For many book lovers, fall is the best time of year to cozy up with a good book. Whether you are an avid reader or interested in light reading, we’ve compiled a list of the best autumnal books.
“Reading is fun for me and I really like it during fall because it’s usually the perfect weather to stay inside and make a hot drink and get into a book…I get really motivated to read during fall,” said Claire Yung (‘26).
Although it’s not an exact science, some books simply feel like fall. Whether it deals with the supernatural or gothic themes, certain books evoke a sense of nostalgia that compliments the season.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
This book follows the Crain family as they confront their past and the chilling legacy of Hill House. Blending psychological tension with eerie atmospheres, the novel blurs the boundaries between reality and the supernatural. Jackson crafts a haunting narrative perfect for the autumn.
“Every fall I reread [this book]. I thought it was the perfect book for fall because it’s genuinely scary and has supernatural elements which fits with Halloween,” said Arcadia Clarke (‘26).
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio
This standalone is about a group of elite drama students at an exclusive arts conservatory. The ambitious thespians become entangled in a web of rivalry, betrayal, and murder. With a setting of theatricality and dark intrigue, the narrative explores the complexities of friendship and the consequences of ambition.
“If We Were Villains is based on Shakespeare plays and it’s fast paced and interesting and you really get attached to the characters. It doesn’t take a while to get into, which is nice,” said Claire Yung (‘26).
The Crucible by Arthur Miller
Although part of curriculum reading, The Crucible draws an audience for its exploration of the infamous witch trials. The play follows a group of young girls who falsely accuse several townspeople of witchcraft to deflect attention from their own misdeeds. Dark, profound, and powerful, Miller’s work is the perfect supplement to the spooky season.
“I just read The Crucible with my juniors, so I’ve also been reading about the Salem Witch Trials. I’ve been reading about the history of people being persecuted for witchcraft and stuff in this country, which is really interesting during the holiday,” said Honors Sophomore English Teacher Amy Suto.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
This lengthy novel observes a group of elite college students who study ancient Greek philosophy. Their academic pursuits take a dark turn when their obsession with beauty and transcendence leads to murder.
“ [The book is] set in like, academic settings and it takes place during the fall and winter. I liked The Secret History because it had an interesting plot and was thought provoking,” said Yung.
Additionally, beloved classics such as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Bram Stoker’s Dracula are perennial favorites. These books are both interesting and important in shaping both pop culture and the spooky season we know and love. Check out any of these books for a special autumn read!
