Today, dreams come true. Today, I get to talk about books and participate in what I hope will be an extensive group chat with all of you about your favorite books. I am thrilled. Can you tell??
If you’ll indulge me for a sec, I’ll tell you why I geek out about talking about books and hearing people talk about books. First of all, I am an introvert who loves connecting with people. I always, and I mean always, want to get deep. We just met? Great, what are your deepest fears and what was your father like growing up? This is abrasive and weird, I know, so growing up I was in my head a lot. I was constantly wondering what people were thinking and feeling. WHAT A WEIRDO. So, reading books was like getting into someone else’s head. It’s actually the only thing akin to “walking a mile I someone else’s shoes”. When you read, you find out what people (albeit characters) actually experience, feel, and think. Reading is how you learn empathy! If everyone read a personal story about someone they think they hate, all the world’s problems would be solved. True story.
All that’s to say, books are the sh*t. Even the ones we are embarrassed to love, like the Twilight series and yes, even 50 Shades of Grey. I studied English Lit in college (and no surprise here, LOVED IT) so of course I was once a snob that would only recommend Bukowski, Hemmingway, or Raymond Carver (notice that’s all men. ugh). But that’s boring. I want to know what books you read until your eyes felt like they might bleed. Especially now when we have been forced to slow down and stay home, these are the books we need right now.
Luckily EHD agrees with me so our mission for this post was to bring you not only our all-time favorite books but also the guilty pleasure we simply could not put down. This is no shame list where no book or genre is excluded. Never that! All books should be celebrated. These are the books we ripped through feverishly as if they were the oxygen that kept us alive. The official EHD All-Time Favorite (And Most Addicting) Book List is here, my friends, so prepare your Kindles and bookshelves. Here we go.
Emily’s List:
From Emily: My hope for the future is to be able to find more binge-worthy books that read like movies, but of which don’t make me feel like I wasted my college education. Like Ryann, I too was a lit major and used to read David Foster Wallace for fun, but lately devour 50 Shades or anything with a vampire because they are just so easy. But then I remember that they exist – good books that are actually very entertaining. I’m sure I’ve forgotten so many, but these were the ones that popped in my head:
Geek Love by Katherine Dunn: When this came out it blew my mind and yes it was very hard to put down. It’s about a very unconventional family and I forget almost EVERYTHING about this book except how much I loved it. I can’t wait to re-read.
The Secret History by Donna Tart: I’m so happy for all of you who haven’t read this yet. A mystery, set at a boarding school. You can’t put it down. I’m excited to read Donna’s other book that Ryann recommended.
Prep by Curtis Sittenfield: Curtis Sittenfield is one of my favorite writers of all time. Prep is a coming of age story, involving teenage love but written so beautifully and yet relatable. I’m so excited to re-read this book. American Wife, another book of hers, is a fictional bio-pic based on George and Laura Bush. Sounds boring and political but it’s a real American story, about young love, marriage, and a boy raised in a political family. (Do you remember when he was our president and we had so much to complain about?????? hahahahahahahaha).
Manhattan Nocturnes by Collin Harrison: Brian nor I could put this down. A thrilling mystery that moves so fast, set in a city that I think about far too often (we love you, New York).
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn: I devoured all of Gillian Flynn’s books the same week, they are all that good and that hard to put down. It’s the same vibe as ‘The Girl on a Train’ which you should also read.
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides: If you can get past Jeffrey Eugenides’ pretentiousness, pick up this book. It did win awards, but I promise it’s hard to put down.
Under the Banner of Heaven and Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer: Jon Krakauer writes non-fiction about outdoor sports, so I don’t know how I stumbled upon this but it blew my mind. It’s a true-crime story about extreme fundamentalists Mormons – you won’t be able to stop talking about it.
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: Brian and I read this series at the same time and we were both so excited to go to bed at night. You’ve likely seen the movies, but I couldn’t help putting them on the list because it was the first YA book I ever read (and up until today I almost exclusively read YA or self-help – BUT NOT AFTER THIS POST. I’m so excited).
Brian’s List:
Emily here again, Brian is homeschooling. He shouted these out fast and with confidence. I can say almost all of these are fast-paced mysteries that have male protagonists that he related to (except Geek Love). I’ve read most of these, too and LOVED them (especially Devil In the White City – that book was amazing)
Geek Love by Katherine Dunn, Motherless Brooklyn by Jonathan Lethem, Fortress of Solitude by Jonathan Lethem, The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay and Beat the Reaper by Michael Chabon (Brian read in two days), Devil in The White City by Josh Basel & 11/22/63 by Stephen King.
Ryann’s List:
The Secret History by Donna Tart: If we are talking all-time favorite, this is mine. I first read it years ago and whenever I can’t find a good book to read, I read it over again. The story is so completely intoxicating and it is hard to describe why, which might be why I love it so much. And if you’ve already read this, might I suggest The Little Friend also by Donna Tart. It’s dark and haunting and so, so good.
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros: Technically a children’s book but it’s written beautifully and has some really dark yet beautiful undertones about growing up. I was introduced to it in college, and when I read it was in awe. I didn’t realize someone could write a book so perfectly tailored to children AND adults. It’s essentially poetic prose for all ages.
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling: Is naming a series cheating? I don’t care. I, like every other wonderful person in the world, tore through the Harry Potter Series. You know it by now, but maybe this is your reminder to download it to your Kindle right now and re-read it or get your kids on the bandwagon. It’s a more timely and needed series now than ever, as reading it is the best way to escape reality in my opinion. Oh! And if you are wondering, which I am sure you are, my favorite book from the series is Prisoner of Azkaban. Obviously.
Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut: Did I ever think I would love a book about war? No, not really. But at least now I have a war book recommendation for boys who only read books about war. Look at me! I am a cool girl. But really, Kurt Vonnegut is a fantastic writer and his ability to keep me reading is impressive. I am actually re-reading as we speak. Anyone want to hop on the train with me??
Here on Earth by Alice Hoffman: I haven’t read this in years but I remember in high school reading it about 5 times. It’s deeply romantic and it’s how I learned what real adult relationships were like: often messy, immature, passionate & dispassionate, and not unlike young teen love. The fact that adults don’t really grow up truly fascinated me.
