Not to state the obvious or anything, but these are trying times. Standing up for what’s right, making your voice heard, and thoughtful allyship are all wonderful and important things to practice.
And sometimes you also need to curl up in a ball and take care of yourself. Here are some comfort read suggestions if that’s where you’re at right now.
The Summer Book by Tove Jansson
Translated by Thomas Teal
Okay, so it’s not summer anymore. That doesn’t mean that you can’t find solace in the pages of Tove Jansson’s quietly exquisite book about an elderly artist and her young granddaughter spending the summer together on a tiny island off the coast of Finland. The book is full of heart and wisdom.
Anything by L M. Montgomery
As you can see from my photo, my copies of L. M. Montgomery books are well-worn indeed. Her books are full of beautiful nature descriptions, comforting and beloved homes that are full of kind people, and fairy tale endings.
A little light fantasy:
Night Watch by Terry Pratchett; The Invisible Library series by Genevieve Cogman
Terry Pratchett’s particular brand of comic fantasy is ideal for comfort reading. If you are intimidated by his vast Discworld bibilography, Night Watch is a great entry point.
The Invisible Library series is another very fun read, featuring dragons, fae, and librarians who all have their own powers, and trip their ways casually between alternate worlds.
A classic romance:
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; Attachments by Rainbow Rowell; The Chai Factor by Farah Heron
Sometimes you just want the feel-good vibes of a romance, with a little humour thrown in for good measure. These books hit the spot.
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto
Translated by Megan Backus
An unusual and deftly-told story about love, grief, food, and new beginnings. Highly, HIGHLY recommended—I love this book and reread it often.
A good old-fashioned mystery:
Anything by Dorothy L. Sayers, Margery Allingham, Josephine Tey, Ngaio Marsh, Sarah Caudwell, Nancy Spain, Elisabeth Sanxay Holding, or Sujata Massey.
Last but not least, my favourite go-to comfort read: a good mystery. All of these authors can be counted on for an engaging story, sparkling dialogue, and a satisfying ending.
Take care of yourselves, and happy reading. ❤
topazliterary.com 