jul 19, 2024
Low Sugar Drinks

I always start my mornings off with The Hot Girl Drink Trifecta: water, coffee, and a fun little beverage of my choosing. More often than not, I opt for a tasty sparkling water for the third option, since it’s not totally loaded with sugar and saves me from feeling like a crazy person before my day even starts.

Though I have a lot of experience when it comes to sparkling water, low-sugar drinks go way past just a can of naturally-flavored bubbly. There’s tons of prebiotic sodas and other healthy, juicy sips on the market now, and I have truly tried a wide array of them. Based on my own sipping experience, these 6 low-sugar drinks are the best ones you can get – I’m ranking them according to their taste, sugar content, and overall vibes. Let’s get into it!

Amazon

1. Aura Bora

Ranking first is Aura Bora – sparkling water cans that come in so many unique flavor combos, from Peppermint Watermelon to Lavender Cucumber. Every sip I take of Aura Bora never fails to keep things fresh and interesting. The flavors are directly derived from natural herbs, fruits, and flowers, with absolutely zero sugar. They're by no means overly sweet, but aren't bland in any way, no matter what flavor I'm drinking. I also adore the artsy cans these drinks come in! They're typically covered in cute, colorful animal art, which brings me so much joy for such a little can.

Amazon

2. OLIPOP

Next up is none other than OLIPOP. The hype is so real! OLIPOP does have some sugar in their cans, though the amounts are quite minimal. My favorite flavor of them all has to be the Classic Root Beer, which only contains 2 grams of sugar. More than anything, I like sipping these low-sugar drinks for their added digestive benefits – OLIPOP is formulated with prebiotics, plant fiber, and botanicals that help aid my microbiome and overall digestive health, so I feel great drinking it and knowing it's going good things for my body.

Amazon

3. Bai

Landing third on my personal ranking of low-sugar drinks is Bai. I have been gulping this stuff down for years! One bottle only has 1 gram of sugar, and the formulation is more focused around antioxidants and electrolytes to keep me feeling superbly hydrated. The taste is quite immaculate, too – I typically sip on the Puna Coconut Pineapple flavor, and it tastes very true to actual coconut and pineapple. It's smooth and sweet, without any of the excess sugar.

Amazon

4. Topo Chico Sabores

These Topo Chico Sabores cans are another favorite of mine when it comes to sparkling waters, though I find I don't reach for them as often as I do other low-sugar drinks – hence their #4 ranking. They're still so wonderful, crisp, and packed with flavor, which is a necessity for any sparkling bev, in my opinion. There's absolutely no sugar in them, which is a major plus side! I adore this Blueberry Hibiscus flavor, but they also come in Tangerine Ginger and Lime Mint varieties which are just as yummy.

Amazon

5. Recess

Recess is another functional low-sugar drink that I like, but I can't say I love it. These cans range from having 3-4 grams of sugar, and they definitely taste noticeably sweeter than the rest of the drinks on this list. I do appreciate the fact that these beverages are made with magnesium, lemon balm, and L-theanine that are meant to support my mood, but I honestly haven't felt the effects too strongly after sipping. I will say that the can design is absolutely gorgeous, which admittedly enhances the drinking experience by a lot for me. If I had the choice, I probably wouldn't opt for a can of Recess over any of the other low-sugar drinks mentioned above.

Amazon

6. Spindrift

Ranking last on my list is Spindrift. Now, don't get me wrong, I think Spindrift is still good, but it's definitely not my first option given the mass amount of other sparkling water brands that exist. Their flavors have no added sugar, but do range from having 0-3 grams depending on the specific can you're sipping on, likely due to the natural flavoring. I think these taste best when they're super crispy and cold, and they even work well as an easy cocktail mixer!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more healthy drink + recipe ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

These 24 Green Cocktails For St. Patrick's Day Are Full Of Luck

St. Patrick's Day means green is queen. We're talking green recipes, green outfits, and green cocktails! Now that you've got the recipe for pot of gold cupcakes, it's finally time to find the perfect green drink for St. Patty's day to pair them with! With our list of green cocktails, you'll be full of luck come March 17.

Find every spirited cocktail worth celebrating here – from Grasshoppers to green margaritas, we're here to make sure your St. Patty's is nothing but fun!

What is the most popular drink for St. Patrick's Day?

