Russellville Reads: ‘Perfect for fall reading’
There is something about the autumn season that’s perfect for reading. There are so many exciting stories with gorgeous prose that can inspire you to get in the mood for fall. If you’re searching for some autumn literary inspiration, pick up one of these classic books perfect for fall reading:
“To Kill A Mockingbird,” by Harper Lee
This classic is always worth a read, but as the climax is set during the fall, it’s particularly fitting to read during the autumn months. Who could forget Scout’s iconic Halloween costume?
“The Call Of The Wild,” by Jack London
If what you love most about fall is spending time in the great outdoors enjoying nature, Jack London is for you. “The Call of the Wild” is best read on a chilly night, preferably with a dog by your side.
“The Picture Of Dorian Gray,” by Oscar Wilde
If you love Gothic fiction but you’re looking for something shorter, this is the perfect pick for a cool fall night.
“Dracula,” by Bram Stoker
If you love the chills that come with the Halloween season, “Dracula” is a must-read. This classic vampire tale is perfect for fans of fall and horror purists.
“Northanger Abbey,” by Jane Austen
If you love creepy literature but sometimes get a little too caught up in it, Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey is the perfect pick to read this autumn. The novel’s heroine Catherine loves Gothic literature, but she has trouble separating fiction from reality.
“Frankenstein,” by Mary Shelley
This iconic creepy classic is perfect to read on a stormy autumn night. Who’s really the monster here?
“Wuthering Heights,” by Emily Brontë
Gothic literature is a must-read in autumn, and Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights” is a staple of the genre. The dark tale of Heathcliff and Catherine will transport you to a world of creaking windows, old diaries and wild moors. If you can get past the Old English writing, then you’re in for a treat – even if this isn’t your usual cup of tea.
“The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow,” by Washington Irving
The story of Ichabod Crane and the haunted town of Sleepy Hollow makes for a perfect read aloud while sitting around a campfire. The only thing missing is some hot chocolate!
“Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” by Robert Louis Stevenson
Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella, “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” is another dark story perfect for fans of Halloween. The tale of one man and his two personas is a classic that always deserves a read in autumn.
“The Complete Tales and Poems,” by Edgar Allan Poe
Master of horror Edgar Allan Poe was a storyteller whose works just beg to be read on a crisp fall night. Additionally, if you find yourself limited now that school’s back in session, these short stories and poems are perfect if you want to read but don’t have a lot of free time.
“Anne Of Green Gables,” by L.M. Montgomery
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers,” Anne Shirley says in this uplifting classic. If you prefer to enjoy golden autumn days without any hint of creepiness, this hilarious and sweet story is the classic for you. It’s hard not to smile when reading about a character as spunky and awesome as Anne with an “e.”
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: There is nothing better than curling up on the couch with a good book. When there’s a brisk chill in the air, good books just demand to be read. Stop by the library Tuesday through Saturday and “fall” into a good book.
For more information on the library collection and programs call 256-332-1535, check us out on www.russellvillepubliclibrary.com and follow us on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.
Russellville Reads is written by Russellville Public Library director Ashley Cummins.