And because I can’t! stop! talking! about! books! here are a few honorable mentions: Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion, Normal People by Sally Rooney, Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney, Women, Race, and Class by Angela Davis, Prep by Curtis Sittenfield, Chasing the Scream by Johann Hari, The Polish Boxer by Edward Halfon, One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey, Nox by Anne Carson, The Host by Stephanie Meyer, & The Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer (yeah, I said it).
Veronica’s List:
Love Does by Bob Goff: Okay, yes, this is a book written by a Christian author, but it is truly so much more than that. Reading this book opened my eyes to so many different ways to love and be loved, and just the overall message of spreading goodness and joy. It is genuinely such a good take on how to be better as a society. It definitely made me cry muuultiple times (guys, that’s a lot coming from me because it takes a real moving story to make this gal shed any tears).
Looking for Alaska by John Green: This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time!! A good ole’ boy-meets-mysterious-girl-and-wants-to-know-more tale and who doesn’t love a good teen romance with a little mystery?
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling : First of all, if you haven’t read this book already, what are you doing ????? Secondly, I was very much not into this movie despite Sirius being my favorite character (I read/listened to all of the books much later in life), and now it is my favorite of the series. The book gives so much background and rewatching the movie after? Simply beautiful.
Buckle your seatbelts, this one is a three-part, y’all! To All The Boys series by Jenny Han. These books had me on a freaking emotional ROLLERCOASTER, guys. I am a huge fan of teen romances, so they already had me hooked from the get-go. But seriously, you don’t know what you’re getting into with these babies. Also, where do I get my own Peter Kavinsky??
Okay guys, this one is very special to me. Although it’s not a book, it is a script written by my brother that has been one of my favorite things he’s written so far, and I would love for others to experience it too. THE LYING GAME is an international murder mystery/psych thriller, divided between three perspectives: A suspected assassin, his next victim… and a pair of special agents doing whatever it takes to stop him.
Julie’s List:
From Julie: Over the years I have been an off and on avid reader. I’ll go through 3 books in a month and then won’t pick another one up for 4 months. Although I have about 30+ books in my possession that are on my list to finally read I keep coming back to these. The first 6 I will read once a year or every other year cause they are that good and more importantly I take away new lessons from them depending on where I am in my life. They are like old friends at this point and I want you to meet them.
Many Lives Many Masters by Brian L Weiss, M.D.: I think this is the second or third time that I am mentioning this book to you all and if you haven’t already purchased a copy…what are you waiting for? Seriously, this book literally changed my life and helped me dramatically with my anxiety around death. It’s all about past life regression, a technique used in therapy that uses hypnosis to recover what he believes to be memories directly linked to past lives of his patient named Catherine. It sounds a little ‘out there’ but I found it’s explanation of what happens in the after wildly comforting.
The Glass Castle & Half Broke Horses by Jeanette Walls: Jeannette Walls is hands down one of my favorite authors. Her first book, Glass Castle, is a memoir about her unorthodox upbringing and if you’d rather skip the book then that’s fine with me cause Brie Larson was amazing in the movie. Half Broke Horses (her second book) is a “true-life novel” which is essentially a prequel to Jeanette’s own story. She writes about her grandmother’s life in the harsh southwest desert but takes some liberties with her story to fill in the blanks of the stories that were passed down to her. I read it in two days and that’s all you really need to know.
Running with Scissors: A Memoir or This is How: Surviving What You Think You Can’t by Augusten Burroughs:
Another memoir of a bizarre childhood by my other favorite contemporary author which has also been made into a movie. Augusten Burroughs voice is raw and brutally honest. He carries this writing style over to his out-of-the-box ‘self help’ book ‘This is How’. His advice is sometimes hard to hear but one of the most helpful books I’ve ever come across.
The Giver by Lois Lowry: I’ve honestly lost count the number of times that I have read this book. It was required reading I think in the 5th grade and it’s been a part of my yearly pile since then. This was the book that made me fall in love with reading and how it can help shape your life.
Honorable Mentions:
East of Eden by John Steinbeck, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling (all of them actually), every book ever written by Haruki Murakami but especially What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, Into thin Air & Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer, and for a little guilty pleasure: Sharp Objects & Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
Jess’ List:
An oldie but a goodie. I could not put Bossypants down when I read it… back in 2013. I truly loved every minute and was genuinly sad when it was over. To be fair I am a huge Tina Fey fan and while I feel like the term national treasure gets thrown around a lot these days, but to me she is just that.
Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea by Chelsea Handler is another super funny favorite. I guess I have a thing for autobiographies by female comedians (reading Ali Wong’s, Dear Girls now). I mean it’s also been a while since I’ve read it but it’s light, funny and who doesn’t love stories of debauchery?? Well, I do.
Ok, this is NOT about the lives of female comedians and it’s all thanks to Julie for letting me borrow her copy. Many Lives Many Masters by Brian L. Weiss M.D. changed/affirmed the way I look at death. I am not a religious person but I always believed in something greater. I personally just can’t buy that this is it. Anyway, this book gave me goosebumps nearly the entire way through and at the end gave me a sense of knowing that I had been needing. Even if you don’t believe in any of it, it’s an incredible story. (Jess!!! – Emily here – this is one of my favorites, too).
This was a very hip book to read last year and I got on that cool kid train (and happy I did). I am talking about Normal People by Sally Rooney. I am not a romance novel addict…yet, but this book set me on fire. It is so tragically beautiful in the most simple way.
Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness by Susannah Cahalan. If you haven’t read this book yet (which I am sure a lot of you have) go now. It’s unreal, unbelievable, exhilarating AND a true story. There is also a movie now but I want to preserve the book in my mind so I haven’t seen it.
Now if I am allowed to go waayyyy back, I think Chicken Noodle Soup for the Soul was one of my all-time favorite book series in my tween years and made me happy cry with nearly every story (yes, I have been a happy crier since birth). It’s been about 20 years since I’ve read any of them but in a time like now, wonderful stories about real people doesn’t sound like a bad thing and probably holds up? I am crossing all my fingers and toes that they do.