Denys Gromov / PEXELS

Green beer, Guinness, and green cocktails made with creme de menthe and Irish cream are the most popular drinks to have for St. Patrick's Day. You'll see celebrations chock full of themed foods and drinks, especially green in color. We love a good cocktail, so enjoying a green spirit like the ones listed is our favorite way to party!

What do Irish people drink on St. Patrick's Day?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Among a tall pint of Guinness, Irish people typically indulge in local ciders, Dublin Mules, Irish whiskey shots, and Black and Blacks for St. Patrick's Day.

What is the most popular cocktail in Ireland?

Arina Krasnikova / PEXELS

For many, the Irish Maid is one of the best cocktails in Ireland. It's made with quality whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Other popular cocktails include the Irish Espresso Martini, Irish Eyes, and Irish Sour.

Green Beer

We had to go there. This is one of the easiest and most quintessential American-Irish drinks. (via Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gin Slushie

Brit + Co

This green slushy makes our hearts soar since you only need 6 ingredients for the recipe. This is one of the best St. Patrick's Day cocktails you can make if it's hot outside on the holiday. (via Brit + Co)

St. Patrick's Day Green Shots

Sarah Anderson

Okay – this green cocktail is actually a dessert shot, but we had to include its yumminess. You'll build a chocolatey Oreo base on the bottom before layering on the boozy pudding. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Pickleback

Kurt Andre

Green pickle juice and bacon bourbon in a salt-rimmed glass is all you need for a green shot to remember. (via Brit + Co)

Mezcalima Lime Cocktail

Brittany Griffin

This citrusy margarita is a great addition to your St. Patrick's menu. It's got ginger beer, so it's a good option for anyone who isn't a fan of thick, sweet drinks. If you desire a sweet sip, whip up some simple syrup to mix in. Mix in some addition green food dye to up the color! (via Brit + Co)

Midori Lemonata

Brit + Co

Don’t let the green color of this drink scare you. This St. Patty's cocktail tastes just like melon-flavored lemonade – with a boozy kick, of course. (via Brit + Co)

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

Adding a little bit of Irish Whiskey into your drink makes it St. Patty's Day-appropriate, like this version of a whiskey sour from our collection of St. Patrick's Day recipes! (via Pizzazzerie for Brit + Co)

Avo-Keto Margarita

Don Julio

Just because you may be going low-cal doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to St. Patrick's party with the rest of 'em. This keto-friendly margarita earns its green hue from fresh avocado. (via Don Julio for Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gimlets

Brit + Co

Forget normal glasses — you can drink right out of a cucumber with these green cocktails! All you need to scoop out the inside is a melon baller, then you're all set to fill to the brim with gin and Sparkling Ice. (via Brit + Co)

Matcha Gin Sour

Takes Two Eggs

Prep this appealing matcha-based cocktail for all the green on the 17th. Think of this creative recipe as your #1 St. Patty's sip! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Key Lime Margarita

Barley & Sage

Take this classic margarita to the St. Patty's hang, and your buds will be hooked. This is a great option for when you want to serve green drinks that don't have Guinness or Irish cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Luck Of The Irish Sunrise

First Light Whiskey

Shake 2 oz First Light Whiskey, ½ oz blue curacao, ½ oz orange juice, and ¼ oz simple syrup with ice, then garnish your festive green sip with cherries and a brown sugar rim. This delicious drink will definitely keep the party going. (via First Light Whiskey)

Grasshopper Cocktail

Culinary Hill

Whip up this dessert-y green drink using just three ingredients: green creme de menthe, creme de cacao, and cream! Finish your St. Paddy's cocktail off with delicious chocolate shavings! (via Culinary Hill)

Bali Squeezed Mocktail

Chef Bai

Just because you're not drinking drinking, doesn't mean you can't sip on something delicious for the holiday. Get in the St. Patrick's spirit with this green cocktail that's full of nutrients from superfood supplements and coconut water. (via Chef Bai)

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

Heather Christo

What's better than a bloody Mary? A themed bloody Mary with bacon, of course! Sip this green drink for an unforgettable St. Patrick's. (via Heather Christo)

Frozen Mint Lemonade

The View From Great Island

A slushy, minty limonana is only St. Patty's-approved when rum is added to the blender. All your pals will love these green cocktails. (via The View From Great Island)

