I’m Booked: My Fall To-Read List

Written by Ally Abruscato. Graphic by Anna Porter.

I’ll admit that my reading schedule fell short of my expectations over the summer. But what better time to pick up the pace than during a dark academia fall? In my head, the Jen Library is an ivy-covered stone building in the middle of the English country side. As I prepare for this autumnal daydream, here are the books patiently awaiting my attention. 

“Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney 

Ever since September 24th, “Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney has been a constant sight on my Instagram feed. As soon as I get my hands on it, I’m sure I’ll devour this book like I have the rest of Rooney’s writing. 

“The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires” by Grady Hendrix 

I’ve added “The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires” as an ode to our sister city, Charleston, where this book is set. I think the title tells me everything else I need to know about this spooky read.  

“Outliers: The Story of Success” by Malcom Gladwell 

This recommendation comes from our very own District staff! This non-fiction book about high achievers was described to me as an absolute must-read. 

“The Cemetery of Untold Stories” by Julia Alvarez 

Ever since reading “In the Time of the Butterflies,” Julia Alvarez has been one of my favorite authors. When her new book came out, it arrived in my mailbox a few days later thanks to my amazing mother. 

“Absolution” by Alice McDermott 

I bought a signed version of this book over the summer and have been dying to read it ever since. “Absolution” is one of few books that spotlights women’s roles in the Vietnam War. 

“Blue Light Hours” by Bruna Dantas Lobtato 

A New England fall setting? Count me in! “Blue Light Hours” might be one of my most anticipated reads as it covers a parental relationship as the daughter Skypes her Brazilian mother from her new college home in Vermont. 

“11/22/63” by Stephen King 

In honor of fall, I figured I’d throw in a Stephen King book, even if it is one of his less scary options. “11/22/63” is a science fiction story about a time traveler attempting to stop the assasination of President Kennedy. 

“Blue Sisters” by Coco Mellors 

I heard one comparison between “Blue Sisters” and “Little Women” and immediately added it to my list. The story takes place as three estranged sisters reunite following the death of their fourth sister. 

“Anita de Monte Laughs Last” by  Xóchitl González

Years after a rising artist’s death is forgotten, a young art history student uncovers the past while simultaneously rising in the social ranks. I don’t know much else about “Anita de Monte Laughs Last,” besides the fact that I want to read it. 

“The Guest List” by Lucy Folley 

I’m probably a little behind on adding “The Guest List” to my to-read pile, but better late than never! There’s no better time to read a mystery book than October.

I’ll be back soon with another book review, but until then, I’m Booked.