Sara’s List:
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell: Is this a YA novel? Yes. Are most of my favorite books YA novels? Obviously. That genre just really feels like a giant warm bath for me, one that I never want to leave, the water never gets cold, and my fingers never get prune-y. ‘Fangirl’ hits a really, really personal note for me because it revolves around a girl who essentially writes Fanfiction about her favorite fictional series Simon Snow (i.e. Harry Potter), while following along during her first year of college, and one of the warmest romances I’ve ever read. ‘Fangirl’ was so successful, that Rainbow Rowell (the author) actually wrote a full-length Simon Snow book (it’s SO good, and the romance line is a Fanfiction dream). That one did so well that she turned it into a trilogy. The second one came out recently. Honestly, this whole series is an absolute gem, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Slutever by Karley Sclortino: This is an autobiographical fever dream and a page-turner from start to finish. I listened to it twice, back to back. The publisher’s summary says it best – “Slutever is a call-to-arms, a confessional memoir, a slut manifesto, as told by a sex-radical hedonist in a pink PVC mini dress. It’s a thoughtful, first-person account of a modern woman, navigating sex, love, casual hookups, open relationships, bisexuality, BDSM, breakups, sex work, sex parties, and the power of sexual agency, as told from the front lines.”
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi: I read this book as part of a book club I was in once, and it really stuck with me. It’s a fictional book that follows the generations of two different families, starting with two sisters – one who is sold as a slave in America and the other who remains in Africa. It’s such an eye-opening, and beautifully written story.
Educated by Tara Westover: This memoir reads more like a drama, and it’s hard to remember that you’re reading about someone’s actual life. That they LIVED. It deals heavily with themes of abuse and religion, and there are definitely some depressing chapters. But overall, it’s compelling and a look into a world I can hardly imagine.
Shrill: Notes From A Loud Woman by Lindy West: I’ve got ONE more memoir, and this one kept me laughing the whole way through. It also forces us to take a hard look at our own perceptions and judgments about others.
Wicked & The Wallflower by Sara McLean: GUYS, I couldn’t leave this list without mentioning at least ONE really cheesy, but absolutely amazing romance novel. This was the first one I ever read, so I think that might be why it has such a warm place in my heart. Regency romance novels are not for the faint of heart – they’re cheesy, graphic, and by and large lean heteronormative (typical equation – spinster on the shelf intrigues society bad boy who sees her true beauty when no one else does, debauchery ensues, but it all ends happily every after with a tidy marriage bow). But I just LOVE a good romance. And I’m desperate for more slow-burn romance recommendations, so PLEASE leave any in the comments.
Caitlin’s List:
From Caitlin: A preface: historically, I’m a non-fiction reader, but right now my brain is mush and I don’t really have the bandwidth (or desire, honestly) to think critically in my free time. My picks are SOLID entertainment, I know it, and I’m ready to be judged. (If you are using this time to better yourself, some of my all-time favorites that actually required me to use my brain while reading are :
The View from Flyover Country by Sarah Kendzior
Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber by Mike Isaac
Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism by Naomi Klein
The books I’m actually recommending are like…the opposite of these.) ANYWAY. Here are my literary comfort foods:
I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron: INJECT THIS STRAIGHT INTO MY VEINS, PLEASE. This collection of essays is light and joyous and messy and human but most importantly, it’s easily digestible. Sometimes — especially recently — I want to step back from my screen, but I don’t have the mental space or focus to hone-in on a full chapter of something. What I do have, however, is the attention span to read a couple of pages about the amount of money that we, as a society, spend on purses or haircuts. It’s actually laugh-out-loud funny. Bless Nora Ephron.
4 Fantastic Novels by Daniel Pinkwater: Daniel Pinkwater is my all-time favorite author. I’ve recommended his books on the site before, but ‘4 Fantastic Novels ‘contains both Borgel and The Worms of Kukumlima, which are two of my all-time favorite stories. (I did a fourth-grade book report on the latter.) The writing is silly and wholesome — each novel was fun to read at age 9 *AND* they still hold up 20 years later. I remember reading a review on Amazon that described his writing as “Chicken Soup for the Smart, Mildly Nerdy Teen’s Soul,” and I think that pretty much sums it up. (Also, I sent Daniel Pinkwater an absolutely fanatical email in the eighth grade to tell him how much I loved his books and he sent a measured, encouraging, lovely response. Is it weird that I’m still this much of a fan?)
The Psychopath Test by Jon Ronson: Jon Ronson is a journalist with crippling anxiety who decides to interview some diagnosed psychopaths (like murderers) and some undiagnosed potential psychopaths (CEOs). This book is kind of like a printed version of a My Favorite Murder podcast — it deals with an incredibly queasy subject in a really light-hearted and humorous way. If you’re normally a true crime fan (or if you’re just interested in human psychology), this one is easy to zip through. (An honorary mention has to go to one of his other books, So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed
Origin by Dan Brown: I KNOW. I know. There are entire jokes about Dan Brown being cheesy and I get it. But you know what? These Robert Langdon books are fun to read and I like them and I don’t care who knows it. ‘The Da Vinci Code’ was a FUN BOOK, you guys. ‘Origin’ came out in 2017, so it’s his most recent installation in the series, and guess what: it’s also a FUN BOOK. (Also, if the next book doesn’t feature Robert Langdon sprinting through the streets of a locked-down Milan to find something, I will be really disappointed. We are all actually living through the perfect plot of a thriller right now.)
The Princess Bride by William Goldman: I still don’t feel my biological clock ticking and I’m in no rush to have kids, but if I did happen to have some right now, this is what we’d be reading. Out loud. And then we’d watch the movie afterward. It’d be SO SWEET, you guys.
Mallory’s List:
Let’s start with what I’m reading currently, Jen Gotch’s book The Upside Of Being Down (obviously). I was #emfluenced to buy this along with a lot of the EHD Team, but I can tell you sincerely and honestly, this book is FANTASTIC. And no, I don’t know Jen personally, but I LOVE HER SO MUCH NOW. Read it!!
