Winter break is fast approaching, and with it comes that little bit of free time we get between semesters to ourselves. VALLEY knows some of us like to cram as many books as possible into those three short weeks, so look no further than our list of recommendations, organized based on which zodiac sign we think would like them best. Remember — your sun, moon and rising signs are all equally important (and literature is incredibly subjective), so don’t be discouraged if you don’t like our picks!
Aries — “1984”
As the first sign of the zodiac, and a fire sign at that, Aries have quite the personality. Known for being bold and confident — like the Gryffindor of the zodiac (sorry Leos) — an Aries will never back down from an adventure. For that reason, George Orwell’s “1984” is the perfect adrenaline-inducing read; you’ll join Winston in his paranoia and bravery from cover to cover.
Taurus — “The Outsiders”
OK, we get it, Taurus people are stubborn and jealous. So what? You’re also intensely loyal — and very down-to-earth, as your element suggests. That’s why we think S.E. Hinton’s novel about a ragtag group of teenage boys is the perfect classic for you — their brotherly love is rival only to what you offer to the people in your life, Taurus.
Gemini — “The Great Gatsby”
At first glance, Jay Gatsby’s double life is just playing into the dual-sided trope that the Gemini twins tend to get branded with. However, Geminis can be more than two-faced; you’re romantic and sociable, and are sure to find your curiosity peaked by the tumultuous lives of Fitzgerald’s characters.
Cancer — “Of Mice and Men”
We know you’re not crybabies, Cancer, we know. You’re empathetic and protective, and that emotional sensitivity tends to make you cautious in all of your relationships. The way George cares for Lennie in “Of Mice and Men” is reminiscent of your intensity, and while their story is tragic, it’s also beautiful.
Leo — “The Picture of Dorian Gray”
Listen, Leos, we just couldn’t resist. When we first read this story about someone so swept up in his own beauty that he literally sells his soul, we couldn’t help but think of you. However, there’s more to it than simple vanity. Oscar Wilde teaches a lesson on self-image and influence in this sardonic novel with twists and turns that you won’t want to miss.
Virgo — “Flowers for Algernon”
Sometimes, Virgos, you get the short end of the stick. People call you controlling, perfectionistic and sometimes even boring, but we know there’s more to you — you just want to fix everything that’s wrong in the world. You’re fiercely loyal, and once you love someone, you don’t stop. When boiled down, “Flowers for Algernon” is about unconditional love and trying to fix something that really didn’t need fixing. The main characters go through an unfathomably life-changing experience and come out of it still caring for one another, which is just the right amount of the hurt/comfort trope a Virgo needs from their winter read.
Libra -—”Pride and Prejudice”
Libras, though you don’t always love to admit it, are incredibly romantic at heart. The side more often shown to the public is all business; you’re social, sophisticated and intellectual. It would not surprise us at all if Elizabeth Bennet is a Libra, which is why we think this book would resonate perfectly with you and your (secretly) hopelessly romantic heart.
Scorpio — “The Secret History”
It’s no secret that Scorpios tend to be a bit dark and reclusive, so why not take a little murder with your tea? Though written less than 50 years ago, Donna Tartt’s debut novel is regarded by many as a future classic, and the main characters are sure to keep you hooked. This perfect example of dark academia is set in a New England liberal arts school and follows a group of elite classics students who have much more to them than their sheer brilliance.
Sagittarius — “On the Road”
Sagittarius, you’re fun, you’re wild and you’re free. Nobody can tell you how to live your life, especially when you’re too busy going on another spontaneous adventure. Jack Kerouac captures that vibe perfectly in “On The Road,” a story about his and his friends’ real-life cross-country travels told in the form of fiction. You’ll find yourself looking into all of the authors of the 1950s Beat Generation when you finish this one, which we think is perfectly up your alley.
Capricorn — “The Catcher in the Rye”
People just don’t always understand you, Capricorn. They think you’re reclusive, and that you’d rather have your nose in a book at home than your hand around a cup at a party. They’re right, of course, but only because you have such a great taste in books. We’re sure you’re probably already familiar with J.D. Salinger’s most famous work, but if not, definitely add it to your list. We don’t need to lecture you on the importance of understanding that Holden Caulfield is an unreliable narrator; just sit back and enjoy his perspective on the world for a bit — and try not to relate to it too much!
Aquarius — “Animal Farm”
Aquarians can be quite the enigma. You’re idealistic and open-minded, but can also be quite rebellious and stubborn — that’s why we think George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” is the perfect read for you! The whole story is an allegory for the Russian Revolution of 1917, but before you let that bore you, trust us, it’s wildly entertaining. It’s set on a farm as the animals overthrow the humans in charge and then have to grapple with running the farm themselves. There’s political intrigue, morality disputes and plenty of satirical humor, so it’s sure to become a new favorite of yours.
Pisces — “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”
Though the reputation tends to go to someone else in the Zodiac, Pisceans can be incredibly sensitive, and you tend to isolate yourself from society at the earliest sign of trouble. However, your positive traits vastly outweigh the negatives; you’re curious, empathetic, creative and wondrous. Lewis Carroll’s countlessly-adapted nonsensical children’s novel is the perfect choice for your next adventure. It’s dreamy and youthful, but still mature enough to be enjoyed by adults.
Was your favorite book on our list? Let us know what you’ll be reading this winter by tweeting us, @VALLEYmag, on Twitter!
1 Comment