Whether you prefer to take your book outside to read among the ambiance of College Green, or you like to curl up in your warmly-lit and equally atmospheric room, there is something so unique about reading a captivating story in the fall. Although reading transcends all seasons, there are some books that seem to achieve their truest form during autumn and should be appreciated during that time. Here is a compilation of these kinds of books to inspire your fall reading list:
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
Frankenstein’s monster is one of the most infamous creatures in the world, and his story is further explored in Shelley’s early 19th century novel. “Frankenstein” broke barriers for feminist authors and for the horror genre and is the perfect spooky start to a fall reading list. This book is frightening, spirited and will hit your heart in a million different ways.
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
“The Secret History” is a more recent work but uses the trope of dark academia to paint an intellectual picture that spans centuries. The Pulitzer-winning author has written the perfect book both for college students looking to fuel their academic desires and for those looking to inspire their adventurous spirit.
“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
This gothic novel transcends time in a way that can only be equated to the inexplicable quality of fall. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is a mind-bending story about vanity and stubbornness that has a certain darkness about it. Every word seems to be cloaked in a haze that wistfully odes to this time of year.
“Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy
If you are in the mood for a longer read, this famous Tolstoy novel is perfect for fall. “Anna Karenina” was written with a style of dramatic simplicity that puts readers at ease, yet keeps them on the edge of their seat. Tolstoy’s talent for worldbuilding shines through in this epic tale, resulting in an ambient that is meant to be read in the dark by candlelight.
“And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie
Christie’s classic whodunnit is a fun way to challenge your brain with a little mystery. “And Then There Were None” is replete with eccentric characters, ghastly weather and plenty of anticipation. Any Agatha Christie book will get you in an eerie mood, and there’s no better way to start a Christie-binge than with her most acclaimed novel.
“The Hobbit” by J. R. R. Tolkien
While some argue that “The Hobbit” is a children’s book, it remains to this day one of the most comforting fantasy novels ever written. Nothing says “fall” quite like a cozy hobbit-hole, eating delicious food all day, and going on magical and exciting quests with friends old and new. Tolkien paints a picture of tranquility and enchantment in a way that makes him one of fantasy's most renowned storytellers.
“The Call of the Wild” by Jack London
If the image that comes to mind when you hear the word “fall” is a forest of trees changing color, this is the novel for you. “The Call of the Wild” is representative of Jack London’s remarkable ability to write about the natural world through the unlikeliest perspectives, and it is a deeply moving and nuanced story that everyone should read at least once in their lives.
