The leaves are changing, and I have had to put on a sweatshirt some mornings. I have been partaking in all things pumpkin spice and busting out some of my favorite cozy books. People often ask me what my favorite books are, and the short answer is always “Anne of Green Gables” and “Little Women”. These are like the Pumpkin Spice Latte of my book-ish world. Just cracking them open is wrapping up in a literary hug.
Of course, sometimes people ask me about my favorite books, and I know they are looking for something other than kids’ books or classic literature. They aren’t asking me what made me a reader as a kid, but more what has kept me a reader as an adult. It is a tricky question to answer, and it honestly feels a bit like asking me to choose between my children because of how much I love reading and books in general – but I have thought long and hard. I narrowed it down to three excellent works of contemporary fiction that you will hopefully add to your list of favorites.
"Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen. It is hard to believe that I first read this book nearly two decades ago, but I promise it stands the test of time.
Centering around a Depression-era traveling circus, this book is equal parts love story and adventure. The characters in this one feel so real you will swear it is more truth than fiction. Plus, who isn’t curious about the bizarre and grimy world of the traveling circus?
"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid. I talk about this book all the time. My kids joke that I will use my dying breath to recommend Evelyn Hugo to anyone who will listen, and they are probably right. Despite the title, old Hollywood movie star Evelyn Hugo’s seven husbands are far from the stars of this show. Old Hollywood glam, a female main character that will live rent-free in your head forever, a heartbreaking and beautiful storyline all at once – what more could you ask for?
“Lily and the Octopus” by Steven Rowley. Now, bear with me on this one – it is sad. Like super sad. It does center around the illness and loss of a beloved dachshund named Lily - which is a deal breaker for some readers, usually, myself included. But while it is indeed sad (be warned: you will cry your eyes out), it is also a beautiful story of a man’s unending love for his dog and how our pets are truly intertwined with every facet of our lives, even after they are gone.
Now, go get yourself a PSL, put on your biggest coziest hoodie, and grab one of these books. I will be here, cuddled up in my little library with my beloved friend and fellow lover of Octobers, Anne Shirley – and of course, I will be waiting for you to come and tell me about your favorite comfort reads over on Instagram @allison.the.reader, where I will be reading and rambling my way through the week as always.
Allison Diegel is the Executive Chaos Coordinator at the Diegel Home for Wayward Girls and Their Many Pets right here in her hometown of Fallon. She has been reading since before she could talk, and now she likes doing lots of both. You can see more of her readings and ramblings by following her on Instagram @allison.the.reader
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