You want binge-able? I’ll give you binge-able….The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a total oldie but SUCH a goodie. I don’t know how could I NOT include this. It’s my all-time favorite series, and the movies are so fun.
Along the lines of this, if you haven’t read Divergent by Veronica Roth, now’s the time. If you finished the Hunger Games and want basically the same thing but with different characters, here you go.
Okay now that we’ve talked about those two fun fiction and teen-romance novels, I have a confession. I’m not that hugely into fiction, but I’m an avid non-fiction reader. I also find non-fiction to be way less cliff-hanger-y than say, Harry Potter, but when I read I want to feel like I can conquer the world. I personally LOVED #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso, because I just can’t consume enough stories about women entrepreneurs. If you haven’t read it, it’s a non-fiction, business classic!
Chase recommended this book to me and it was such a fun and quick read. It’s called Damn Good Advice (for people with talent!) and it’s written by George Lois who is a real legit Ad guy. It’s super fun and interesting (and it’s a picture book!). Give this one a read if you want to learn how to *and I quote* “unleash your creative potential by America’s master communicator. It’s very MadMen if you’re into that sort of thing.
Ryann here again. This post officially cost me a lot of dollars but I am so excited to lose sleep reading for the foreseeable future, and hopefully, you are too. Now, PLEASE tell us, what is on your favorite books list?? Let’s make this the longest book thread of all time, shall we? See you in the comments section, my sweet friends. xx
Opening Image Credit: Design by Samantha Gluck | Photo by Alison Bernier| From: House Tour: A Warm Scandi-Inspired Home
The Inn at Lake Devine by Elinor Lipman. Pretty much anything by Elinor Lipman. But that was the first one I read and is still my favorite.
Hahaha yes! I once met someone who asked me, “What events in your life have shaped you the most?” in the first 2 minutes of our conversation and I was taken aback and wanted to be her best friend all at once. Books are such an amazing window into other people and perspectives! I really loved Under the Banner of Heaven, Harry Potter, Love Does, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, The Glass Castle, Bossypants, Normal People, and Educated, so I can’t wait to check out the rest of the books y’all recommended! My top five novels (today) are: 1. Maggie O’Farrell – This Must Be The Place 2. Ann Patchett – State of Wonder 3. Jhumpa Lahiri – The Namesake 4. Jennifer Close – The Smart One 5. Lauren Groff – Fates and Furies Non-fiction (I totally agree with Mallory that some novels are too suspenseful to read when you want to be relaxing): 1. Ta-Nehisi Coates – Between the World and Me 2. Brian Stevenson – Just Mercy 3. Michael Pollan – How to Change Your Mind 4. Emily Nagoski – Come As You Are 5. Tara Westover – Educated With honorable mentions to Sally Rooney/Normal People… Read more »
I read to feel safe and to put me to sleep at night 🙂 So here are some suggestions in different genres than much of what is recommended above! (Although it’s always fascinating to hear what other people like, too.)
British 1900s humor: PG Wodehouse. Anything Jeeves, or Blandings, or Psmith. If you enjoy subtle, dry wit. (If you don’t, these might not make sense to you. 🙂 ) There’s also a later one called Do Butlers Burgle Banks that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Middle-grade fiction that still appeals to adults: Eleanor Estes, Elizabeth Enright both have novels that give such a peaceful look into what it would have been like to grow up in the middle 1900s. I love them because of the glimpse into the time period, not necessarily because the plot is so riveting. Also, the Mysterious Benedict Society is a newer series that is somehow timeless but has a lot to think about underneath the actual storyline.
I really enjoyed the Mysterious Benedict Society books too – I just reread them a few months ago with my younger son, who slept through them when my older son and I read them 5 or 6 years ago.
Also in the safe and everything will be ok anglophile category, though not as funny as Wodehouse: Georgette Heyer.
Thanks for the Heyer suggestion!!
Did you see the books by Nicholas Rhea (Constable on the Hill) that just got added to Kindle Unlimited? They’re like the James Herriot of being a police constable. 🙂
I read everything by Heyer as a teenager working my way through our small town New England library. I liked her mysteries best, but her romances are good, too.
I heard my dad laughing out loud in his room because he was reading PG Wodehouse again
I wrote my undergraduate thesis about the Hunger Games! Love seeing it on this list! To Mallory: If you haven’t read Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth, you must! I think it’s even better than Divergent! And to Julie: If you haven’t read the follow-ups to The Giver yet (Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son), you must! They are SO good, especially Gathering Blue!
I’ve had my eye on Secret History. The fact that it appeared twice in this most has me thinking it’s time for me to read it.
OMG, thank you Maggie! Ordering all 3 right now xx
OMG wait. I almost put the Giver on my list, too, but had NO IDEA about the follow up books. THANKS FOR THIS TIP.
UGH LOVE THE HUNGER GAMES
LOVE Gathering Blue and Son!!! 💓
And for those who love the Hunger Games and Divergent, you should read the whole Maze Runner series!!
The Outlander series will keep you busy, entertained, and dare I say obsessed, through this pandemic and maybe the next one. The TV series doesn’t even touch Diana Gaboldon’s genius as creator of Jamie Fraser, the dreamiest fictional man of all time.
I’ve heard this!! I actually have the first book and have yet to open..
Oh lucky you! To read them all again as for the first time would be wonderful. Enjoy!
So, so true… *deep sigh*
Omg he is my greatest fictional love. I fell into a deep depression when things didn’t go well in the book (Third one I think – you know what I’m referring to). My husband thought I was insane.
I do know. But Jamie always prevails, bless him.
