"Let’s be reasonable and add an eighth day to the week that is devoted exclusively to reading." ~Lena Dunham

This quote is exactly how I feel about reading! No matter how much time I get to read… I still feel like I could fill a whole extra day a week with just reading. I recognize that this is not exactly how everyone feels about reading. No matter where you are at in your reading journey, I think that fall often marks a time that the idea of reading feels like just the right amount of cozy!

In the fall, there is a crispness in the air, a memory of school, and a desire to find hygge (the Danish idea of ultimate cozy, worth looking up if that sounds like something you need in your life!). All of this makes the idea of a giant cup of tea, sitting wrapped up in a blanket on a chill evening, with a great book sound just about perfect. Which is why I wanted to share some reading tips and lists for you to enjoy this season. 

WHAT KIND OF READER ARE YOU

"One glance at a book and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for 1,000 years. To read is to voyage through time." ~Carl Sagan

In June, I shared a Summer Reads Book List (you can find it here: https://graceandhopecollective.com/blogs/news/summer-reads-book-list ). There I shared how instead of a bookworm; I am a book chameleon. This idea gives me freedom! It also helps me decide what books I read, and how often I read, and how I organize my reading. 

Sometimes it can be helpful to think and dream about what we want our reading life to look like! So, try that out now…

• What type of books did you love to read when you were younger?
• What type of books do you enjoy right now?
• When do you have time to read? And how do you read (audio book, digital books, physical copies, etc.)?
• How does reading fit into your busy life?
• Are you a lifelong reader? What does that look like right now?

BOOK SUGGESTIONS

"I think books are like people, in the sense that they’ll turn up in your life when you most need them." ~Emma Thompson

Get your TBR ready. Let’s go!

For those wanting to add extra coziness in their life…

• The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking

A tiny, beautiful book that will give you insight into this Danish philosophy. Learn all the best ways to build a cozy life.

For those who love ultimate cozy adventures…

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein

This is the definitive work on little cozy adventures. Join Bilbo for the adventure of a lifetime! If you have never read it, it’s a worthwhile little story. And if not, maybe it’s time to return to Middle Earth.

For those who want something a little spooky…

• Shadow & Bone by Leigh Bardugo

I am not really a spooky book person… but this dark, mysterious fantasy is one that I did (mostly) enjoy. 

For those who love the classics…

• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

The very first chapter of this book may actually be about Christmas, but the book itself feels very fall to me. I love connecting with the March sisters and reading about their simple beautiful lives. I will always suggest and love this book! It’s one of my life books.

For the mom who is really busy…

• Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons

I truly loved this book! It’s especially helpful for people who maybe feel a little burned out, or just overwhelmed in this season. Rebekah will walk you through exact steps and strategies to find a spirit of renewal.

For those who love fairy tales…

• Spindle’s End by Robin McKinley

This is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, with some great twists. If you love fairy tales, then this book is for you! There is so much to enjoy, it feels like a rich tapestry full of great characters and moments.

For anyone who loves a classic mystery…

• The Father Brown Mysteries by G.K. Chesterton

These are classic and fun mysteries. Easy to read, and clever twists. They feel a bit like the Poirot series, and have a great show based on them as well.

For anyone who loves classics, mysteries, and creepy vibes…

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

You really can’t go wrong with this book! It’s got all the good autumn vibes. Plus it feels cozy and mysterious. If you haven’t read it, I highly suggest it. If you have, it’s definitely worth a reread.

For the entrepreneur and goal maker…

• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

Such a good book! If you are having a hard time chasing your dreams or feeling discouraged for any reason, this book can help you find motivation and figure out next steps.

What books would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments! 

"Reading should not be presented to children as a chore, a duty. It should be offered as a gift." ~Kate DiCamillo

START READING

"When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young." ~Maya Angelou

Reading is a gift. One that can be enjoyed no matter your age, no matter the type of book you like, no matter how you read. May this fall bring lots of reading time and good books!

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

1. Which fall book do you think we should add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!
2. Which fall book from the list would you most like to read?
3. When and where can you implement your reading habit this fall?
4. If you were to start a book club or literary group, what would you read?
5. What’s one thing from this blog that has inspired you to read this season?