The Ultimate List of Books About Books: 50+ Favorites
If you are a lover of books, then you probably share our joy of books about books. There is just something about reading about books while reading a book that makes the heart sing.
Below you will find dozens of books featuring book clubs, libraries, librarians, bookstores, or just books where a story or novel plays a central role in the plot.
We’ve read dozens of these kinds of books, so we’ve tried to separate them by category and even linked some to further lists with more options on them. You’ll find every kind of book your book-loving heart desires.
*The books about books post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you.
Best New Books About Books
Jane and Dan at the End of the World
Author: Colleen Oakley
Year: 2025
Genre: Fiction
More info: A Most Anticipated Book of 2025
Age Range:16+
Plot
Jane and Dan have been married for 19 years but their marriage is failing. Jane is pretty sure Dan is cheating on her as well. When the two go out for dinner at an upscale restaurant, they are taken hostage by a climate activist group.
The strangest part is that everything the terrorists do is directly out of Jane’s failed book which sold less than 200 copies. Only she and Dan know what is going to happen next so it is up to them to save everyone.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is such an interesting look at marriage while being hilarious at the same time. I laughed out loud at certain moments. It is also a look at parenthood and the changes that come as we get older and our kids get older as well.
Find this book in: Books About Books / March 2025 Book Releases
Books about Famous Writers
Stories about famous writers let us learn about what makes some of our favorite writers tick, what inspires them, and how much of their real lives are in their novels.
We’ve selected our favorites below, but for more look at our post on books about famous writers.
Hamnet
Author: Maggie O’Farrell
Year: 2020
Genre: Literary Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:
Plot
This is the story of Shakespeare’s life, family, and extraordinary wife during the time of the plague. Shakespeare himself is never actually mentioned by name in this extraordinary and heartbreaking book that was so hard to put down.
Trigger Warnings
Child Death
Why Jackie loves it
I had this book on my TBR for so long and I am so happy that I finally had a chance to read it. I know why it made so many lists of top books for 2020. And if you are looking for biographical novels about writers, this one is a must-read.
Adaptation Information
Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal are set to star in the movie adaptation of this bestseller. Chloé Zhao is going to direct it!
Find this book in: Biographical Fiction Novels / Books About Books / Books Becoming Movies
The Mystery of Mrs. Christie
Author: Marie Benedict
Year: 2020
Genre: Historical Mystery
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Marie Benedict is the master of bringing women back to life in her historical fiction novels. The Mystery of Mrs. Christie is my favorite to date and I found it hard to put down. In December 1926, Agatha Christie went missing for 11 days. She re-emerged as mysteriously as she disappeared and more questions than answers persist.
Why Jackie loves it
Benedict does a wonderful job of building the mystery using her brilliant imagination and bringing us into the world of Agatha Christie. It is the perfect blend of fiction and mystery and is an absolute delight.
Find this book in: Historical Mystery Books / Books about Writers / Books About Books / Biographical Fiction Novel / 1920s Novels
The Bookseller’s Secret
Author: Michelle Gable
Year: 2007
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: NY Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range:16+
Plot
This dual-timeline historical fiction novel is set in both WWII London, where we see a floundering Nancy Mitford as a bookseller, getting inspired to write The Pursuit of Happiness, and the present day, where another floundering writer is looking to Mitford for inspiration.
Trigger Warnings
Infidelity
Why Kirsten loves it
Nancy is the character that shines in this pick from WWII books and I love that she’s such a dynamic force. This is a great pick in novels about writers.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Best Books About WWII / Ultimate List of Books / Books About Writers
Bronte’s Mistress by Finola Austin
I’m a sucker for the classics, but I don’t know much about the authors of the classics I love. Of course, I knew of the Bronte sisters, but I had no idea that they had a brother or that he was a naughty one 😉. How could i not read this pick from novels about writers?
This story was fascinating to me because while I don’t condone modern-day infidelity, I understand how women back in the day had limited options. I loved Lydia and her (selfish) views of the world around her and I felt how hard it must be to be a woman in historic times.
Her antics were utterly entertaining as were the antics of her children. I was rooting for her the entire time, even when I wanted to slap her and tell her to come to her senses.
Caroline: The Little House Revisited by Sarah Miller
I read Little House on the Prairie for the first time earlier this year mostly because I wanted the background for this exact book. The entire I was reading the original series, I found myself wondering about the choices the parents were making.
I wanted to know why certain things were being done and I finally got my answers in Sarah Miller’s retelling of the story. I didn’t love Little House, but I ADORED Caroline. This book is a must read if you are looking for books about books.
