I’m so ready for spring. Now that March is coming, I’m done with hibernation and cosy winter reads, and I’m looking to embrace lighter, more uplifting books to read for spring. I’m talking books that inspire with a sense of renewal and broaden my mind with new possibilities and adventures.
With these themes in mind, here are some heartwarming, fresh and optimistic spring books to read for the new season.
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I’ve included Amazon links to each book, but you can also read where to get e-books and audiobooks for free and how to listen to audiobooks on Spotify for alternatives. (Check out how to gift Kindle books and how to gift Audible for other digital versions.)
- 1. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
- 2. “Circe” by Madeline Miller
- 3. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
- 4. “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman
- 5. “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
- 6. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
- 7. “Normal People” by Sally Rooney
- 8. “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah
- 9. “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert
- 10. “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
- 11. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
- More Spring Books to Read
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1. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
The Midnight Library is perfect book for anyone looking to reflect on the possibilities of life. Nora Seed finds herself in a mysterious library where each book represents a different version of her life. As she explores different paths, the novel is a meditation on regret, hope, and second chances, making it a great companion for the renewal season of spring.
“The only way to learn is to live. And the only way to live is to make choices.”
And did I mention how much I love Matt Haig? Check out my favourite quotes from Reasons to Stay Alive here.
2. “Circe” by Madeline Miller
If you’re in the mood for a mythological tale with a modern twist, Circe brings the story of the witch from Homer’s Odyssey to life. The beautifully written prose, alongside Circe’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment, makes for a captivating spring read. The themes of transformation and rebirth align perfectly with the season.
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” — Charlotte Brontë (quoted in Circe as part of Circe’s rebellious journey)
3. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
This whimsical and enchanting novel takes place in a magical circus that is only open at night. Filled with vivid imagery and breathtaking imagination, it’s a perfect book to indulge in as you step into the dreamlike atmosphere of spring. Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus is mysterious, mesmerising, and full of wonder.
“The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not.”
4. “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman
A heartwarming and humorous story about Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward woman who learns the importance of kindness, connection, and finding joy in the little things. With its themes of personal growth and transformation, it’s an uplifting read for spring.
This is one book I struggled to put down. You can’t help but root for the quirky narrator. The way her story is revealed to the reader really keeps you guessing until the end.
“I am very busy, you know. I have a lot of things to do, and they all require my undivided attention.”
5. “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
The House in the Cerulean Sea is a fantasy novel that tells the story of Linus Baker, a by-the-book government worker who is sent to a mysterious orphanage run by a quirky caretaker. The children at the orphanage possess magical powers, and Linus’s life takes unexpected turns as he discovers the meaning of love, acceptance, and what it means to be truly alive. It’s a perfect feel-good read for the season.
“There’s no use in being anything but yourself.”
6. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
I’m not the biggest Austen fan (more of a Brontë girl), but I have to admit that something about Austen’s playful romance novels remind me of spring. The witty dialogue and blossoming love story between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice offer the kind of light-hearted escapism that’s perfect for the spring months.
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”
I also included this novel in my list of the best love stories to read for Valentine’s Day.
7. “Normal People” by Sally Rooney
For a more modern and introspective read, Normal People explores the complicated relationships between Connell and Marianne as they navigate their lives from high school to university. It’s an emotionally intense and deeply human book that examines love, friendship, and personal growth, making it an ideal choice for those reflective spring moments.
This book touched me deeply. I loved the complexity of the characters and watching them grow up, grow apart and come back together reminded me of a grittier version of David Nicholls’ One Day.
“We all have our secrets. But not all of us are able to talk about them.”
8. “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah
Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, The Four Winds follows Elsa Martinelli’s journey through hardship, survival, and finding hope amidst the bleakest circumstances. It’s a story of resilience and the unbreakable bonds of family, making it a perfect spring read to reflect on strength and renewal.
“The hardest part of love was not being loved back. The hardest part was loving someone who would never be the same.”
9. “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert
If you’re looking for inspiration this spring, Big Magic is a fantastic nonfiction read. Elizabeth Gilbert dives into the creative process, encouraging readers to embrace curiosity, take risks, and lead a life of creativity and joy. It’s a refreshing and empowering read that pairs perfectly with the energy of a new season.
“Do you have the courage to bring forth the work that is yours? Do you have the courage to be one of those who are willing to do what it takes to create something?”
I also included this book in my list of 9 Books About Self-Love for Insight & Empowerment.
10. “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
This spiritual guide offers practical wisdom for living a peaceful and joyful life. The Four Agreements—Be impeccable with your word, Don’t take anything personally, Don’t make assumptions, and Always do your best—are simple yet profound lessons that can help clear away mental clutter and invite peace and clarity, perfect for a fresh start in spring.
“Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others.”
I included this book in my list of 10 Powerful Books for Changing Your Life.
11. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
A timeless classic that celebrates the power of nature and personal transformation, The Secret Garden is the first book that sprang to mind when I was thinking of books to read for spring. When Mary Lennox discovers a hidden garden, her life begins to bloom in ways she never imagined. A beautiful read for anyone seeking inspiration, healing, and the magic of nature; this was one of my favourite books to read as a child.
“If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.”
More Spring Books to Read
This spring, let the changing seasons inspire your reading list. What other reads would you add to this spring books list? Let me know in the comments.
More Fantastic Books & Where to Find Them
For more of what to read where, check out my full Travel Books Guide, filled with book recommendations for different destinations, the most beautiful bookstores around the world, tips on how to get the best deals on audiobooks and e-books, as well as more literary travel.
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