The Reading List is a weekly newsletter that sends out a new list of book recommendations every Sunday, plus, a monthly guide on how to enrich your reading life.
“Reading is a form of escape, but it is also a way of making contact with the world.”
— Julian Barnes
Reading seasonally has become one of my favourite ways to plan what I read. There really is something special about reading a book that echoes the world around you. I often find that certain genres, settings and storylines naturally lend themselves to different times of the year. It has become another way for me to mark the passing of the year, paying attention to the changing seasons through the books I choose. Reading a Russian classic during the depths of winter or a book about the natural world as everything begins to bloom in spring just seems to enhance the atmosphere of the story.
The changing seasons become part of the reading experience, helping me feel more connected to both the book and the season itself. It's a simple habit, but one that has completely elevated my reading experience. Plus, with an ever-growing TBR and so many incredible books to choose from, this way of planning gives me a simple and enjoyable way to narrow down what I’m reading next.
I also love that reading seasonally encourages me to embrace each part of the year. Instead of wishing away the colder months or feeling like the seasons blur into one another, I find myself leaning into what makes each season unique.
Of course, there's no right or wrong way to choose your next read, but if you've ever felt overwhelmed by your TBR or simply want to make your reading feel a little more immersive, reading with the seasons might be worth trying. In this post, I'll be sharing the kinds of books I reach for throughout the year and why I think they suit each season so well.
Russian Classics — There’s something about the long winters and philosophical nature of many Russian novels that makes them feel inseparable from the season.
Atmospheric Thrillers — Reading about unforgiving, isolated settings on a dark evening naturally heightens the tension, making thrillers feel even more immersive during winter.
Big Books — Winter always feels like the right time to commit to longer books. The slower pace of the season and the motivation that comes with a new year make it easier to dedicate yourself to something you've been putting off.
Philosophical and Introspective Fiction — The colder months always feel particularly apt for slower, more reflective reading, making it the ideal time for books that ask bigger questions.
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