As we slip into fall, comfort and warmth become necessities, and there is no better way to get into the seasonal spirit than by diving into a good book. As dramatic as it sounds, sitting in a cozy chair, wearing a soft sweater and reading a gripping book is what I live for.
This may be controversial, but I also find that fall is the best time of year for fashion. I love the warm color palette and the opportunity to layer pieces.
With that, I’ll offer some book recommendations based on your favorite autumnal clothing item.
Cozy up in your favorite turtleneck — and warm your heart with a romance
If you enjoy wearing thick turtleneck sweaters, read “You, Again” by Kate Goldbeck.
This novel follows Ari and Josh, who could not be more different. Ari is an easy-going comedian who prefers to keep relationships casual, while Josh is a neurotic chef keen on finding the love of his life.
With quippy banter and heartfelt dialogue, their story unravels over the course of many years. They began as enemies, but their relationship transforms as they grow as individuals.
This book is perfect for thick-turtleneck-wearing hopeless romantics, or anyone who needs a little bit of romance this fall season.
For the mysterious trench coat wearer
I think reading “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt should be a prerequisite for owning a trench coat. This book takes place in a small liberal arts college in Vermont, creating that cozy autumn atmosphere.
Our narrator, Richard Papen, befriends a group of esoteric Classics students, and let’s just say things go awry.
On the first page, we learn that the friend group, including our narrator, has murdered their friend, Bunny. The story recounts the events leading up to the murder, as well as the evolution of the friend group.
Like trench coat wearers, this story is elusive and detail-oriented. If you’re looking for a book that’ll have you hooked for weeks, “The Secret History” is for you.
Savor some poetry in your soft suede shoes
Whether you’re into classic Uggs or Birkenstock Boston clogs, suede shoe enthusiasts need to read “Swan” by Mary Oliver. This poetry collection is the epitome of coziness and can put anyone in a good mood.
Oliver is known for her vibrant descriptions of nature and her earnest writing style. She couples these features with a sprinkle of humor, creating the perfect balance for accessible poetry.
This collection contains a poem called “Of Time,” in which Oliver describes a longing to move through life quickly, like a hummingbird, but also to move through life slowly and savor it.
I think the best way to enjoy this collection is to read one poem at a time and savor it in your suede shoes.
Rock some leather and invite mystique
If you’re more of a leather jacket kind of person, “Truly Devious” by Maureen Johnson is the novel for you. Similar to “The Secret History,” this story takes place at a school in Vermont designed for gifted high school students.
Our protagonist Stevie Bell is a criminology connoisseur who is eager to solve the Ellingham case, a cold murder case that was opened long before she began attending the academy.
With the help of her gifted and talented friends, Stevie embarks on the adventure of solving an infamous crime and getting through her first year at the school. This mystery will captivate you from the beginning to the very end.
Nothing beats a classic accessory — or a classic novel
If your favorite fall accessory is a thick scarf, then you must read “Franny and Zooey” by J. D. Salinger. This book is by no means a new recommendation, as it was published in 1961, but I think it’s perfect for the fall season.
This story follows two siblings, Franny and Zooey Glass, as they navigate different phases of life. Franny, a 20-year-old college student, is experiencing a major crashout, and her older brother Zooey, a 25-year-old actor, consoles and supports her.
“Franny and Zooey” is perfect for anyone experiencing a crashout of their own. Like a scarf, this story is elevated and effective. It’s also philosophical and funny, and I believe there is no better medicine for a worried soul.
Franny is deeply relatable, and Zooey is the supportive yet irritating older brother that many of us have. If you’re a scarf-wearer looking for a character-driven story, this is it.
Lace up your leather boots and hop into a world of fantasy
Last but certainly not least, I would like to recommend “Year of the Reaper” by Makiia Lucier for all of my leather boot aficionados.
This fantasy novel chronicles the tale of Lord Cassia, a noble, who finds himself in enemy territory and is stuck in prison for three years while a plague devastates the kingdom.
Eventually returning to his home kingdom, Cassia is tasked with finding the identity of an assassin who has made multiple attempts on the queen’s life.
The hazy, grey atmosphere of this story is perfect for fall. If you’re looking to escape the real world and embark on a fantastical adventure, this novel is for you.
I hope that at least one of these books — and articles of clothing — speaks to you, and that your fall will be filled with many crunchy leaves and pumpkin-flavored treats.