My main re-reads are comfort-but-with-emotional-depth-and-good-use-of-language books, and most of it is fantasy/speculative fiction. Jane Austen (especially Persuasion, but Pride & Prejudice is a close 2nd), anything by Guy Gavriel Kay (Lions of Al-Rassan is my very favourite, but all his quasi-historical fiction with elements of fantasy is so good; the exploration of themes through the interweaving of a bunch of characters’ lives is very satisfying), Max Gladstone’s Craft Sequence series (alt-earth urban fantasy where gods/religion/magic are the business of lawyer-like characters and the compelling characters and storytelling are enhanced by the very intricate world-building). The other re-reads I love are ones I’ve read with my kids, so more older kid/YA but satisfying enough for adults who enjoy Harry Potter: everything I’ve read by Diana Wynne-Jones (if you love Harry Potter, you’ll love the Chrestomanci series and the Moving Castle novels, but I think my favourite is Archer’s Goon, which is hilarious and not part of a series), Terry Pratchett’s Tiffany Aching books (we first read The Wee Free Men because a friend’s then-11-year old daughter told me it was hilarious and that I and then-6-year-old would love it; she was right), Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman, and… Read more »
I just remembered another regular re-read: Susan Cooper’s Dark is Rising series, and her book Seaward. Also, in a totally different vein to all my other re-reads, Alice Munro’s short stories.
Alice Munro’s short stories have been the surprise of the decade for me. Absolutely one of my favs though I can’t put my finger on why. Maybe it’s because they always leave me wanting more?
OMG THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!! Sorry for the shouting but I read Dark is Rising as a kid have have been trying to remember what book it was for YEARS. It wasn’t till your comment that I looked it up and was finally able to connect the dots! The relief! Will def be rereading now 🙂
Thanks for reminding me about the Dark is Rising! I used to re-read the series (5 books) annually until my mid-20s. Time for another visit.
I adored the Good Omens miniseries on Amazon but still need to read the book. Thanks for the recommendation!
I loved The Graveyard Book! Neil Gaiman is fantastic.
I did the audiobook for this with Neil Gaiman reading it with his awesome British voice. Fantastic!
I love Diana Wynne Jones! And I also really like Susan Cooper. Since you like those, may I recommend Sherwood Smith (Crown Duel, Court Duel, and the Inda series), Megan Whalen Turner (The Thief and the rest of the series), Patricia C Wrede, and The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater?
I love Patricia Wrede, so thanks for the recs.
Yay, thank you! Adding to my to-read list.
Guy Gavriel Kay books are so good! Lions of Al’Rassan is also my favorite, but A Song for Arbonne is close second.
The Princess Bride–ha! I feel seen.
Finished Normal People today ….what an emotional ride.
right??
If you want to do a Harry Potter re-read, I highly recommend doing it in conjunction with the “Binge Mode: Harry Potter” podcast.
Another great young adult fantasy series is Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” series, and last fall HBO aired an 8-episode series that adapted the first book and part of the second one, which should still be available on HBO Go/Now.
YES, Binge Mode: Harry Potter is amazing!!! My sister recommended it to me and I love it so much. *High Five* to you Deborah!
Another amazing re-read podcast is “Harry Potter And The Sacred Text” which is just SO enlightening.
YES to Fangirl, Sara! That is also one of my favorite books and it’s the first thing I thought of when I saw “couldn’t put down” in the title. I also couldn’t put down The Winner’s Trilogy by Marie Rutkoski, another YA series. A more recent non-YA favorite is “A Long Petal of the Sea” by Isabel Allende.
I also recommend that everyone join Goodreads (free website/app) to track their reading. I’ve been doing it since 2008 and it’s so fun to see what I’ve read, what my friends are reading, and find book recommendations. There’s also a great feature that lets you scan book covers or bar codes. I do it a lot when I’m at the library so I can see the ratings before I decide if I want to check the book out.
I will be ordering and reading ALL of those.
I second the goodreads recommendation!
Here to represent manga/or any other type of graphic novels, light novels, and web comics too!
I’ve been reading a lot of series on the Line Webtoon app (it’s free!), and think Lore Olympus is a really easy one to get into that has beautiful and unique art. It’s such a visual treat, and the story is a twist on Greek mythology with the best combo of modernized drama and romance.
YES YES YES wow I didn’t even think of it, but I am OBSESSED with Lore Olympus. It’s so beautiful, endearing, and romaaaaaantic.
As someone who has over 500 books on my Nook I would say I read frequently. I read a lot of crime fiction and usually like authors that have a series with the same main character. Sue Grafton’s alphabet series involving a female private investigator is a favorite. John Sandford’s series with Virgil Flowers as his main character. Michael Connelly’s series with Harry Bosch. The late Maeve Binchy was an Irish writer who made you want to be in that very village befriending her many characters. Any of her books are delightful. Fredrik Backman’s A man called Ove is a delightful read about how an older gentleman can be persuaded that there is life after the death of his beloved wife. Gail Honeyman’s Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine is to be made into a movie in the near future. Everyone knows an Eleanor and this book may make you think about how to treat any Eleanors that you meet in the future. The Tatooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris is based on a true story and is a heart wrenching story about the holocaust. Any book by Jodi Picoult. I always wish at the end of her books that there… Read more »
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh, so wonderfully written.
Wonderful book
The cozy murder mystery series that takes place in Quebec not far from the Vermont boarder in the sweet town of Three Pines, Montreal, and environs – Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series, great fun.
I LOVED A Man Called Ove.
Chiming in to give a shout-out to ALL the books by David Sedaris!
Agree!
My favourite books are ‘his dark marterials’ by Philip Pullman. Individual books called The Northern Lights, The subtle knife, and the Amber spyglass.
Books relevant for adults and children and truely beautiful. I reread them every couple of years and still find new things in them.
There is also a popular wedding reading from the amber spyglass honestly beautiful books!
I can’t believe no one has recommended Donna Tartt’s best novel The Goldfinch. Do not watch the movie. The novel is incredible
Okay I tried reading it and I am embarrassed to say I couldn’t get through it! Maybe the length of it felt daunting too me at the time. It’s on my shelf thought so one day I’ll get to it I am sure
I couldn’t get through it either Ryann! But I’ve been told several times that I just need to push through.
I loved Goldfinch so very much
I loved The Goldfinch and didn’t even realize how long it was because I didn’t want it to end. I actually didn’t care for The Secret History at all.
