Top Books to Read This Fall
As the weather cools down and the leaves start to turn, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good book. Fall is the perfect season to dive into a new literary adventure—whether you’re cozying up by the fire, enjoying the crisp air on a park bench, or settling into a café with a hot cup of coffee. With so many new releases and timeless classics, deciding what to read can be overwhelming. To help you make the most of the season, here’s a roundup of top books to read this fall.
1. “The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store” by James McBride
James McBride’s latest novel, The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, is a powerful tale set in 1970s Pennsylvania. It revolves around a tight-knit, multicultural neighborhood where secrets and histories are uncovered after the discovery of a skeleton. Known for his masterful storytelling, McBride explores themes of community, race, and survival in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
2. “The Invisible Hour” by Alice Hoffman
Alice Hoffman, known for her magical storytelling, delivers another enchanting novel with The Invisible Hour. This fall release explores the bond between books and life, as a young woman’s life is changed forever by discovering The Scarlet Letter in a forbidden library. Hoffman’s usual blend of magic, romance, and strong characters makes this the perfect cozy read for a fall afternoon.
3. “The Vaster Wilds” by Lauren Groff
In The Vaster Wilds, Lauren Groff takes readers back to colonial America, where a young servant escapes into the wilderness, fleeing a settlement devastated by disease. Groff’s beautiful prose captures the raw brutality and beauty of nature, as well as the resilience of the human spirit. The novel is both a survival story and a meditation on humanity’s relationship with nature.
4. “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
If you’re in the mood for something warm and uplifting, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heartwarming story about found family, acceptance, and love. The novel follows Linus Baker, a caseworker who inspects orphanages for magical children. When he’s sent to a remote island to evaluate a home full of unique children, his life changes in unexpected ways. Klune’s blend of whimsy and emotional depth makes this a feel-good read with plenty of autumn charm.
5. “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner
For readers looking for something more reflective and personal, Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner is a must-read. This bestselling memoir is a poignant exploration of grief, culture, and family. Known as the lead singer of Japanese Breakfast, Zauner reflects on her Korean heritage and her complicated relationship with her mother, particularly after her mother’s passing. It’s a beautifully written, emotionally charged narrative that will resonate with anyone who’s navigated loss and identity.
6. “The September House” by Carissa Orlando
For those who enjoy a bit of spookiness with their autumn reads, The September House by Carissa Orlando is the perfect ghost story for fall. The novel follows Margaret, who moves into a haunted Victorian house that becomes more terrifying each September. While her husband leaves, Margaret is determined to stay and survive the horrors that come with the house. This gripping novel blends humor, horror, and psychological depth, making it a unique and engaging read.
7. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library is a bestseller for a reason. The novel follows Nora Seed, who, after feeling disillusioned with life, finds herself in a mystical library between life and death. Each book on the shelf represents a different version of her life, based on the choices she could have made. Nora embarks on a journey of self-discovery and begins to realize the importance of small decisions and the value of the life she already has.
8. “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin
Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a moving exploration of creativity, friendship, and the passage of time. The novel follows two friends, Sam and Sadie, who collaborate on building video games and grow through their shared passion. Spanning decades, their relationship is filled with ups and downs, love, betrayal, and healing. It’s a beautiful meditation on life’s complexities and the power of collaboration.
9. “The Marriage Portrait” by Maggie O’Farrell
Following the success of her bestseller Hamnet, Maggie O’Farrell returns with The Marriage Portrait, a historical novel set in Renaissance Italy. The story centers on young Lucrezia de’ Medici, thrust into a politically motivated marriage and navigating the dangerous waters of court life. With O’Farrell’s vivid storytelling and masterful historical detail, the novel is both suspenseful and beautifully rendered.
10. “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times” by Michelle Obama
In her latest book, The Light We Carry, former First Lady Michelle Obama shares practical wisdom and personal reflections on navigating difficult times. Through stories and advice, she offers strategies for staying hopeful, resilient, and connected, even when faced with uncertainty. Her down-to-earth writing and insightful perspective make this a comforting and inspiring read.
As fall settles in and the days grow shorter, there’s no better time to get lost in a great book. Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming tales, thrilling ghost stories, or thought-provoking memoirs, these top reads will offer you hours of enjoyment and reflection this autumn. So, grab your favorite blanket, brew some hot tea, and dive into one (or all!) of these fantastic reads this fall.
