When it’s pouring outside and the sun starts setting earlier, all you want to do is relax at home with a warm drink and a good book. After a long day at work here are some of my personal favourites that you can use to hide away and transport yourself to a different world.
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
If you haven’t heard of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, where have you been? This diary entry style, coming of age novel is a moving read no matter what stage of life you’re in. Introverted teenager Charlie explores his relationships with grief, friendship, self-discovery and something we can all relate to… being a teenager in high school.
The vulnerability and raw portrayal of growing up that is portrayed throughout this book is why it has become one I go to every year when autumn rolls around. The way Chbosky writes feels so authentic you begin to forget that you’re reading fiction and not snooping through someone’s personal thoughts. After reading you might just be inspirited to do some reflection of your own.
- Dracula by Bram Stoker
What kind of autumn reading list would this be if we completely skipped over all things spooky. With Halloween soon on its way, my personal favourite holiday, why not try a story a little out of your comfort zone. This Victorian-gothic novel may not be the easiest read, but it is still moving all the same.
The 1800’s horror novel shaped the modern vampire fiction and media representation we see today, so calling any Twilight or The Vampire Diaries fans because this is the OG!
Told through letters, diary entries and telegrams this tale offers multiple perspectives so there’s never a dull moment; Set in Whitby this tale is closer to home than you think so the next time you get caught by a bit of rain – this is the one to pull off your shelf.
- High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
This contemporary fiction set in a record shop is the perfect book for any music lover. As shop owner Rob confronts fears about love, commitment and growing up he reflects on five of his most significant breakups through the power of music.
I’m not the first to say that music holds memories so not only is the relatability of the book off the charts but the banter between friends makes the story seem that much more real.
Autumn is a time for change especially regarding university so why not be encouraged to go headfirst into new beginnings with music by your side, just like Rob would.
- Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
We couldn’t have one iconic Gothic novel without the other. Frankenstein explores the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition and the moral responsibilities of creation.
Written by Mary Shelley when she was just 18 years old, the novel was inspired by her trip to Europe. By reading this story that was so ahead of its time, you might be inspired to experiment with writing your own.
- If We Were Villains by M.L.Rio
This is a book on my own personal TBR that I have been saving specifically for this time of year to roll around. This dark academia, murder mystery sounds like the perfect thing to get your head stuck into if the uni workload is slowing down and you need something to spice up your life.
Blending a multitude of hobbies like theatre, Shakespeare and psychology this book has something to intrigue everyone and for someone who isn’t always the biggest fan of crime stories, I am definitely looking forward to reading this one.
Image credit: Charlotte Ward
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