Southern Literature to Cozy Up With
By Robbie Perdue
As winter sets in, there’s nothing better than curling up with a good book. And if you’re looking for some captivating stories that will transport you to the charming and haunting world of the South, you’re in luck! Try a book on this list of must-read Southern literature that will surely make you feel right at home.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – We couldn’t start this list without mentioning the classic that has captured the hearts of millions. Set in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, this coming-of-age story explores themes of racial injustice, innocence, and the loss of childhood. Lee’s evocative prose and memorable characters have earned this novel its place as one of the most beloved Southern novels of all time.
- “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell – A sweeping epic set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, this novel follows the tenacious and tempestuous Scarlett O’Hara as she navigates love, loss, and survival in the antebellum South. Mitchell’s vivid descriptions will transport you to the plantations of Georgia and provide a glimpse into a world forever changed by war.
- “A Confederacy of Dunces” by John Kennedy Toole – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel takes readers on a wild and hilarious journey through the streets of New Orleans. Ignatius J. Reilly, a larger-than-life character, and his eccentric adventures will keep you entertained from beginning to end. With its sharp wit and satirical commentary, this book is a testament to the peculiarities and contradictions of the South.
- “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” by John Berendt – Step into the enchanting city of Savannah, Georgia, where the line between reality and fiction blurs. Berendt weaves a mesmerizing true crime tale that revolves around a murder trial, eccentric characters, and the city’s hauntingly beautiful ambiance. This book will make you fall in love with Savannah and its eccentric charm.
- “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker – Walker’s powerful novel explores the lives of African American women in the early 20th century South. Through the letters of Celie, we witness her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and triumph over adversity. With its lyrical prose and profound messages about womanhood and racial identity, this book is a true Southern masterpiece.
- “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett – Set in 1960s Jackson, Mississippi, “The Help” tells the story of African American maids who serve white families during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Stockett masterfully explores themes of race, identity, and friendship in a time of deep social divisions. This novel will both break your heart and inspire you with its portrayal of courage and hope.
- “Bastard Out of Carolina” by Dorothy Allison – This semi-autobiographical novel delves into the life of Bone Boatwright, a young girl growing up in poverty-stricken South Carolina. Allison’s unflinching portrayal of poverty, abuse, and resilience creates a haunting and unforgettable reading experience. Despite its dark themes, the story ultimately celebrates the strength of the human spirit.
- “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston – Hurston’s masterpiece is a coming-of-age story set in rural Florida. Through the eyes of Janie Crawford, the novel explores themes of love, self-discovery, and finding one’s voice in a society that often silences women. With its rich language and vibrant characters, this book captures the essence of black Southern life in the early 20th century.
- “The Prince of Tides” by Pat Conroy – This captivating novel paints a vivid portrait of the South Carolina low country and the complex relationships within a dysfunctional family. Through the eyes of Tom Wingo, a football coach and narrator, Conroy delves into themes of trauma, redemption, and the power of love. With its lyrical prose and deeply flawed characters, this book will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
- “Cold Sassy Tree” by Olive Ann Burns – Set in the small town of Cold Sassy, Georgia, in the early 20th century, this novel takes readers on a nostalgic journey through the life of fourteen-year-old Will Tweedy. Burns captures the essence of a changing South as Will navigates family drama, forbidden love, and societal expectations. With its warm storytelling and charming characters, this book is a delightful homage to Southern culture.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Southern literature or are looking to discover new voices, these fall reads will transport you to the enchanting world of the South. So grab a cup of sweet tea, cozy up in your favorite reading nook, and get ready to be swept away by the captivating stories that only the South can provide. Happy reading, y’all!
Robbie Perdue
is a native North Carolinian who enjoys cooking, butchery, and is passionate about all things BBQ. He straddles two worlds as an IT professional and a farmer who loves heritage livestock and heirloom vegetables. His perfect day would be hunting deer, dove, or ducks then babysitting his smoker while watching the sunset over the blackwater of Lake Waccamaw.
