10 Books That Inspire Hope And Joy: A Spring Reading List | Writer’s Relief

It’s been a long, strange, difficult year for many of us. But as we enter spring once again, the bookworms here at Writer’s Relief are ready for brighter days—and what could make any day brighter than a well-written story? Here’s our reading list of 10 books that will inspire hope and joy as we all look forward to better days ahead!

Spring Reading List: Books That Inspire Hope And Joy

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Eleanor Oliphant has several issues, from a verbally abusive mother to a mediocre job to a superiority complex. The story of how she finds love and self-acceptance is lacerating in its wit and humor while managing to melt your heart.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Yes, we know this book shows up a lot on reading lists. But there’s a reason! Austen’s caustic wit and sharp social commentary, combined with the tenuous romance between Lizzie and Mr. Darcy, make this a joy to read at any time.

Scrappy Little Nobody by Anna Kendrick

Hilarious and heartwarming, this series of essays by actress and singer Anna Kendrick discusses the challenges of being a Broadway child-star and an unconventional Hollywood actress.

Summerland by Michael Chabon

Chabon’s spectacular young adult fantasy is about a group of children who save the world…by playing baseball! You don’t have to be a baseball fan to get carried away by this fantastical story.

Act One by Moss Hart

Although the facts are highly embellished, Moss Hart’s classic memoir about his beginnings as a playwright is perhaps the ultimate “rags to riches” narrative.

The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

This rollicking and hilarious story revolves around Allan Karlsson, who climbs out a window in order to escape his 100th birthday party and inadvertently embarks on an adventure featuring everything from nasty criminals to elephants.

The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak

This children’s book is exactly what the title says it is—and so much more! Entertaining and playful for children and adults alike!

Wild by Cheryl Strayed

Although there is grief and sadness, Strayed’s memoir of rediscovering herself while hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail is also a hopeful story of human resilience.

How to Raise an Elephant by Alexander McCall Smith

In this installment of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, Mma Ramotswe is faced with damage to her beloved van, family drama, and a baby elephant—and handles it all with her signature grace and kindness.

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson

Johnson’s reassuring and frank “memoir-manifesto” explores childhood, adolescence, and college years through the eyes of a Black queer boy.