I really did prefer the secret history, the goldfinch is amazing in the end if you can get over the hump in the middle
Ooh so many! My Life in France – I’ve been rereading this during the pandemic because Julia Child has the most delightfully joyous, positive outlook on life. You would never know from the tone of this book that she had just lived through WW2. It will help you remember to revel in life’s simple pleasures, the feeling of dough on your fingers, the flake of a croissant, a hot cup of coffee by a sunny window. And her delight in her husband – it will make you want to be a better partner…and bake a baguette. Cannot recommend enough. Other lovelies: Night Film – A super smart page-turning thriller (and this from someone who usually hate thrillers) with so many clever twists and turns A Suitable Boy-It’s one of the longest books ever published in the English language and you will love. every. page. A beautiful, epic story of love and family set against the backdrop of post-independence India. Shantaram – Another long juicy page turner set in India – this time about an escaped Australian convict who remakes himself running a clinic in a slum of India. There is love, there is intrigue, there are guerrillas, Bollywood stars, gangsters.… Read more »
Alice LaPlante: Turn of Mind. an all time fave.
Just read and loved Glennon Doyle’s Untamed. Great read.
let’s not describe racy romance novels as garbage! 🙂
i think the last romance novel i read that i liked was Bringing Down the Duke. If you’ve never read a romance, somewhat racy novel but are interested, I definitely recommend this book as an easy intro!
Hi Laura, you are totally correct, and I’ve edited my language! It is my favorite genre after all.
Oh boy, I have a LONG list!! First off, Chris Bohjalian “The Flight Attendant” is wildly suspenseful and soooo good!! Elin Hildebrand “The Perfect Couple,” Ruth Ware “The Woman in Cabin 10,” Glennon Doyle “Love Warrior,” and since so many recommendations are showing John Krakauer, another one is Graham Bowley “No Way Down.”
Also, Tara Westovers “Educated was fantastic. And Jhumpa Lahiri’s “The Namesake” was so good I couldn’t put it down. I recommended Glennon Doyle’s Love Warrior, but every book that she has written is really good.
I love Jhumpa Lahiri!!
Ahhh, my favorite book from last year is likely AJ Finn’s “Woman in the Window.” Psychological thriller that kept me reading all night and feverishly texting about the plot with my girlfriend who was reading it at the same time!!! SO, SO GOOD.
Hey. Just an FYI that Sara’s attitude towards romance novels is really “garbage” as well. Have you ever asked yourself why romance novels are looked down upon? Could it because they are mostly enjoyed by women? It is yet another way that society looks down upon the things that women enjoy and you are only supporting. You mention that they are often heteronormative but look at some of the other book choices here – how many of them feature queer relationships for example? It just shows your ignorance towards a whole genre of books that is largely written by and for women – the very same people who largely enjoy this blog I would argue. Suggest that you choose your words more wisely next time or do a quick google about the romance industry and the patriarchal way that society writes about it.
P.s. I am a longtime reader and love the work that you all do, but I hate this kind
Of condescending attitude towards a whole field of writing
Hey Anna, I want to start by apologizing for calling the romance genre “garbage.” I was wrong to use the word “garbage,” especially when I am such a big fan of the genre. And after reflecting I’ve edited my language in the post.
In regards to the heteronormativity within the genre, I would certainly like to expand my library to be more inclusive and I am actively seeking out those books within the romance genre (but always love more suggestions). The Simon Snow series I mentioned above from my recommendation #1 has a really swoon worth romance line between the main character and his roommate. And Slutever is a great, sexually progressive memoir. As for some non-heteronormative recommendations from the romance genre specifically, a few favorites are “The Solider’s Scoundrel,” or “A Little Light Mischief.” I throughly enjoyed both, and Cat Sebastian is a personal favorite.
I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts!
Along this discussion – I would highly recommend Less by Andrew Sean Greer
Thank you for sharing this list! So excited to try some new genres and authors!
My FAVORITE guilty pleasure read is the historical romance series, The Bridgertons. It is an 8 book series following a family in the early 1800’s in London. They are silly and funny, yet sexy and sweet…and Netflix is coming out with a Bridgerton show this year! I’ve read them all multiple times and there is a prequel series to check out too. Highly recommend!
THIS SOUNDS LIKE IT WAS MEANT FOR ME!
I love the Maisie Dobb’s series, historical fiction set before and during World War 2. Maisie is a great character, and the stories of her detective work are fantastic.
For people who like non-fiction (although it’s so wild it reads as fiction) I strongly also recommend Red Notice by Bill Browder. It’s about his work in Russia and how it lead to him being on the Interpole most wanted list with Russian agents out to get him. This is also great as an audio book.
Maisie Dobb’s is great.
I am a major fan of what I have deemed the “chick lit mystery” category. I also like the typical chick lit or mystery separately, but there is something about the “One for the Money” series by Janet Evanovich, The Addison Holmes series by Liliana Hart, and the Heather Wells series by Meg Cabot, that I just love!
However, my favorite book of all time is Kafka’s The Trial, so it is safe to say that my reading taste is a little all over the map.
Danielle from Whether the Storm Blog
I have a recommendation that I am 10000% confident both Emily and Brian will LOVE- The River By Peter Heller. Also think you’d both enjoy Lauren Goff’s Fates and Furies. And I think everyone on your team would enjoy Lori Gottleib’s Maybe You Should Talk to Someone… which is excellent on audiobook! So juicy! And to anyone who loves Tina Fey’s book, try Jessi Klein’s You’ll Grow Out of It and Jim Gaffigan’s Dad if Fat.
Romance novels are only good if the author is good! Others to try if you like Sarah Maclean: Tessa Dare & Lisa Kleypas 🙂
I agree with all of the above, and I recently discovered Julie Anne Long – her Pennyroyal Green series is really fun. I’m always looking for authors in the veins of these ladies and struggle to find both writing style and plot lines I enjoy.
Oh thank you THANK YOU for this post! This brought me out of being an avid reader but not yet poster on this delight of a site. I have a few dozen books I’ve been meaning to read for months now and still find myself scrolling the Netflix menu listlessly instead of diving into one of them- this is the kick in the pants I need to get excited to go read. I have a copy of Prep that is now screaming at me “See?!? I told you I was good!” from its dusty corner of the shelf. A recommendation in return- The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons. It’s set in WWII Russia and when my friend loaned it to me and I read that on the back jacket I was like zzzzz…it sat on my nightstand for a month before I finally started it just out of guilt, struggled through the first chapter or so and then COULD NOT STOP READING. So so so good! The most romantic, epic, heartbreaking thing I’ve ever read. And if you really can’t bring yourself to read “historical” fiction, try my other favorite book of hers- The Girl in Times Square. Flat out… Read more »
I forgot to mention my best read of last year, YA historical fiction, “The Downstairs Girl” by Stacey Lee. And from a few years ago, “Full Cicada Moon” by Marilyn Hilton…. just beautiful!
