Written by Megan Ryan

Maybe some editors prefer to leave the world of books and publishing behind in their free time, but I enjoy a good novel about any aspect of writing or reading. Here are a few of my recent favorite novels about books.

Little Women

This classic Civil War–era novel by Louisa May Alcott is the story of four sisters growing up. They each have their own interests and struggles, but I most identified with Jo and her passion for writing. She creates plays and stories in childhood and then pursues a writing career. I think most people connected to publishing will relate to the highs and lows of her journey.

Meet Me in the Margins

In this contemporary romantic comedy by Melissa Ferguson, Savannah works for a struggling publisher, but she dreams of being an author. After leaving her work-in-progress in a hidden part of the office, she starts getting notes in the margins from an anonymous editor. It’s a funny and sweet story that’s not explicitly Christian but seems to offer a Christian worldview.

The Blackout Book Club

This novel by Amy Lynn Green is set in Maine during WWII, giving a home-front perspective. It centers on a book club at the town’s private library. The interim head librarian is not actually very fond of books. Her story is interwoven with those of the library’s owner, a mother of two working in town, and a young woman who wants to save her family’s home. It is a Christian novel, but I don’t remember there being a lot of faith content. I appreciated the characters learning about the power of connecting with other readers.

A Novel Proposal

A contemporary romance by Denise Hunter, this book is about a novelist who is forced to change genres. Sadie’s Westerns haven’t sold well, so her publisher wants her to write present-day romance instead. Her new neighbor and a ring left in a book in her little free library finally inspire her. This was a light and fun read for me; the changing trends in publishing felt real.

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

Kim Michele Richardson wrote this historical fiction about Cussy, a blue-skinned young woman in Kentucky in the 1930s. She becomes a pack horse librarian, bringing books and magazines to those in the mountains who might not have access. This is not a Christian novel, and there is a scene of sexual assault in it. But I found the perspective on discrimination to be thought-provoking. I also connected to Cussy’s commitment to helping others through books.

Authentically, Izzy

This romantic comedy by Pepper Basham is told mainly through letters, texts, and emails. It follows Izzy, a major bibliophile who’s very introverted. She connects online with a similarly bookish man who lives in another country. I relished all the literary references throughout their conversations. I don’t remember the faith element being strong, but it is a Christian novel. The sequels about Izzy’s relatives Penelope and Luke are also fun (but not about books).

Nonfiction bonus: When Books Went to War

I learned so much from Molly Guptill Manning’s history of books supplied to troops during WWII. The popularity of this form of entertainment in the military contributed to paperbacks being more widely available and more people reading for fun.

These are just some of my favorite novels about books. Since I would love to read even more novels about books and writing, please leave your favorites in the comments!

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