Autumn is a wonderful season to cozy up with a good book. Whether you’re looking for books that capture the essence of fall, delve into themes of change and transformation, or simply want some compelling reads for the season, here are some top autumnal reads:
1. “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt:
This dark and atmospheric novel set in a New England college explores themes of friendship, obsession, and the consequences of one fateful autumn night.
2. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern:
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of a magical circus that only appears at night. Morgenstern’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions make this a perfect autumn read.
3. “The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt:
Another masterpiece by Tartt, this novel follows the life of a young boy who survives a tragic accident in a New York City museum, intertwining themes of art, loss, and redemption.
The first book in Ali Smith’s seasonal quartet, this novel explores the passage of time and the changing seasons through the friendship between an elderly man and a young girl. This is one that I’m especially looking forward to reading!
5. “The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield:
A haunting and gothic mystery that’s perfect for the season, this book weaves together secrets, family histories, and the power of storytelling.
6. “Pumpkinheads” by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks:
If you’re in the mood for a graphic novel, “Pumpkinheads” is a delightful story set in a pumpkin patch on the last night of the season. It’s filled with autumnal vibes and charm.
7. “The Scorpio Races” by Maggie Stiefvater:
Set on a small island where water horses emerge from the sea, this novel captures the essence of autumn and the thrill of a dangerous horse race. Maggie Stiefvater is one of my favorite authors ever and I can’t recommend this one enough!
8. “The Hazel Wood” by Melissa Albert:
This modern fairy tale blends dark fantasy with elements of horror, making it a perfect choice for the season of Halloween.
9. “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame:
A timeless classic that beautifully depicts the changing seasons, with a focus on the cozy comforts of home and friendship.
For a classic horror novel to get you in the Halloween spirit, look no further than the tale of the infamous vampire Count Dracula. I read this book for the first time during the fall and I can say with certainty that reading it during the month of October really adds something.
These autumnal reads offer a variety of genres and themes, so you can find something that suits your taste and mood for the season. Whether you’re into mystery, fantasy, contemporary fiction, or classic literature, there’s something here to help you enjoy the autumn months.