By: Sandy Fairclough
As we get deeper into October, the air is getting chillier and the leaves are getting crunchier. Those of us who love cozy season are getting ready to spend time in our pj’s with big fluffy blankets, some apple cinnamon scented candles and hopefully a great book. Fall wouldn’t be the same without the sound of turning pages and the smell of ink, although I know sometimes it can be hard to find the right book for your Autumn mood. Luckily, I’ve compiled seven suggestions that have made my Autumn all the more cozy in years past and that are sure to complement any crisp Fall day.
If you’re looking for a spooky Halloween thriller…
Go old school with Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris. Believe it or not, there was a novel before the critically acclaimed movie came out! And Clarice Starling is even more courageous in the book! There’s something about reading a scary story that’s almost creepier than watching a horror movie, so be sure to check out this spooky classic.
For a fantastic escape
Disappear into Sarah J. Maas’s world of Throne of Glass. Following the storyline of mysterious assassin Celaena Sardothien, Maas weaves a magical fantasy world of fairies, knights, evil kings and gorgeous princes. This book is chock full of girl power and sure to whisk you right out of midterm season and into fairyland.
For a cozy love story
Give Stephanie Perkin’s novel, Anna and the French Kiss a try. On the fairytale streets of Paris, high school senior Anna’s misadventures are hilarious as she navigates the city she just moved to. Quirky, funny and incredibly sweet, this romance will certainly get you ready for cuffing season.
For a wholesome female protagonist
Try I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith. The novel spans three journals that the main character, Cassandra fills as she lives with her family in 1930s rural England. Cassandra’s story is a relatable coming of age story that is sure to not just warm your heart but also inspire you. Reading with a cup of hot tea will definitely make the experience.
For a fireside classic
Check out Jane Austen’s masterpiece Pride & Prejudice. If there’s one thing I love about books, it’s reading them aloud – to myself or friends and family – or hearing them read aloud by someone else. The tale of Elizabeth and her sisters begs to be spoken, and if you’re a book sister and haven’t delved into the world of Mr. Darcy yet, you really need to.
For some heartfelt poetry
I’ve been loving Stuff I’ve Been Feeling Lately by Alicia Cook. Following Rupi Kaur’s Milk & Honey, short, sweet lyrical poetry is the trend of late and with the stampede of poetry books that have come out in the past couple of years, this is one of the most unique ones I’ve seen. Each poem is accompanied by a song that the writer feels goes with it, which is great if you love music, and she also does some experimentation with blackout poetry on her own work in the second half of the book. Definitely will get you in your feels this Autumn.
For a daring adventure
I recommend Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. Reading this made me grateful to be all snuggled up in my own home, but it also inspired me to get out and have my own adventures. The story is also just incredibly interesting (it’s based on real life events!) It’s quite sad though (aren’t all the best stories?) so make sure you have those tissues ready.