There’s more to the reading process than just the books. Although they are the most important factor,  the entire experience of the reading process is really what makes book lovers love to read. From yes, the books, but also the must-have items, trends and aesthetics are what keep readers turning the page. 

When reading a book, especially fiction, the goal is to feel transported or transformed to some degree. They’re meant to inspire, cause joy (or pain) and allow for a degree of escapism. 

The Bookmark Edition is all about offering the occasional review mixed in with recommendations, guides, and all things bookish!

Chapter 1: A Reader’s Fall Guide

As the leaves develop from shades of green to a variety of warming colors, readers everywhere are beginning to pile up on their must reads for the season.

This “chapter” will contain all must-haves for the upcoming season ranging from book and genre recommendations to seasonal book-to-movie adaptations. It’s a guide as well as a collection of book-related items to set the  mood. 

Book Recommendations

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

There’s a very popular uptick in the “dark academia” aesthetic during this time of year. And because of that, it was nearly impossible for me to not mention a book written in that style.

Tartt’s “The Secret History” fits perfectly within the dark academia trend and aesthetic. From winning awards to trending on TikTok, this novel stays highly recommended and consistently popular among the book-obsessed community.

It is a psychological thriller set at a prestigious New England college,following an eccentric group of friends that try to maintain an academic and social standard of their lives. Which, in turn, leads to some questionable, obsessive, and divisive choices.

For me, I enjoy the book overall. It was at times a little pretentious and dense, but it did perfectly encapsulate the academia-fueled autumn vibes you may be looking for. One thing I really enjoyedwas that the author actually based it off her own friend group from college — well hopefully not all of it. 

Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

If you’re looking for something a little more warm and cozy, “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” might be your speed.

Translated from Japanese, this quick read involves a coffee shop and the future. It is a story of magic, endearing relationships, love and sometimes tragedy. The premise is a small Tokyo cafe that allows its patrons the chance to travel to the past. But there are rules to going back and it must be done  before the coffee gets cold.

Although this story isn’t dark or set in autumn, it doesprovide those warm and cozy fall feelings. This book isn’t necessarily sad, but will most definitely make you cry. 

Read in Style

If you are having trouble getting in the mood to read or just want to embrace the chilly season, I have just the cure. 

First, get comfortable. Grab a blanket, a hot drink and maybe light a candle. Setting a calming mood is one of the best ways to ensure you can fully immerse yourself in your reading. Not only does it benefit your reading stamina, but it can also boost your overall mood and mental health. 

Secondly, don’t limit yourself to one reading location. Although it may be the most comfortable to just lie in bed (which is totally okay to do), it can also benefit to get outside. What better way to experience fall reading than to actually do it among the changing leaves?

Sick of Reading? Try these Bookish Movies

If it isn’t already obvious, I love reading. But even the most adamant bookworm needs a break from time to time. Putting aside the infamous movie v. book debate, I think we can all appreciate some of these fall-ish book-to-movie adaptations. 

Little Women (2019)

I don’t think I’ll ever be able to adequately explain my love for this movie. Although this novel has been adapted a few times, the 2019 version has to reign supreme in my opinion. The film goes through all four seasons, but still manages to give the warmth and color associated with autumn.

Practical Magic (1998)

This one may be slightly more inconspicuous, as many aren’t aware of its book companion. However, it is one of my all time favorites, even if the movie is technically more popular than the book. It does contain some heavier topics, but still remains a light hearted and witchy book-to-movie favorite. 

The autumn season is one of the best times to enjoy the reading experience. All the warm, cozy and sometimes spooky feelscan become a booklover’s dream. If you feel a reading slump  or just need a little inspiration, following a reader’s guide (or making your own) can really get you in the right headspace to sit down and start your next read.