As the calendar flipped its way to October, I prepared myself for the golden changing of leaves and the chilly weather that calls for cozy sweaters. Unfortunately, the persistence of Texas’s melting heat has dampened the excitement of autumnal festivities. In an attempt to persuade the seasons into changing, I’ve started wearing my favorite sweaters, surrounding myself with a variety of pumpkin-related baked goods, and reading books that remind me of my most anticipated season. For those of you wishing to escape with me into our ache for autumn, here is my list of nine books that perfectly fit the occasion.
1. Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Starting off, Wuthering Heights is the timeless, tragic love story of Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. The dreary, gothic scene of Thrushcross Grange provides a perfect atmosphere for us readers to imagine ourselves alongside the characters in the chilly, foggy moors.
2. All Our Hidden Gifts by Caroline O’Donoghue
If you’re looking for a more contemporary read, All Our Hidden Gifts is a great choice. A perfect read as we prepare ourselves for Halloween, this spooky mystery follows 16-year-old Maeve as she struggles with friendship, romance, and witchy magic. Additionally, the story adds some much-needed queer representation into the literary conversation.
3. the road by cormac McCarthy
A personal favorite of mine, I know that I can always count on The Road to give me hints of the same feelings that come with fall. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the narrative follows a man and his son as they forge their way across a barren wasteland. The bleak environment provides a gray atmosphere that always reminds me of cold weather.
4. six of crows by leigh Bardugo
This story of a fantastical heist is another excellent addition to the list of autumnal reads. Set in a world apart from our own, a group of six teenage thieves forms an unlikely alliance as they brave the dangers of a prison break. The harrowing plot coupled with the icy setting makes this a perfect YA read for fall.
5. Her body and other parties by Carmen Maria Machado
For those not quite as interested in lengthy novels, Her Body and Other Parties is a great choice. This short story collection is comprised of a variety of genres, including horror, science fiction, and fantasy with subjects ranging from girls with bells for eyes to a secluded house in the woods. The queer and feminist tellings of haunting stories create a chilling mood perfect for the season.
6. The 7 1/2 deaths of Evelyn hardcastle by stuart turton
The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a thrilling murder mystery perfect for those looking for suspense. A day lived on repeat, plus an intricate puzzle is a great way to put yourself into the spooky, mysterious feeling of Halloween.
7. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley’s revolutionary science fiction novel Frankenstein has been a hallmark of fall reads for decades. This Gothic story of a scientist and his creation is a great way for readers to get in the mood for Halloween and fall overall. The mad scientist trope will always prevail when it’s time to pick a spooky theme for a story.
8. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
A Latinx and queer YA ghost story, Cemetery Boys is a perfect fit for someone looking for a modern twist on witchcraft. This novel sheds light on Latinx culture and queer acceptance while incorporating witchy concepts that are perfect for October.
9. twilight by Stephanie Meyer
Finally, a favorite that I’m sure most of us are familiar with. This story of mythical romance gives vibes reminiscent of fall no matter the season. When I think of fall, I think of cold weather, trees, and Bon Iver, all things which are related to Twilight.