Classic Mint Julep

Salt & Lavender

Throw back a sip so refreshing, you'll immediately want a second one. And that's totally accepted to amp up the St. Patrick's party! (via Salt & Lavender)

Taffer's Grasshopper

Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon

To make this creamy green cocktail, shake 1.5 oz Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, 1 oz crème de menthe, 1 oz crème de cacao, and 1 oz crème over ice. Strain into your go-to martini glass, then top everything off with a generous amount of shaved dark chocolate. Yummm! (viaTaffer's Browned Butter Bourbon)

Cucumber Gimlet

Leite's Culinaria

Add a splash of cucumber juice to a gin classic, and your tastebuds will be in luck for St. Patrick's Day. (via Leite's Culinaria)

Vodka Limeade Punch

Crazy For Crust

Mix up a pitcher of this easy green punch for a breezy bartending duty. Tons of green lime and fresh mint leaves means there's no pinching to be had! (via Crazy For Crust)

Moscow Mule Push Pops

What Should I Make For

The warm weather will be in full spring mode come St. Patty's, meaning it's time to bust out your freezer pop molds for a cooling boozy treat! These sweet popsicles draw inspo from the classic Moscow mule. (via What Should I Make For)

Sweet Liberty's Grasshopper 2.0

Sweet Liberty

This unique green cocktail reimagines the ever-popular St. Patty's Grasshopper in the tastiest way. To make it, shake .75 oz Tempus Fugit crème de menthe (colored with green dye), .75 oz Giffard crème de cacao, .5 oz Del Maguey ‘Vida’ mezcal, .25 oz Branca Menta, 1 barspoon of absinthe, and 1.25 oz heavy cream over ice. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice and grate some dark chocolate over top! (via Sweet Liberty in Miami Beach, FL)

Mint Matcha Latte

Chef Bai

This matcha drink is luckily super healthy for you! Enjoy this green drink recipe on its own, or spike it with Irish cream for a nice buzz. (via Chef Bai)

Cucumber Margarita

The Endless Meal

Tequila, triple sec and lime join cucumber to form a refreshing green cocktail. Everyone at the party will adore this fun refreshment! (via The Endless Meal)

Tweet us your favorite green cocktails @BritandCo and follow us on Pinterest for more!

This article has been updated.

cocktailscocktail recipesfooddrinksst patricks day

8 Best Sitcoms We Could Watch Again & Again

Sitcoms have been a TV staple for decades — and nowadays, everyone has their own comfort series. It's the show you can always rely on (and rewatch) to make you laugh or simply give you an escape from the stresses of day-to-day life.

So, while sitcoms may have quirky, offbeat humor or sometimes predictable character tropes, we continue returning to them time and time again. And if you haven't yet found your go-to TV show, there are plenty out to fit every taste.

Here are some of the best sitcoms ever that have rightfully earned their place in TV history.

Scroll to see the best sitcoms of all time!

Castle Rock Entertainment

1. Seinfeld

Seinfeld broke new ground in the world of sitcoms by introducing a more cynical, no-nonsense approach to its characters (and the situations they found themselves in).

The series famously followed the "no hugging, no learning" rule, meaning Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer never really grew or learned from their mistakes. This made their misadventures even more absurd and entertaining.

At its core, Seinfeld wasn't about grand life lessons or heartfelt moments, like other cornier sitcoms. Rather, it focused on the often overlooked details of everyday life and reflected the darker side of human nature in a hilarious way.

NBC Universal Television

2. The Office

The U.S. version of The Office became a true cultural phenomenon during its run and continues to be a pop culture staple today.

On the surface, it's a simple show about the daily lives of quirky employees at a paper company known as Dunder Mifflin. However, its true charm lies in the awkward and comedic dynamics between the characters.

It's one of the most beloved comfort sitcoms out there, with an underlying romance plot between Jim and Pam that had viewers hooked for seasons.

Paramount

3. Everybody Hates Chris

One sitcom that's arguably underrated is Everybody Hates Chris, which blended unique humor with social commentary. Created by Chris Rock, the show offers a semi-autobiographical look at his life growing up in New York during the 1980s.

It mixes his sharp comedic style with reflections on race, inequality, and social issues of the time. Tyler James Williams delivers an outstanding performance as young Chris Rock, while Terry Crews and Tichinia Arnold shine as his parents.