Books about Fictional Writers
Plot
Lanie is an editor and is given the chance to work with her idol- THE Noa Callaway. Noa is late on her next manuscript and Lanie has to help her with her writer’s block. That shouldn’t be a problem- even if nobody has met Noa in person.
Why Jackie loves it
What is there not to love about this book? This romance was so much fun to read. Any book about books gets extra points and this one check even more boxes with the light and fun story that was easy to read.
Find this book in: Celebrity Romance Books / Books About Books / Ultimate List of Romances / Beach Reads 2022 / Romance Books About Books
Seven Days in June
Author: Tia Williams
Year: 2021
Genre: Romance
More info: June 2021 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
The latest Reese’s Book Club pick was quite a unique read. It was billed as a romance but that doesn’t do this novel justice. Yes, there are some steamy scenes, but it also deals with childhood trauma, drug addiction, racial issues, and single motherhood.
Eva Mercy is a single mom and a bestselling author of Erotica. Shane Hall is an award-winning novelist. The two meet at a literary event and sparks fly, but what nobody knows is that the two met years ago and spent a week together. Since that time, their novels have been declarations of love for each other.
Trigger Warnings
Trauma, addiction
Why Kirsten loves it
It was much heavier than I expected especially with a second chance romance novel. If you are looking for something that will make you think, this is the right pick for you from our list of books about books.
Why Jackie likes it
This is such a complex and deep second-chance romance. The years have been difficult for these two and they carry a lot of baggage.
Find this book in: Books About Books Books / Becoming Movies in 2024 / Second Chance Romance Books / Romance Books About Books / Reese Witherspoon 2021
Beach Read
Author: Emily Henry
Year: 2020
Genre: Romance
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
January is a romance writer who no longer believes in love. Until she was 28, she led an idyllic life filled with the ideas of perfect love.
Augustus Everett is a literary fiction writer who has never believed in love. They could not be more different. When they find themselves living next door to each other they decide to help each other overcome their writer’s block by challenging each other to a writer’s duel.
Trigger Warning
Death of a parent, sexual content
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the best romance books I have read in a long time. What could be better than a romance about writers? I love Emily Henry’s writing and loved this book.
Find this book in: Enemies-to-Lovers Romance Books / Grumpy Sunshine Romance / Emily Henry Books / Books About Books / Best Beach Reads / Romance Books About Books
Hell of a Book by Jason Mott
July 2021 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
There are so many layers to this book that is a book about a fictional author and his book “Hell of a Book”. I can see why Jenna chose this book as her July 2021 pick.
The novel tells the story of Soot- a young black boy in a rural town. As we hear the story of Soot we also have the author talking to “The Kid”, a young black boy who may of may not be invisible.
The description of the book does not do it justice. It is a powerful and poignant commentary on family, children, and the lengths that parents will go to in order to protect their black children. This book is haunting
Less by Andrew Greer
More about a writer than a book, specifically, this Pulitzer Prize-winning contemporary fiction LGBTQ book is full of heart. When Andrew Less gets an invitation to his ex-boyfriend’s wedding and his publisher drops his next book option, he decides to accept every literary event invitation for a year.
As he travels around the world, we are left rooting for him to sort out his life and begin again. This is a book about books you will not want to miss.
Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows
Author: Balli Kaur Jaswal
Year: 2018
Genre: Fiction
More info: March 2018 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Looking for a laugh-out-loud contemporary fiction book? This novel is about an Indian woman trying to marry her modern English identity with her parents’ conservative Indian values.
She takes up teaching a writing course for widows in her community and she learns so much about herself and them in the process. Between each chapter are hysterical and sometimes raunchy tales written by the widows in her class. I dare you not to smile while reading this book about books.
Why Kirsten loves it
This was such a unique concept for a book. It is one of the first books that I have read that celebrated older women as protagonists. This is the OG nod to older women.
Why Jackie loves it
I could not stop laughing while reading this book. The characters jump off the page and will make you smile!
Find this book in: Best Reese Witherspoon Books / The Ultimate List of Books About Books / Reese Witherspoon 2018
Books about Libraries
Libraries are the Mecca for book
The Lions of Fifth Avenue
Author: Fiona Davis
Year: 2020
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: August 2020 Good Morning America Book Club Pick, New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Laura is the wife of the NYPL’s superintendent and lives in an apartment within the historic institution. While already a mother, she is looking for more out of life and enrolls in journalism school. But when she’s out learning more about the world, she becomes more involved in the burgeoning women’s suffragette movement. Soon, she needs to determine where her loyalties lie.
