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Posted on: November 27, 2020

Fall Into a Favorite Comfort Read

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Much like a warm bowl of creamy mashed potatoes, these books bring us the same sense of comfort and nostalgia as your favorite comfort food. Comfort reads often have sentimental value or are revisited for the easy experience and smiles they offer. Here are some of our favorite books that we turn to when we need a pick-me-up and never get old, despite rereading them numerous times

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery 

Anne of Green GablesThis book takes me back to childhood every time I read it. It feels like visiting old friends, and even though I know Anne, Diana, and Gilbert's adventures by heart, I always laugh and cringe and cry at all the appropriate times. I have always considered Anne to be a kindred spirit, but as I get older, I find that I identify with Marilla as well. I know that Anne of Green Gables is a story I can always return to, and it will never disappoint.

Amanda, Circulation

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The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Great GatsbyThe Great Gatsby is my comfort read because it is a quick read, and I'm very familiar with it. Comfort to me is something that is a favorite and often revisited -- be it a book or potatoes (which reminds me of another comfort read of mine, Pride and Prejudice, and a wonderfully strange line by Mr. Collins, but I digress…)

I've read The Great Gatsby well over 15 times. I took a college class over the "Lost Generation," and we were able to study Fitzgerald's novels among other extraordinary authors. I don't have to think too hard while reading it because I know it so well by now. There's plenty of great symbolism throughout, which you can just read as is or take some time to ponder that in more detail. "The Great Gatsby" is called the "Great American Novel" as it's always read in classes, written in beautiful prose with no extra fluff added to it, and is about American ideals. This short novel is set during the Jazz Age and follows Jay Gatsby and his love for Daisy Buchanan. I hope you find this book as your next comfort read. 

"So we beat on…"

Courtney, Assistant Library Director

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Tuesday's with Morrie by Mitch Albom

Tuesdays with MorieThis book holds a sweet spot in my heart. I have always loved to see life from many lenses, and seeing through Morrie's eyes has been one of my favorites. The main characters are relatable, sincere, and do add a touch of humor. The lessons in this book are some that I will keep for a lifetime. Plus, I love the fact that it is a true story. It is a shorter read, which makes it that much easier to enjoy again and again. 

Isabella, Circulation

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Lirael: Daughter of the Clayr by Garth Nix

LiraelLirael grows up in a world she feels she doesn't fit into and is in a very desperate place emotionally when the story begins on her 14th birthday. The story is very much a classical coming-of-age tale about finding your family and your place in life, and how those two things are not always what you would expect them to be. It's also about magic and adventure and standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of the worst possible odds. I developed a strong affinity for the title character the first time I read it as a dramatic 14-year-old. It's easily my favorite fantasy series that I've ever read, and one I return to at least once a year -- especially when I'm having a hard time. I suggest it to anyone, especially those who like Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings. As a special treat, Tim Curry narrates the audiobook!

Mary, Technical Services

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Yotsuba&! by Kiyohiko Azuma

YotsubaWhenever I read this series, it reminds me to notice the simple things in life, taking a note from Yotsuba's titular character. Reading about her silly antics and seeing her confusion with different phrases and seemingly simple situations always brings a smile to my face. Yotsuba&! doesn't have overly exciting or over the top moments and instead takes a measured pace, making it a relaxing read. It's easy to lose track of time with how easy it is to get sucked into her and her family's daily life, and you'll find yourself smiling and forgetting your worries in no time. 

Joshua, Circulation

Borrow the Book: Print




Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

Ella EnchantedI first discovered Ella Enchanted as a shy and quiet middle schooler and immediately fell in love with the spunky, rebellious, and most of all, kind Ella. At birth, Ella is cursed with the "gift" of obedience by a fairy named Lucinda, and as a result, Ella must obey anything anyone tells her to do. While the story is technically a retelling of Cinderella, the similarities stop at a few significant themes: an evil step-family, a charming prince, and of course, glass slippers. Rereading Ella Enchanted feels like hugging your childhood teddy bear again; it's just so warm and comforting (which is probably why I've read it at least twelve times)! If you want a cute and quick read filled with exciting adventure and a clever leading lady -- this is the story for you! 

Marcy, Digital Services Coordinator 

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American Royals by Katharine McGee

American RoyalsThis is a fun and easy read with an alternate twist on history: George Washington is the first King of America, instead of the first president. All royal families descend from King George Washington. In the book, Beatrice is trained as the heir-apparent, while her younger twin sister and brother can basically be 'normal' royal teenagers. It's full of funny antics and genuine teen angst. There's even a great 'mean girl' character. You will find yourself checking out book two before you even finish book one.

Monica, Children's Librarian

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The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Desmond Tutu, Dalai Lama XIV, and Douglas Carlton Abrams

The Book of JoyI often return to this title because it's an uplifting and inspirational book about two people with totally different backgrounds working together and having a great friendship. They also have discussions about joy, overcoming adversity, and the practice of happiness.

Ha, Technical Services

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The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende

The House of the SpiritsThe House of the Spirits was the first novel that I read as a young adult. I originally read it in Spanish, and right away, Isabel Allende became one of my most favorite writers. This book is full of family sagas, passion, politics, and historical events, making it a fun read every time.

Silvia, Technical Services

Borrow the Book:  Print




Island of Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell

island of the blue dolphinsBased on a true story, this award-winning children's book was so inspirational to me as a child and still is today. It was the first survival/adventure book that I read with a female protagonist, Karana. Karana survives on her own on an island with the company of her dogs and pet birds. I find myself rereading this childhood favorite every few years. Bonus: It has a happy ending!

Cecilia, Director of Library Services

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