Winter is the perfect season for curling up with a good book. The shorter days and chill in the air invite us to settle in, find a cozy spot, and let stories transport us to new places. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next literary escape, here are three recommendations.
First up is Agatha of Little Neon by Claire Luchette. This quietly humorous novel follows Agatha, a nun reassigned with her fellow sisters to a halfway house in a small Rhode Island town. Through Agatha’s eyes, readers explore themes of belonging, faith, and the small acts of love that shape our lives. Luchette’s prose is elegant and insightful, making this a good choice for readers who appreciate character-driven narratives with a touch of introspection.
For foodies and fans of quirky, interconnected tales, Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal is a treat. This novel celebrates the Midwestern culinary world through the life of Eva Thorvald, a gifted chef whose story unfolds through a series of vignettes tied to different characters and dishes. With its blend of humor and mouthwatering descriptions, this book offers a delicious escape from winter’s gray skies. It’s a reminder of how food connects us to our heritage and each other.
Finally, Claire Keegan’s Foster is a masterclass in brevity and beauty. This novella, set in rural Ireland, tells the story of a young girl sent to live with distant relatives for the summer. Keegan’s lyrical writing and keen observations make Foster a gem that lingers long after the final page.
What books do you recommend for winter reading?
Blog by Rev. Amy Miracle
Just started another of Marie Benedict’s historical fiction books… Her Hidden Genius, about the woman who discovered DNA (move over Watson and Crick!)
Thank you for these recommendations! Always looking for a a good book.
I recommend “ I Haven’t Been Completely Honest With You “ by British actor ( from Call The Midwife) and Comedian Miranda Heart. Miranda shares her journey of self discovery and healing over the last decade after being diagnosed with Lyme disease which she contracted in her teens. She shares her “treasures” on how to live life. Her story is filled with humor and encouragement, plus some fart jokes which reminded me of my youngest daughter in 4th grade. . I found the book uplifting.
Highly recommend the audiobook with Miranda reading it.
Amy, thanks for the recommendations. I read Claire Keegan’s Small Things like These over the holidays. Beautifully written.
Amy,
Thank you. All three of these recommendations look interesting. We will likely pursue them all.