In 1993, her granddaughter, Sadie is curious about her famous grandmother – particularly after she becomes a curator at the NYPL, solidifying her family legacy at the storied institution. When items from her exhibits go missing, she teams up with a private security expert to figure out who is behind the theft. But she’s not expecting the secrets to involve her family.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide
Why Kirsten loves it
This historical fiction novel about the New York Public Library is a dual-timeline mystery about rare books going missing from the library’s collection. Fiona Davis’s signature style had me basking in the vivid descriptions, making me feel as if I were standing inside the famed library. I adored the Gilded Age sections but was less enthralled by the present-day timeline.
Find this book in: Books About Libraries / Gilded Age Books / Books About Books
The Paris Library
Author: Janet Skesklien Charles
Year: 2021
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller, Washington Post Bestseller, USA TODAY bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
In 1939, Odile is working at The American Library in Paris. There, she and her fellow librarians do everything in their power to try to save their patrons. But when the war is over, she faces a betrayal she didn’t anticipate.
In 1983 Montana, Lily is looking for an adventure which she finds whileinvetigating her neighbor’s past. But she was not expecting a dark secret to connect the two of them!
Trigger Warnings
Antisemitism, War
Why Kirsten loves it
WWII books felt a little been-there, done-that to me recently but this book has me back to loving the sub-genre. What makes this story different is the setting – The American Library in Paris. I loved hearing about the librarians and how they tried to help their Jewish subscribers. The story sucked me and had me thinking about the war in a new light.
Find this book in: Books Set in Paris / Books Set in France / Books About WWII / Books About Books / Books About Libraries
Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books
Author: Kirsten Miller
Year: 2024
Genre: Fiction
More info:
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Beverly Underwood is on the school board and Lulu Dean, her arch nemesis, has made it her mission to rid the public library of inappropriate books. Instead, she creates her lending library filled with books that she feels are more appropriate.
However, she does not know that someone has replaced the books inside the dust jacket with literary classics, witch books, LGBTQ+ romances, and more. The truth comes out when Beverly and Lulu are running against each other for the town Mayor.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a book that deals with so many issues all through the lens of books. It is hilarious and laugh out loud without feeling empty. I wanted to yell and cheer for the characters. It is a wonderful must-read book.
Find this book in: Books About Books / Best New Fiction Books of 2024
A Kind of Paradise by Amy Rebecca Tan
This is
The story revolves around Jaime, who is being punished with community service hours at the library for the summer after she did something wrong in school. Jaime is reluctant to volunteer at first but quickly grows to love the staff and regulars at the library. I adored this charming tale and so did my kids.
Check out our post: Ultimate Feel Good Books to Brighten Your Day!
Ban This Book by Alan Gratz
This is technically a middle-grade read. The heroine of this story is a girl whose favorite book was just banned from her school library. She starts her own locker library filled with more banned books from the school’s library.
As she stands up for her right to read, she challenges adults in her community and learns about the power of books to bring everyone together.
Books about Librarians
Sometimes the librarians behind the desk are the best part of the library. That’s why we chose our favorite books about librarians below and rounded up a few more in this post.
The Librarian of Auschwitz
Author: Antonia Itrube
Year: 2017
Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction
Age Range: 8 – 12
Plot
This is based on the story of Dita Kraus who was a 14-year-old girl when she went to Auschwitz. She worked as the “librarian” in the children’s block. The book gives an in-depth look at the day-to-day survival of people in the camp and is ultimately about bravery and real-life heroes.
Trigger Warnings
Antisemitism, Genocide
Why Jackie loves it
The book is difficult to read because of the subject matter. The librarian in this book is completely unique because of her circumstances and age. I love that this powerful story is geared toward middle-grade readers; however, adult readers will love this books as well..
Find this book in: Books About Books / WWII Books for Kids / Books About The Holocaust
The Library of Lost and Found
Author: Phaedra Patrick
Year: 2019
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Age Range: 16+
Plot
When librarian Martha Storm finds a book of fairytales on her doorstep, she is intrigued so she opens it up. When she reads the dedication written to her by her grandmother who had died three years before the inscription, she is inspired to find answers. Martha uncovers secrets in her past that will change her life as she knows it.
Why Jackie loves it
This was such a fun read. It is part fiction and part mystery as Martha follows clues to her past. It was such an easy and quick book to read; I loved it.
