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Reading into Spring: What to Read This Spring

Chloe Howard Student Contributor, Bucknell University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Bucknell chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

As the trees start to grow back their leaves and the air warms, spring ushers in a sense of renewal, making it the perfect time to embrace the joy of reading. After the long, quiet months of winter, the season invites us to step outside, soak in the sunshine, and immerse ourselves in stories that reflect the vibrancy and fresh energy that spring brings. Whether you’re looking to spark creativity, explore new worlds, or simply unwind with a captivating tale, spring offers the ideal backdrop for a diverse range of books that mirror the season’s spirit of growth and transformation. Whether you’re curling up with a good book on a rainy afternoon or enjoying an outdoor read in the warmth of the sun, there’s something for everyone this season to help you make the most of spring’s promise of new beginnings.

Educated by Tara Westover

Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir that recounts Westover’s journey from growing up in a strict, isolated household where her education was extremely limited in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from the University of Cambridge. The story is one of self-discovery, resilience, and breaking free from the constraints of her upbringing. Westover’s writing style reads like a story, allowing readers to get so lost in the narrative that they find themselves forgetting this is a true story. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and the belief that it’s never too late to begin anew.

Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez is another perfect choice for spring, as this charming romance novel weaves together themes of personal growth, second chances, and the unexpected nature of love. The story follows two characters, Briana and Jacob, who find themselves navigating the complexities of their careers and personal lives while also discovering how their paths unexpectedly cross in ways they hadn’t anticipated. Jimenez’s writing, especially her romance novels, perfectly blends the heartwarming rom-com style with touching moments of depth and emotional growth.

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett offers a beautifully crafted story that captures the essence of memory, love, and the passage of time. Set during a summer at a family-run cherry farm in northern Michigan, the novel explores the life of Lara, a mother who reflects on her past while telling her three daughters the story of her youth. Through this narrative, Patchett seamlessly weaves themes of nostalgia, personal growth, and the complexities of love, making it a perfect companion for the season of renewal. The lush, pastoral setting of the cherry farm adds a layer of richness to the novel which perfectly pairs with the blossoming of flowers and trees happening right now.

First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison

First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison is another romance novel that brings all the warmth, charm, and humor perfect for a spring read. Inspired by the movie Sleepless in Seattle, the novel follows Aiden, the host of Baltimore’s romance hotline who has fallen out of love with love, and Lucie, who, by fault of her daughter, ends up broadcasting her love life, or lack thereof, for all of Baltimore to hear. What begins as a seemingly awkward and unintentional broadcast soon develops into a heartwarming love story. The novel’s charm lies in the way it builds its romance as the two protagonists embark on a journey of second-chances and rediscovery. 

As the season of spring unfolds, there’s no better opportunity to dive into new stories. Whether you’re captivated by the journey of self-empowerment, the slow-burn of romance, or the quiet beauty of nostalgia, these books invite readers to embrace the spirit of spring. As you read, let the season’s energy and warm weather inspire your own journey, sparking new ideas, connections, and a deeper appreciation for the world around you.

Chloe Howard

Bucknell '27

Chloe is a sophomore at Bucknell University majoring in English - Literary Studies and minoring in Dance and Women & Gender Studies, intending to pursue a career in the publishing industry. In her free time, Chloe loves reading, traveling, and spending time with her friends.