Inspector Gamache series by Louise Penny, Mrs. Tim books by D. E. Stevenson (actually all of her books, I have all of them and have re-read so many times), Laura Lippman books, Elinor Oliphant i s Completely Fine, and SO many more. I read at least three books a week, all types, it’s my jam.
I am late to the game, but I just read Educated by Tara Westover and just could not put it down. I love His Dark Materials trilogy. I was obsessed with Goldfinch, but started The Secret History and never finished it. I will open it back up!
I got weirdly into some YA/kids books for a time because I could finish a whole book on a flight/hotel night, I read all the Cirque du Freak vampire books and they have embarrassingly large print, but they were really fun and easy and really weird. I loved The Dark is Rising books by Susan Cooper.
And of course, Harry Potter. Forever.
Yes! High-five on this post! And lots of gems on here! I’ve actually got Motherless Brooklyn on my nightstand right now.
To All the Boys series! Really enjoyable! 🙂
What a lovely post 🙂
Ok I love reading so much that I ran to my shelf to compile my list:
The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill (must read)
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
Fall On Your Knees by Ann-Marie MacDonald (all her books are amazing)
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
Fall of Giants by Ken Follett (anything by him really)
I know this much is true by Wally Lamb (incredible author)
Outlander series!!! I got so invested particularly in the first book
For a lighter read, anything Phillipa Gregory
For tweens, can’t recommend Kit Pearson’s books enough, particularly Awake and Dreaming and a Handful of Time. And the Anne of Green Gables series was another fav when I was young.
Yes to Anne of Green Gables!
Ann-Marie MacDonald’s The Way The Crow Flies changed me.
I just bought The Secret History – now I’m excited to open it up.
I just read Ann Patchet’s The Dutch House. Beautiful writing. I cried, I smiled with a warm heart, I needed a few weeks off reading books to recover.
I just finished The Dutch House by Ann Patchett an hour ago and have to second your recommendation! It’s been so long since I’ve read a book without realizing I was reading; the writing is so familiar—it’s brilliant.
The Time Travelers Wife – my favorite book ever. It feels a little creepy at some points early on, but keep reading b/c that all gets worked out. The Harry Potter series of course (read as an adult in past few years and am blown away). For YA I absolutely loved the Book Thief. Other favorites – The Glass Castle and 3 books by Paula McClain: Circling the Sun, The Paris Wife and Love and Ruin. These are somewhat biography/somewhat historical fiction (the second two are about 2 of Hemingway’s wives). They are all about the lives of real women and I just love how she captures their stories with such empathy and respect. My Life in France about Julia Child (mentioned by another reader) is also delightful. I read The Secret History based on EHD recommendations, but it just didn’t do it for me. It might be worth a second read.
I’ve read and enjoyed a lot of the books in the post, but The Time Travelers Wife is definitely one of my very favorites. I sobbed, loud, wet, nose-running sobs, on an airplane at the ending of it, but it was totally worth it.
Thanks for the validation! Not many ppl seem to have read this book, so I love connecting with someone who appreciates it like I do. After reading that book I don’t think I read another for at least 6 months, maybe longer. I just didn’t think any book would ever measure up. The Book Thief is what brought me out of that hiatus, so it remains a favorite. The other time a long reading hiatus happened for me was after The Kitchen House. I should have thought to mention this one before. Really, really great book. So good I had to take some time off reading when I was done with it.
Love this! I also read tons, and go back and forth between fun and books I feel “I should read”(Right now reading Moby Dick!).I loved a lot on this: Donna Tartt A Secret History (what about goldfinch? So good!), Educated, Sally Rooney books, Homegoing. Other books I can think of I loved: Americanah, Interpreter of Maladies, Trevor Noah’s book, The art Forger, A Man Called Ove, Wonder, All the Light We Cannot See, snd David Sedaris’s books just keep getting better and better.
Also loved Americanah and Interpreter of Maladies. Have you read Unaccustomed Earth?
In the past year, I have read quite a few books recommended by friends. Most of them disappointed. Maybe my favorite was The Alice Network. I also liked the trilogy that includes The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo- much better than the movie. And Where the Crawdads Sing. And All the Light We Cannot See. But I really loved a lot of the classics as a kid and have enjoyed rereading many of them. The Scarlet Letter, Jane Eyre, Huckleberry Finn, Little Women, you know. And I like Hemingway’s books. And because I love Hawaii- Hawaii.
I will definitely try some of these recommendations above, once the library reopens. I’ve been put in “spending prison” by my husband for buying too many things in “stay home, stay safe”. Now is the time I regret never having bought an e-reader.
My husband is currently rereading all the Peter Mayle books- A Year in Provence, etc.
I think you could download an E reader app onto your computer or phone. I would look and see which one your library system uses. Then you could check out digital books from your library system.
Thank you!
Yes! Download an app and then read for free from the library. I get about 80% of my books from the library for my kindle and purchase the rest as downloads. I ADORE my kindle, and if you are willing to make one final purchase, it is a pretty affordable device.
I’m reading the Alice Network currently. I love it. Nothing like strong scrappy heroines. The Lost Girls of Paris was also excellent and in the same genre.
Get The Library Extension for Chrome browsers. Then, when you go on amazon, it lets you know if the book is at your library, or if there’s an ebook version you can download. Has saved me tons of money!
Sorry, but this is the part where I quit reading:
“Brian nor I could put this down.”
So could you put it down or not? A post about books should really English better.
I made a short list for a friend recently. A few of my favorites: Once Upon a River by Dianne Setterfield, A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore, Euphoria by Lily King, Don’t lets Go to the Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller, Middlesex by Jeffery Eugenides and Esperanza’s Box of Saints by Maria Escandon.