Find this book in: Books About Libraries / Books About Books
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murphy
This fictionalized version of Belle de Costa Greene was wonderful, I’m so glad it was a GMA pick!
Greene was J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian and later the librarian for his heir. She was also a black woman passing as white. She had to keep her roots hidden in order to hold her job, but I’m glad her real truth is being told now.
For more books set in libraries, check out this list.
The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth
The good sister is a psychological thriller that will keep you on your toes until the very end. Fern and Rose are twins who have always had each other. Rose is the responsible one who has always looked out for Fern.
Fern has trouble reading social situations, doesn’t like loud noises and makes dangerous mistakes all the time.
Rose’s most important job was protecting Fern from their crazy mother. When Fern decides to have a baby for Rose, secrets start to come out. This one will keep you guessing until the end and even then, you’ll be thinking about this book.
Thank you Libro.fm for my copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Books about Traveling Libraries and Bookstores
The Bookshop on the Corner
Author: Jenny Colgan
Year: 2016
Genre: Fiction
More info: The Bookshop on the Corner #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This contemporary fiction book was the first book I read by Jenny Colgan and is different from her others. It is not centered around food but rather, books.
When Nina, a librarian, finds herself without a job, she embarks on a journey with a mobile bookshop in Scotland. There is nothing not to love in this sweet and cozy book.
Why Kirsten loves it
If you are ever in a reading slump, please pick up this story! I felt like I was with Nina puttering around the lanes of Scotland in her bookmobile. The romance in the story was charming as well! This remains my favorite Jenny Colgan story.
Find this book in: The Best Jenny Colgan Books Ranked / Novels About Scotland / Books About Books / Books about Bookstores / British Books
The Giver of Stars
Author: Jojo Moyes
Year: 2019
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: November 2019 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
British-born Alice is finding life in rural Kentucky challenging, so she signs up to be a traveling librarian. Soon, Alice is working with the program runner, Margery, and 3 other women to deliver books on horseback to some of the most isolated and impoverished families in their community.
Forced to buck norms, these women are warriors for those in need despite male interference. In spite of all odds, these heroic women stopped at nothing to help those in need get the information they deserved.
Trigger Warnings
Domestic Abuse, Racism
Why Kirsten loves it
I’m not usually a Jojo Moyes reader, but this story about a mobile library caught my eye. I’m so glad I ended up reading it because it was wonderful! I had no idea that women used to travel by horseback to deliver books in the Appalachian mountains.
These librarians were utterly badass as they thumbed their noses at societal norms for the betterment of their community. Each woman’s story was woven together in a tapestry of love, friendship, and sisterhood.
Find this book in: Books About Poverty / Books About Librarians / Books About Books / Reese Witherspoon 2019
Aria’s Travelling Book Shop by Rebecca Raisin
This is the second book that I read by Rebecca Raisin and I adored Rosie’s Traveling Tea Shop.
This is a cute book centered around Aria who has a romance bookshop. Aria began van life when her husband became sick and continued after he had passed away.
This is the story of Aria’s search for her happy ending. I enjoyed this quick and easy read. It’s perfect for our list of books about traveling libraries.
Fantasy Books About Books
Plot
Cassie works in a bookstore in NYC. When one of her favorite customers dies, she finds the book he was reading with an inscription leaving it to her. It’s the Book of Doors which allows Cassie to open any door and go anywhere she wants to – London, Paris, or any door she can picture in her head.
Soon, she is approached by a stranger named Drummond Fox, a librarian for a collection of books just like Cassie’s telling her she’s in danger. People have searched for The Book of Doors for years and will do anything to get their hands on it.
Now, Cassie finds herself entwined in a dangerous game of cat and mouse as she tries to stay alive and keep the Book of Doors away from those who want it for nefarious purposes. #gifted
Trigger Warnings
Death
Why Jackie loves it
OMG. I did not know what to expect when I picked up this book. It is unlike anything I had ever read and I loved every minute of the story! I loved I had to think about how the doors would work and how the story comes together in the end.
Find this book in: Books About Books / Magical Realism Books to Read Now / Books About Bookstores / Summer Reads 2024 / Best New Fantasy Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels
The Librarian
Author: Christy Sloat
Year: 2017
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: The Librarian Chronicles #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
When Emme’s grandmother dies, she agrees to take over Gram’s library despite plans to head to college abroad. When she opens a book from Gra’s special collection, she finds herself face to face with Jack Ridgewell in 1892 England. Emme is part of an elite group of women who can travel to the past through books.
