10 perfect rainy day books

I know, I’m like way too late for Top Ten Tuesday. I haven’t done one of these in awhile, but I love rainy days and spring is upon us at last, so I thought this would be a fun list to do along with other readers of That Artsy Reader Girl (her post, with all other participants is here).

More Top Ten Tuesday posts here.

Here we go.

 

1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Full disclosure: this is one of my favorite books. But what could be better on a rainy day than a classic gothic novel? Wander the weather-beaten moors with me, friend.

 

 

2. The Doll in the Garden by Mary Downing Hahn

Yeah, it’s a children’s book, but hear me out. This book creeped me out as a kid and it creeps me out now. It has a lonely young girl, an old Victorian house, and spooky ghosties—perfect for stormy weather.

 

3. America’s Most Haunted Hotels: Checking in with Uninvited Guests by Jamie Davis Whitmer

Spooky. Ghosties.

 

 

4. Boar Island by Nevada Barr

This is, sadly, the only book by Nevada Barr I’ve ever been able to get into, despite loving national parks and general outdoorsy-ness. Her Anna Pigeon series boasts a female lead and each is set at a national park. Anyway, Boar Island is set, yes, at an island outside Acadia National Park in Maine and features stormy waters and a stalker. I found it quick-paced enough to hold my attention. For some reason, other Anna Pigeon books just don’t feel that way to me and I haven’t been able to get through any others. If you have read-alike recommendations for me, I’m all ears!

5. The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery

In my opinion, a rainy day is the perfect weather in which to contemplate the depths of consciousness.

 

6. A House in Fez: Building a Life in the Ancient Heart of Morocco by Suzanna Clarke

Tired of the rain? Too gloomy for you? Not in the mood for introspection? I recommend traveling to a very desert-y place to combat the blues. This is a book Ben bought for me one Christmas. It is a dream of mine to go to Morocco. I haven’t made it yet, but I plan to.

7. Every Body Yoga: Let Go of Fear. Get On the Mat. Love Your Body. by Jessamyn Stanley

A free afternoon to read? Focus on you.

 

8. London in Chains: An English Civil War Novel by Gillian Bradshaw

Broody, England-y, and if you like it, this is a series. Features a female protagonist who defies social norms by reading and getting involved with a printing press.

 

9. Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron with Bret Witter

This book may have the same effect on you as a cozy mystery. It’s heartwarming and gentle, but also tells the story of a town library and has a fun cast of characters. Perfect for a cozy reading session curled up on the couch.

10. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

You didn’t think I could get through a rainy day list, in the springtime no less, without mentioning The Secret Garden, hmm? Dirt. Rain. Moors. Perfection.

 

 

In conclusion, I feel that just about any book is good on a rainy day. The best thing about it is that you’ve made some time for reading.