Fox

4. New Girl

New Girl offers a classic sitcom setup featuring a group of roommates who navigate work, romance, and the ups and downs of living together. Jess, played by Zooey Deschanel, is the only female roommate, which stirs up awkward scenarios, funny hijinks, and even drama at some points.

She's joined by Nick, Schmidt, and Winston, played by Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, and Lamorne Morris, respectively. Each male character's unique personality and quirks really round out the show and make for dynamic on-screen energy that's endlessly entertaining.

NBC

5. Modern Family

Modern Family made its mark as one of the standout sitcoms of the 2010s. It ran for 11 successful seasons and captured what it means to be a family in the modern day.

On paper, it might just seem like another family-centered show, but the series' mockumentary format sets it apart. It also shines a light on the inner workings and common challenges of blended families, which is brought to life by a standout cast, including Ed O'Neill, Sofía Vergara, Julie Bowen, Ty Burrell, Sarah Hyland, Eric Stonestreet, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Ariel Winter, Nolan Gould, and Rico Rodriguez.

CBC

6. Schitt's Creek

This sitcom follows a wealthy family who suddenly loses everything and is forced to move to a small, rundown town they once bought as a joke. Schitt's Creek begins as a comedic tale of survival among the entitled, but it quickly evolves into a heartwarming story of family bonding and personal growth.

The once-snobbish characters, played by the father-son duo Eugene Levy and Dan Levy, as well as Catherine O'Hara and Annie Murphy, figure out how to adapt to a humbler lifestyle and become more relatable, likable, and genuinely better people over time.

HBO

7. Curb Your Enthusiasm

From the creator of Seinfeld himself came Curb Your Enthusiasm, a masterclass in Larry David's distinctive brand of dark, edgy, and sometimes uncomfortable humor. He plays a fictionalized version of himself as he navigates a world that seems to despise him.

Larry is constantly getting into trouble in even the most simple scenarios, purely because he's prone to being socially inappropriate. But despite his often misguided behavior, there are some moments where he actually has a valid point or commentary about social expectations in day-to-day life, making him oddly relatable to the general viewer.

The premise of Curb Your Enthusiasm is simple, but Larry consistently found new angles to keep the humor fresh. This allowed the show to thrive for 12 whole seasons.

Fox

8. Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Last but not least is Brooklyn Nine-Nine, a sitcom that took workplace comedy to another, over-the-top level. It's set in a police precinct but never leans too far into the tense or dramatic moments.

Instead, it opts for broad, quirky humor and lovable characters played by stars such as Andy Samberg, Stephanie Beatriz, Melissa Fumero, Chelsea Peretti, Terry Crews, Joe Lo Truglio, and Andre Braugher.

Looking for more entertainment news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

tv showsentertainmenttv

7 "Outdated" Coffee Orders Baristas Are Probably Judging You For

Just like fashion trends, coffee orders can quickly go out of style, and some drinks give serious early-2000s energy (ahem, Señorita Awesome’s PSL order). New flavors and innovations are constantly being made in the coffee world, rendering a lot of once-popular sips obsolete.

From overly-sweet concoctions to blends that have lost their edge, these 7 “outdated” coffee orders are practically begging for an upgrade. If your go-to drink feels stuck in the past, it might be time to shake things up and sip on something a little more current. (Luckily, there are some exciting new menu drops coming from our faves at Dunkin’ andStarbucks!)

Scroll on to discover the top 7 “outdated” coffee orders that are no longer worth the hype – and the ones your barista is probably judging you for.

Olena Bohovyk / PEXELS

1. Frappe (Frappuccino)

While ice-blended coffees are still enjoyed in some places, the classic frappe has been overshadowed by a slew of other options like cold brew, iced coffee, and shaken espresso. Plus, these drinks can get quite complicated with chains offering endless customizations and add-ons.

Esra Afşar / PEXELS

2. Mocha

This combination of chocolate and espresso with steamed milk was pretty trendy for a while, but it’s definitely evolved with more diverse flavors and types of chocolate (dark choc for the win). Plus, mochas can get extremely sweet extremely fast, erasing the taste of coffee altogether.

Emilie Faraut / Dupe

3. White Chocolate Mocha

Mochas made with white chocolate were the drink to order… in the 2010s. Now, they may be seen as overly-sweet compared to more nuanced coffee flavors – especially if you ask a seasoned barista.