Why Jackie loves it
This is reminded me of Outlander! This brings a whole new meaning to Book Boyfriend. You’ll love this fantasy book about books.
Find this book in: Books About Librarians / Books like Outlander / Books About Books
The Midnight Library
Author: Matt Haig
Year: 2020
Genre: Time Travel Fiction
More info: October 2020 GMA Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
The story is about a library with books filled with the infinite possibilities of the lives not lived. Have you ever wondered about a choice, or a path not taken?
When Nora finds herself in the library she is forced to face the choices that she made in her life- relationships, education, profession… The books in the library are endless, each an alternate reality of the endless life choices. Nora has to decide what kind of life she wants to live.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide
Why Jackie loves it
I loved Matt Haig’s last book and was so excited to read this one. This is a magical time travel book and I loved every minute of getting to know Nora’s paths untravelled. Matt Haig is a master of magical realism.
Find this book in: Time Travel Books / Books About Books / Time Loop Books / Magical Realism / Best Books of 2020 / Adult Fantasy Novels / Books About Libraries / Ultimate Beach Reads 2021
The Starless Sea
Author: Erin Morgenstern
Year: 2019
Genre: Fantasy
More info: National Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
How to describe this book that is an ode to storytelling…..it’s a love story to books, a fantasy within a love story within a fairy tale. Zachary finds a hidden book in the library stacks filled with romantic love stories – including one from his own life! Soon he’s transported to a magical world in search of answers.
Why Jackie loves it
To say that I was excited about Erin Morgenstern‘s new book might be the understatement of the year. The writing is beautiful- Erin’s signature style of vivid imagery left me completely captivated. I truly loved every minute of this book. It was pointless to predict the story. So, I let it take me away with the lyrical prose.
Find this book in: Books Like The Night Circus / Full Cast Audiobooks / Magical Realism Books / Books About Librarians
The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix. E Harrow
I’ve never read a book quite like this and I have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised. The writing is subtle, the plot is driven by character and intrigue rather than action-packed suspense. It also has a feel of historical fiction about it. Lovers of this genre may love this book as well.
When January is seven years old, she stumbles upon a door that leads her to a different place. When she is reprimanded for lying about the door, she eventually forgets about it until she finds the book “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” years later. January becomes intrigued and the real story begins.
The story alternates between the story of January and the book. The concept is such a fun way to narrate the plot. At times, the plot moved a little bit slowly as one storyline stopped and another began in the alternating chapters. This is such a unique and wonderful magical realism book and is a must-read from fall books.
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Bradbury’s dystopian classic is one of the most well-known pieces of modern literature but I hadn’t read it! I don’t usually gravitate to books like this, but I’d heard so many people speak about the relevancy of this novel today.
It’s so true. This book offers a grim look at our future if our society continues down the road of this technology obsession we seem to have. If you liked 1984 or The Circle, you will devour this book.
Books about Bookstores
Ever dreamed of owning your own bookstore? Then the books below are for you. For the full list, check out this post of a dozen books about bookstores.
Plot
The story features a floating book apothecary whose owner can meet you and give you a story meant for your soul. When he needs to help his own soul, he sets his boat adrift on the Seine to see where it will take him.
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved every minute of this lovely contemporary fiction book. I read it before Jackie and am so glad that I was the one to recommend this book to her. The entire premise of this book is delightful.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of my favorite books set in Paris and also one of my favorite books ever. The idea of a literary apothecary plays a big part in what Beyond the Bookends aims to do- Match people with books!
Find this book in: Books Set in Paris / Books Set in France / Ultimate List of 35+ Feel-Good Books / The Ultimate List of Books About Books / Best Books in Translation
The Last Bookshop in London: A Novel of World War II by Madeline Martin
Wow, did I love this
Grace’s newfound love of books, the store, and the friends who have become family, become the glue that holds her together during air-raids, blitzes, and nights spent in darkness.
If you love historical fiction check out our Ultimate List of Historical Fiction Books
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
This lovely story about a bookstore and its owner will capture your heart. A.J. Fikry is like a bookstore version of Ove in all the right ways except A.J. is only in his thirties.
The recent death of his wife, bad book sales, and the recent robbery of a rare book is wreaking havoc on his life. But this tale of redemption and unexpected chances has serious soul.
For the Ultimate List of Feel Good Books, check out our post
Mr. Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore: A Novel by Robin Sloane
While this story was not what I was expecting, it was so fun and quirky that I loved it. Clay gets a job in a bookstore that has strange clientele coming at very strange hours.
