Now that it’s October, I know I want to start reading some books that are well suited to sitting with a ratty old blanket and a bottomless pumpkin spice latte. Here are five picks, new and old, that make me think of autumn reading.
1. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett – What better way to read about the great outdoors without actually heading out into that autumn chill? The Secret Garden not only recalls autumnal school memories for me but is forever associated with growth, decay, and the wonder of nature.
2. Atonement by Ian McEwan – For me, autumn weather needs this sweeping yet melancholy romance. It’s gripping yet sedate, comfortably paced, and utterly beautiful. During the shift in the season, you can reflect on tortured young love and World War II.
3. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman – Then, of course, there’s the fantasy escape. Neverwhere is just as earthy and beautiful as the previous two, but follows a shift in one man’s existence and sense of self as he transcends to a fantasy realm.
4. The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton – Even if classics make you go “ugh,” The Age of Innocence should be enjoyable. Newland Archer is engaged to marry a lovely (if boring) young woman when a disavowed cousin sweeps back into his life and makes him reevaluate his commitment to the aristocracy.
5. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster – A back-to-school classic and a lot of fun with wordplay. Time to revisit this one.
What are your classic autumn reads?
One reply on “Five Great Autumn Reads (Or Re-Reads)”
I appreciate this list, and adore classics. Still, shame on me, because I have not yet read anything by Gaiman. People encourage me to read him – it’s a constant refrain!