Esra Korkmaz / PEXELS

4. Caramel Macchiato

This highly-Instagrammable coffee bev used to be a go-to for many people, but over the years, it’s been associated more and more with tween and teen sippers – likely due to its sweetness and (very) high sugar content. If you want your coffee order to seem more age-appropriate and sophisticated, shift towards simpler options like iced coffee or cold brew!

Itschansy / PEXELS

5. Instant Coffee

While instant coffee is convenient, many baristas and coffee enthusiasts will turn their noses up at the mention of it. Oftentimes, you can get a way better flavor (and overall drinking experience!) with freshly-brewed or specialty coffees. Just save the instant coffee for your next camping trip!

Kelley McQuillen / Dupe

6. Espresso Con Panna

You don't see this one too much anymore. Espresso con panna – AKA a shot of espresso topped with whipped cream – was once considered a luxurious treat. With many people preferring sweeter coffees, it’s just less common now.

Mathias Reding / PEXELS

7. Irish Coffee

While still a total classic coffee order in bars (and especially around St. Patrick’s Day), Irish coffee is just not something you hear ordered as frequently in cafes anymore.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more food news!

dunkinstarbuckscoffeedrinksfood

Shoppers Are Replacing Their Super Expensive Moisturizers With This $18 Firming "Face Lift" Cream

When it comes to skincare, many people believe that products with higher price tags will give them better results. But what if you could achieve the same firming, lifting, and hydrating effects of luxury creams without spending a small fortune?

Instead of dropping upwards of $100 (or even more) on high-end moisturizers, shoppers are turning to a budget-friendly alternative. Known as LilyAna Naturals Face Lift Cream, it's priced at just $18 and is said to give you firmer and fuller-looking skin. Here's what you should know about it!

Scroll to learn more about this inexpensive anti-aging cream that's basically a face lift!

The company launched in a small Mississippi town in 2014 and is owned by siblings Retta Abraham and Menna Samaha. It's since become "one of the largest, cleanest Amazon-born skincare brands."

"LilyAna Naturals is proud to be a brand that operates from a place of goodness and love, centered on family and community, right down to the brand name – LilyAna. Lily and Ana Belle are the beautiful daughters of the husband and wife, who share the role of the Directors of Manufacturing Operations," the brand's website reads.

Some of their best sellers include anti-aging eye cream, retinol cream, charcoal face scrub, dark spot corrector, and multiple regimen kits. However, the latest product to take the internet by storm is the LilyAna Naturals Sea Moss Face Lift Cream.

Amazon

Offered in 1-ounce or 1.7-ounce bottles, the formula is "enriched" with Bakuchiol, Sea Moss, Hyaluronic Acid, and Peptide Complex. Bakuchiol is a gentle and plant-based retinol alternative known for its ability to quicken skin turnover, enhance firmness, and even out skin tone. Meanwhile, Hyaluronic Acid and Sea Moss provide deep hydration for plumper-looking skin. Finally, the peptide complex helps boost skin elasticity for a smoother, more youthful appearance.

"Our face-lifting cream is made with natural and plant-derived ingredients, free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and sulfates. Experience visibly smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin with regular use," says the product's description.

If that sounds too good to be true, all you have to do is take a look at what shoppers are saying about the Sea Moss Face Lift Cream. It has over 13,000 reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.3 stars.

"I have tried a lot of moisturizers, from drug store brands to high-end, expensive anti-aging moisturizers, and for me, LilyAna is the only brand that delivers results, doesn't irritate my skin, and doesn't totally empty my wallet. I'm so happy to have found this brand! The face cream glides on smoothly and absorbs within a few short minutes. It is not greasy at all and my makeup sits on top of it beautifully. No strong odors or anything else negative I can think of!" one reviewer shared.

"High-end product with a drug store price tag! Customer service is bar none. This will forever be my go-to skincare company," seconded another.

"I searched for an inexpensive alternative to the high-end creams I was using. This was it, and I'm 100% hooked! I actually like it better than my expensive stuff," agreed a third.

Now, if you're sold on the LilyAna Naturals Sea Moss Face Lift Cream and plan to get your hands on it, it's recommended that you apply it evenly across your face, neck, and décolletage twice a day after cleanser and serum.