What is even weirder are the books that they check out rather than buy. I loved the mysterious parts of the book and the character development.
The Bookshop of Yesterdays by Amy Meyerson
Miranda’s uncle dies leaving her a failing bookstore and a scavenger hunt of clues to decipher. What she learns over the course of her summer tracking down clues and trying to save the bookstore will turn her whole world on its head.
I guessed the ending fairly early on, but this mystery book is all about the journey. You can see our interview with Amy here.
Books About Book Clubs
The Bromance Book Club
Author: Lyssa Kay Adams
Year: 2019
Genre: Romance
More info: Bromance Book Club #1
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Gavin, a professional baseball player in Nashville, recently discovered his wife has been faking her orgasms. Determined to do better in the bedroom, and avoid a divorce in the process, Gavin joins a secret club – a book club!
But this book club is unlike any other. It’s comprised of the biggest alpha males in Nashville and they only read romance books. Together, the members of the bromance book club help Gavin win back his wife.
Why Jackie loves it
This book was the perfect break I needed into a world of romance. The idea of a bunch of men getting together to read romance novels to try and improve their relationships is amazing.
Although now that I think of it, maybe this book is a fantasy. This book is a perfect light read that I finished in a day and as far as rom-com novels go, it is a definite must-read!
Find this book in: Sports Romance Novels / Books about Books / Rom-Com Books / Second Chance Romance / Books About Sports / Romance Books About Books
Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society
Author: Mary Ann Shaffner and Annie Barrows
Year: 2008
Genre: Historical Fiction
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This story about the island of Guernsey’s occupation during WWII features a book club that started to deceive the German soldiers. The members of the book club quickly become friends. Can you think of a better book for book clubs than one about a book club?
When a young novelist finds out about their society, she begins a correspondence and eventually visits them to learn more. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society must remain secret for their safety rather than by choice.
Trigger Warnings
War, Death
Why Jackie loves it
The story is told entirely in letters and was recently turned into a Netflix movie! I love this heartwarming novel. If you have not read this cozy book, I highly recommend it to anyone who loved The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner.
Find this book in: Secret Society Books / Books About WWII / Friendship Books / Books About Books / British Books / Epistolary Novels / Books with Food in the Title
Blush by Jamie Brenner
This newest contemporary fiction book from Jamie Brenner is a departure from her previous books which have all been set in coastal towns. This story takes place in a vineyard!
Three generations of women must come together to save the family home and livelihood by having the failing vineyard. This would not be an easy task on any day but, they are also fighting against sexism and the belief that a women’s role is elsewhere.
Vivian, Leah, and Sadie must each confront their pasts and their own demons in order to come together. And if you love fiction books about wine, check out our post.
Lucy’s Little Village Book Club by Emma Davies
This cute story in a one sitting read. The story revolves around the six members of a local library book club. Strangers become friends, lovers, and family — and everyone gets a happy ending! This book is a great palate cleanser.
The Jane Austen Book Club by Karen Joy Fowler
This book (and the movie it inspired) is just plain fun! 5 women and one man get together for 6 months to discuss Jane Austen’s works.
In the process, they find friendships, heartbreak, and love. If you are a fan of Jane Austen, you must read this!
Books about Books
The Plot
Author: Jean Hanff Korelitz
Year: 2021
Genre: Mystery
More info: The Book Series #1, New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Jacob is a formerly successful writer struggling to write his next great novel. His student Evan dies without publishing his own incredible story, so Jacob decides to write it himself to great critical acclaim. But then someone starts threatening to expose him for the theft of the story, launching him into the truth behind the tale he wrote about.
Why Kirsten loves it
What a ride! Jean Hanff Korelitz’s thriller is quite something. It’s one I just adored even if I did figure the big twist out early on. It’s the journey with this book.
Adaptation Information
This is set to be adapted into a TV series for Hulu. Mahershala Ali is set to produce and star in the series.
Find this book in: Books Becoming Movies and TV Shows / Books About Con Artists / Books by Jewish Authors / Best Thriller Books / Books About Books / Mystery and Thriller Novels About Writers
Plot
This magical realism book is narrated by Death. Death tells the story of Liesel, a young girl in Nazi Germany in 1939. Liesel is living with her foster parents and learning to read from stolen books. She also shares these books with the Jewish man who is hiding in her basement.
