As winter progresses, curling up with a good book on a cold night becomes more and more appealing this February.
Here are some intriguing page-turners that will distract you from the gray weather outside your window.
“Normal People” By Sally Rooney (2018)
Written by Sally Rooney, this novel tells the story of Marianne and Connell, two high schoolers in Sligo, Ireland. It follows their lives as they meet, fall in love and navigate the complexities of being in love.
Rooney is a subtle writer who, in this novel, sneaks in casual commentary on class differences; Marianne comes from a wealthy family, while Connell’s family is working class. Despite these differences, they continue to grow closer, finding they can depend on each other for almost anything.
As each of them experiences hardships, they turn to each other for comfort. Readers will be left with an empty feeling at the end of this book, as both characters go through difficult extenuating circumstances. But, Marianne and Connell also bring a heartwarming element of comfort to the story with their very human flaws and love for each other.
“Little Women” By Louisa May Alcott (1868)
While often considered a holiday novel, this story by Louisa May Alcott is a classic that can be enjoyed year-round. Alcott writes about the four March sisters: Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth who live in Massachusetts during and after the Civil War.
Readers witness their differing personalities unfold: Jo the independent, rebellious writer, Meg the romantic, Amy the ambitious artist and finally, Beth, the gentle soul who is the glue of the family.
Alcott writes about their journey navigating adolescence as they realize that nothing comes close to the adventures and comfort of their childhood. Throughout the chapters of their lives, they face societal expectations while also trying to achieve their dreams. “Little Women” is a heart-warming tale of sisterhood, self-discovery, love, loss and family.
“Gone Girl” By Gillian Flynn (2012)
The crime thriller written by Gillian Flynn is filled with suspense. It follows Nick Dunne, a man who is deemed responsible for the disappearance of his wife.
Dunne appeared to be unhappy when he was forced to move from New York City to small-town Missouri because he lost his job during the Great Recession. However, while all evidence may point to him as the perpetrator, this story has an unexpected twist that will catch all readers off guard.
“Pride and Prejudice” By Jane Austen (1813)
This classic by Jane Austen tells the timeless love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. While the novel may take place during the early 1800s, Elizabeth knows her value does not depend on what a man might think of her.
Austen’s witty insight into human nature will make readers laugh while thinking further about the complexities of navigating love during this time. Austen’s renowned period piece throws readers into the vibrant Regency era where they will enjoy gossip, love affairs, balls, social climbing and more.
“All the Light We Cannot See” By Anthony Doerr (2014)
This book by Anthony Doerr takes place in Nazi-occupied France, and it is a beautifully written narrative about Marie-Laure, a blind girl, and Werner, a smart German boy who escapes military school.
The two are connected through a legendary diamond and communicate through a radio. As the war continues, the two continue to cross paths. Doerr masters the skill of intertwining fantasy with reality, telling the story in a nonlinear form. Readers will be moved by the ethical aspects of the story along with how the nature of war is portrayed.
This collection of books will keep all readers entertained and out of the cold weather this month.
This article was edited by Jessica Ackerman, Marina Zaczkiewicz and Abigail Turner. Copy editing done by Luna Jinks, Olivia Citarella, Emma Brown, Charlie Mennuti, Ella Rousseau and Ariana Kavoossi.