Looking for more beauty advice? Sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

beautybeauty productseditecomskincare productsskincare

8 "Moving" Books for Mothers and Daughters to Read Together

Mothers and daughters have a truly special bond that's built on love, understanding, and shared experiences from a young age. So, as your little girl grows into a woman, books offer the power to strengthen that connection by sharing books and stories that reflect the joys, challenges, and complexities of mother-daughter relationships.

Whether you're searching for a timeless classic or a contemporary tale, here are some moving books that mothers and daughters can enjoy together.

Scroll to see all the moving books mothers & daughters should totally read together this year!

Amazon

1. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery is an enduring tale of resilience, imagination, and the power of found family.

When an orphan named Anne Shirley arrives at Green Gables, she's not what siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert expected, but she's exactly what they needed. Her boundless curiosity and mischievous ways initially clash with Marilla's stern demeanor, but over time, the two form a deep mother-daughter-like bond that goes beyond blood ties.

2. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

Ann Patchett's Tom Lake is a literary fiction novel that explores memory, love, and the evolving relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in 2020 at a Michigan cherry orchard, the story follows Lara, who captivates her three daughters, Emily, Maisie, and Nell, as she shares the tale of her youthful romance with famous actor Peter Duke.

As past and present intertwine, Tom Lake reflects on the choices we make, the lives we leave behind, and the connections that shape us. It's a poignant read that will spark conversations between mothers and daughters.

Amazon

3. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott has captivated readers ever since it was published in 1868, depicting themes of family, love, personal growth, and independence.

The story of the four March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, continues to resonate with readers of all ages, as each sister represents different aspects of womanhood and the complex choices that shape their lives. At the heart of the novel is their beloved mother, Marmie, whose wisdom and strength guide her daughters.

Amazon

4. One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

This women's fiction book by Rebecca Serle takes readers on a journey that blends grief with self-discovery. After Katy's mother, Carol, dies just before their planned trip to Positano, Italy, Katy decides to go alone in an effort to escape the turmoil in her life.

Once there, she unexpectedly meets a young version of her mother and gets to experience Carol's past in a way she never could before. As Katy unravels the layers of her mother's hidden history, One Italian Summer explores the meaningful ways our loved ones shape us.

Amazon

5. Sandwichby Catherine Newman

Catherine Newman's Sandwich is a witty and insightful exploration of the challenges that come with middle age. The protagonist, Rocky, finds herself spending the summer in a "sandwiched" experience. More specifically, she's caught between her aging parents and her young adult kids at a family Cape Cod cottage.

She navigates the emotional and physical changes of menopause, reflects on her life milestones, and grapples with her identity as a mother, daughter, and woman. Sandwich is packed with humor and sure to serve as a perfect conversation starter for mothers and daughters.

Amazon

6. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty is a captivating coming-of-age story that deals with the complexities of love, growing up, and changing relationships between moms and daughters. Published in 2009, it centers on Belly, a teenage girl who experiences her first love alongside shifting family dynamics during a summer at a beach house.

While this book is considered a contemporary YA novel, it captures the emotional depth of both teenage and adult experiences, tackling themes of love, loss, and identity that resonate with readers of all ages.

Amazon

7. The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan

J. Courtney Sullivan's The Cliffs is a gripping gothic mystery that intertwines a haunted house with the complex and often tumultuous relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in a purple Victorian home on a cliffside in Maine, the novel follows Jane, an archivist whose obsession with the house's dark past leads her to uncover unsettling truths about the past and the women who lived there.

The Cliffs examines expectations, loss, and the ways in which our perceptions of motherhood shape who we become.

Amazon

8. Crying in H Martby Michelle Zauner

Finally, Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner, the lead singer of Japanese Breakfast, is a moving memoir that dissects identity, grief, and mother-daughter bonds.

Michelle reflects on her experience growing up half-Korean in Oregon. She often felt disconnected from her heritage and struggled under her mother's expectations. Still, the pair came together over the food Michelle's mother prepared.

Later, as she returns home at 25 years old to care for her mother during her cancer battle, food becomes their final bridge. Crying in H Mart is raw and sure to take mothers and daughters on an emotional journey.

Looking for more reading recs? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

book recommendationseditecomentertainmentreadingbooks