Trigger Warnings
Death, Antisemitism, War
Why Kirsten loves it
This book is a brilliant, powerful, poignant, and unforgettable look at Nazi Germany. It’s becoming part of many school curriculums for good reason. I’ve never read a story that encapsulates life for ordinary children during this harrowing time in history.
Find this book in: WWII Books for Kids / YA Historical Fiction Books / Books about the Holocaust / Coming-of-age Books for Teens
Plot
This is sweet romance is about Gigi, a bookstore owner who has a massive crush on the audiobook narrator of her favorite book, Zane. While she’s never met him, she’s so drawn to his voice that she just knows they should be together.
When her book club learns that Zane is leading a 10-day tour through England, they buy her a ticket and send her on her way. But Zane is delayed in running the tour, so she strikes up a friendship with the hunky bus driver in the meantime.
Trigger Warnings
Grief
Why Jackie loves it
I love the love triangle set up in this book. I also loved the other tour group passengers and their secondary stories.
Find this book in: Books Set in Cornwall / Books About Books
The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair by Joel Dicker
This book was heavily hyped when it first came out but having just had a baby I was not interested in reading this whopper of a book. Then in 2018, Patrick Dempsey started in a TV mini-series based on the novel. I finally decided to pick it up. The story of Marcus Goldman and his quest to learn what really happened between his mentor Harry Quebert and 15-year-old Nola Kellergan.
Did Harry commit the murder he is now being accused of? Will Marcus write the great American novel? Well, you’ll just have to read it to find out!
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
I adore this gothic story when I read it on vacation a few years back. A young biographer is called to help a reclusive author of 12 books tell the story of her life.
In the process, she learns there is a thirteenth tale after all.
The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
When a long-lost book reappears, it impacts the lives of an old man and young woman trying to help her mother. Leo wrote the book 60 years before, Alma was named after a character in the same book unaware of the writer’s identity.
The story is poignant and moving. I remember crying at the end.
Thriller Books About Books
Home Before Dark
Author: Riley Sager
Year: 2020
Genre: Thriller
More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller, USA Today Best Books of 2020
Age Range: 18+
Plot
It is so strange that I have read four paranormal fiction this month! Maggie Holt spent three weeks in a house that became the subject of a best-selling novel written by her father.
During the three weeks in the house, the family was haunted by ghosts before they were eventually forced to flee. Twenty-five years later, Maggie is shocked to learn that her father still owned the house when he died and the house is now hers.
As Maggie returns to the house to find out what really happened, she might be in for more than she bargained for. Even though this is last on our list of Riley Sager books, it was a fun read that I would highly recommend.
Why Jackie likes it
This is a fun book that is not only about books but also has a touch of paranormal as well. If ghosts are not your thing but you love thrillers, I would recommend this one as a perfect “in-between” book. Riely Sager is very readable and his books are never a disappointment.
Find this book in: The Best Riley Sager Books Ranked / Fall Books / Halloween Thriller Books / Books About Books
Plot
This is one of the best mystery thrillers that I have read in a long time. I loved this book from beginning to end. Years ago, Malcolm, a bookseller, wrote a blog post that included books with the most unsolvable murders.
One day, an FBI agent comes to his store to ask him about that post. She believes that someone is using it as a recipe for committing murders.
Why Jackie loves it
The book has twists and turns and is so well-written!!! I had no idea what was coming next.
Find this book in: Fictional Books About Serial Killers / Ultimate List of Books About Books / Mystery and Thriller Novels About Writers
The Writing Retreat
Author: Julia Bartz
Year: 2023
Genre: Thriller
More info: Instant New York Times bestsellers
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Alex has almost given up her dream of being a writer when a famous horror writer invites her to a month-long writing retreat. When she arrives, she is told that she must, along with the other attendees, write an entire novel during the retreat and the best novel will win a huge publishing deal.
Soon, Alex is having trouble differentiating between her book and reality. To make things even worse, her ex-best friend is among the 5 invitees and now she does not know who to trust.
Trigger Warnings
Murder, sexual content
Why Jackie loves it
I know this book had mixed reviews, but I love this horror thriller book. I was never sure what to believe, and I did not predict where the story was headed. It is certainly a scary pick and not for the faint of heart.
Find this book in: Fiction Books About Writers / Mystery and Thriller Novels About Writers / Horror Thriller Books / Isolation Thriller
The Magpie Murders by
Author: Anthony Horowitz
Year: 2017
Genre: Mystery
More info: Winner of the Macavity Award for Best Novel, NPR Best Book of the Year
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:
Plot
Susan Ryland is an editor who is working with Alan Conway, as she has for years. He has been writing about the detective Atticus Pünd for years and is very successful. In Conway’s book, Pünd is investigating a murder at Pye Hall, but the more Suan reads, the more she is unsure how much of the book is fiction. In this book, you uncover the murder of a mystery author while also reading his book about murder. Are they interconnected?
