The Bookmark: Great Fall Book Recommendations

By SUSAN CRUTCHFIELD, Newnan Carnegie Library Director

Fall is my favorite time of year! The weather is crisp, beautiful and things start getting cozy. It is also perfect reading weather My favorite fall activity is to sit in front of a bonfire with a delicious cup of tea or hot chocolate. 

These are some of my fall book recommendations.

Ready or Not by Cara Bastone

First, the cover of this book is so beautiful with the fall vibes. This is a romance book that also deals a lot with family issues. It is a moving story of a young woman who becomes unexpectedly pregnant and the found family who rallies around her.   

Warm Hands of Ghosts by Katherine Arden 

I would describe this book as historical fiction with magical realism. This book is set during World War I. We have so many World War II books, so I try to seek out books from the First War. I like how this switched back and forth between the brother and sister point of view. This was a grimy war-torn world with the magical/ghostly elements fitting in well. This was a beautifully written book.

Funny Feelings by Tarah DeWitt

This is another book that has a terrific fall cover. This book is set in the world of standup comedy. It is about a comedian, Farley, and her manager, Meyer. This was a delightful book. I loved how Farley and Meyer’s story was set in the world of comedy. I think the author did a great job with not including too much of the comedy set but just enough information, so we see Farley is funny. Sometimes authors make the mistake of including too many comedy routines that are not funny. I loved the slow burn and the friendship. 

Not the Witch You Wed by April Asher

You can’t talk about fall books without having a book about witches I LOVED this witchy and supernatural tale. I really appreciate a book where all the magic is out in the open because magical secrecy can feel like a tired plot line. Violet and Linc are a delightful couple, and I liked all the supporting characters in this book as well.  

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

I would be remiss if I didn’t discuss my favorite classic book. I read this one every three to four years. I usually start it in the fall and read through the winter. I see something new every time I read this book. I still remember the first time I was introduced to this book. I was six or seven years old, and my grandma got me a big box of these condensed, illustrated, chunky books for kids. Pip has a very unhappy life as he struggles to find a higher place in the world. He is constantly fighting against his better nature. I love this book so much!

I hope you make it to the Carnegie this fall to check out some of these wonderful books. Also, make sure to visit our website to see all the wonderful programs and events we have this fall! www.newnancarnegie.com