Some of my favorites that haven’t been mentioned:
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant-so goooood!
Pillars of the Earth by Ken FOllett
Ohio by Stephen Markley
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus
They are all huge, sweeping stories, centered around women and un-put-downable!
Loved Pillars of the Earth!
My favourite young adults ever are:
-Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead (6 books). Agreed about Jamie and Claire Fraser from Outlander, but damn Rose and Dimitri!! Don’t compare it with the movie.
-The Darkness Rising series by Kelley Armstrong (3 books)
-Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas (7 books?) or A Court of Thorns and Roses
All highly addictive series, with romances that make your heart melt away!
Yes! A Court of Thorns and Roses was SO good! I’ve read the whole series twice now. And Throne of Glass was fantastic too! Other favorite reads:
Vampires: A Discovery of Witches series
Mystery: The Cuckoo’s Calling (written by Robert Galbraith aka. J.K. Rowling)
Enneagram: The Road Back to You
Non-Fiction: Do You Mind if I Cancel?
I just finished The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, a really fun, breezy read that I think you’d enjoy. Other books I couldn’t put down from the last few years: The Goldfinch, Homegoing, Pachinko, In Cold Blood (ok, not from the last few years, but somehow I had never read it until last year), Where the Crawdads Sing, An American Marriage, Americanah, The Sixth Extinction (nonfiction), Born a Crime (memoir), Maybe You Should Talk to Someone (memoir).
+50 to Pachinko which is a modern classic
There is a peace I can only access through reading. I adore thousands of books, I could write my own books rambling on over how much I love ‘The Bell Jar’ Sylvia Plath or ‘ I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings’ – Maya Angelou
And the class struggle that Pip feels in Charles Dickens ‘Great Expectations’ has me in pain.
My recent all consuming, world doesn’t exist books are:
• The Language of Flowers – Vanessa Diffenbaugh
• I Let You Go – Claire Mackintosh
• Behind Closed Doors – BA Paris
Last but not least, if you have not read Colleen Hoovers ‘Verity’ wow! You’re missing out. You’ll read it in a day or two, it is so edge of your seat reading that you’ll be on the floor and not even notice.
I forgot about the Language of Flowers. So good!
Oh I love books and book recommendations! Fiction: Michael Chabon – The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay is on my favorites list as well Margaret Atwood – Everyone has probably heard of A Handmaid’s Tale, but I also really liked Oryx and Crake (maybe even better) Kate Atkinson – Life After Life (all the different ways a life can go) Laurie Frankel – This Is How It Always Is (a story of a transgender child and her parents) Lois McMaster Bujold – The Curse of Chalion (excellent medieval political fantasy) Akwaeke Emezi – Freshwater (a novel about multiple personalities, as experienced by the author. not a light read but fascinating) Jasper Fforde – Thursday Next series (set in the world where all our stories are made, and literary crimes are very serious) Brandon Sanderson – The Way of Kings and sequels (fantasy, with excellent world-building) Orson Scott Card – Ender and Bean series (some people would put these on a young adult list, and I started reading them in high school, but they’re much more than that) Almost philosophy: Richard Bach – Jonathan Livingston Seagull (a seagull who wants to fly for the beauty of it) Non-fiction: Farley Mowat –… Read more »
I will have to look into some of these because the first three books you mentioned are on my list of favorite books!
I’d forgotten about the Bunnicula series — loved it as a kid and I bet my kids would love it too. You seem to have similar taste in books to me so I’ll be checking out those on your list I haven’t read yet.
Kate Atkinson’s Jackson Brodie series are so good too, even if you’re not usually into crime fiction. My favourites are the two set in Scotland (One Good Turn and When Will There Be Good News?), but all five books are great.
Christina – I enjoyed the first Jackson Brodie book and plan to read the rest!
Okk… I am so HAPPY to be able to talk about regency books! I absolutely LOVE them even though sometimes I dont understand for the exact reasons you mentioned Sara!
But I have a TON of recs… love Sarah Maclean, and I suggest for her, and other, that you read by series… nothing better than really embarking on the story, live the series because of that.
My favorite of all time is the Bridgertons series by Julia Quinn, her books are amazing and it is soon to be a series on Netflix!
Other authors I love are Tessa Dare, Lisa Kleypas, Eloisa James And Lorraine Heath!
Other miscellaneous book recs: Jill Mansell, Mhairi Mcfarlane and Liane Moriarty
Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators by Ronan Farrow is SCARY and TRUE!! You will learn a lot, be entertained because it is so well written and paced, and be horrified! Other books I love: I Capture the Castle, Peace like a River, A Room with a View, The Sugar Queen, How Not to Die (scientific evidence about the amazing ways food can heal- the first bit about his grandmother will hook you) novels by Ha Jin, Graham Greene, and many mentioned on the lists. Love this post, thank you!!
I have to add Walk Two Moons and Because of Winn-Dixie – heartbreakingly beautiful books written for younger readers. Okay, I’ll stop now.
Catch and Kill was fantastic!
Thanks for a great list, especially when it seems like screen time is getting a bit much. But I don’t get the disclaimer for Bob Goff’s book. Apparently, it’s “so much more” than a book by a Christian author, a disappointing back-handed compliment when these recommendations were supposed to be a way to help us through tough and often lonely times. It seems incredibly short-sighted to think that none of your readers who love Emily’s videos and brilliant design ideas have a different belief system than your team. It’s great to see Bob Goff on this list but I wish we could have skipped the surprise that someone like him deserved to be included. After his book, I think it’ll be time to reread Harry Potter.
These suggestions sound great, especially when yes, all I’ve been doing is rewatching friends when the kids have gone to bed!
My favourite rereads are definitely the HP series as mentioned by many here, Jane Austen (Pride and Prejudice and Emma are faves) and the Anne of Green Gables series by LM Montgomery. The Anne series (although yes probably originally written for kids)in particular just feels like a big warm hug from an old friend!
Two of my fave books have to be The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. Both are definitely heavier books set during war times but are so beautifully written and will stay with you long after you finish reading them.