Why Jackie loves it
There is a murder mystery within a murder mystery in this well-written and thoughtful book. Anthony Horowitz is an internationally best-selling author for a reason. This book will keep you guessing until the last page. The idea is truly unique and so well executed.
Find this book in: Mystery and Thriller Novels About Writers / Jewish Authors and Writers / British Mysteries
Books about Publishing
The Editor
Author: Steven Rowley
Year: 2019
Genre: Fiction
More info: Bestselling author of Lily and the Octopus and The Guncle
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
At its heart, this is a book about James Smale and his amazing and complicated relationship with his mother. When James finally sells his book and goes to meet his editor, it is none other than Jackie O.
She forces him to look into himself and answer the questions that he didn’t know to ask. This is one of those books that will stay with you.
Why Jackie loves it
I absolutely adored this book. Rowley is amazing at writing about complex relationships. The emotions are so clear and raw, that they jump from the page while the story builds quietly. This is such a great book club book because there is so much to discuss.
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Books About Books / The Best Books of 2019
By the Book
Author: Jasmine Guillory
Year: 2022
Genre: Romance
More info: Meant to Be #2
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Isabelle was overjoyed when she landed her dream job in publishing as an editorial assistant. She is also the only Black employee. She has been waiting for a promotion for two years and decides she will earn that by going to the mansion of a celebrity with an overdue memoir. All she has to do is give him the right pep talk to encourage him to write the book.
This task is not as easy as it seems. Beau is standoffish, stubborn, and difficult. Soon Izzy finds herself living in his house and helping him with his book.
Trigger Warnings
Death of a Parent
Why Jackie loves it
The forced proximity also helps her find something that she needs- the confidence to ask for what she wants. You’ll love this fairy tale retelling of Beauty and the Beast!
Find this book in: Grumpy Sunshine / Jasmine Guillory Books/ Fairy Tale Retellings / Romance Books About Books
Dictionary of Lost Words
Author: Pip Williams
Year: 2022
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: May 2022 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Esme spent her childhood in the Scriptorium of Oxford with her dad and his colleagues as they worked to create the first Oxford Dictionary. When the word “bondmaid” slips to the floor, Esme stashes it along with other discarded words into a space place in her home. Overtime, she begins to realize the words often associated with women carry less weight than those for men, which is when she starts to collect words for her own project – The Dictionary of Lost Words.
Trigger Warnings
War, Death of a Parent
Why Jackie likes it
I have to say that I never had any idea how the dictionary was made and how “abridged” my version actually is (think 20 volumes and 4ft of shelf space). This historical fiction was brilliantly researched and detailed. The heart of this book is the importance of words and women finding their power in small ways in a male-centered world. At times I thought the book moved a little slowly but it is well-written and enjoyable.
Find this book in: Books About Books / Reese Witherspoon 2022
The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris
June 2021 GMA Book Club Pick
Wow. I’m still processing this genre-defying novel. It’s a social commentary and a thriller all in one. It makes me want to sit down and discuss it with everyone.
Nella is the only black girl at her publishing house until Hazel is hired. Thinking she’s found an ally, instead, she begins to wonder if Hazel might be an enemy instead.
As Hazel’s career soars, Nella is left questioning her identity, her ideals, and what it means to be a black woman in the business world while trying to uncover who is behind the scary notes she keeps receiving.
Literary Wonderland by Laura Miller
This reference book takes us on a journey of some of the most imaginative lands ever created in fiction.
Classics locations like Oz, Neverland, and Wonderland and discussed alongside Westeros, Narnia, and Harry Potter’s fictional realm. It’s one of our favorite non-fiction books about books.
More Books about Books
Did you find any books about books for your own shelves?
14 Children’s Books About Books
Do you have little ones? Then you might want to check out these kids’ books about books.
Thank you for this! have been reading novels with words related to books or libraries in their titles and have been keeping track of them in a book app. I have read several on your list and others not on your list I have come across. Coincidentally, I had just finished reading The Little Paris Bookshop and am now reading The Book of Speculation.
OMG!! So many books that I want to read!! My TBR just pretty much tripled, haha. Thanks for all these suggestions! 🙂