Rory Gilmore’s Favorite Reads That Every Fan Should Explore
It’s that time of the year again when I log into Netflix and begin ‘Gilmore Girls’ from the start. It’s an annual event that cannot be missed. After all, ‘Gilmore Girls’ pairs perfectly with Fall — coffee, comfort food, family, friends, and not to mention it’s almost always Fall there, no?
‘Gilmore Girls’ is like your favorite pair of sweatpants—warm, comforting, and impossible not to love. There’s something special about watching a show that celebrates the beauty of life’s everyday moments. It’s a time when you can cozy up under a blanket, sip your favorite hot beverage, and get lost in the world of Stars Hollow.
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Getting lost in a fictional world is something the Gilmores do, too. Rory Gilmore, to be more specific, does it all the time. Her love affair with books is a heartwarming ode to the magic of literature. With a book perpetually in hand, she navigates life’s ups and downs through the pages of countless stories. From the classics that whisper timeless wisdom to the contemporary tales that spark her curiosity, Rory’s insatiable appetite for reading is a testament to the power of words.
“I live in two worlds. One is a world of books.”
Rory Gilmore S3 E22
Get Lost in Rory’s World
Although there are so many more books to add to the long list of Rory’s well-read books, today I am sharing a handful that I have explored, too. As a previous lit major, who has far too many books overwhelming her bookshelves, I’ve always admired Rory and occasionally related to the books she held so dear in her heart. I say “occasionally” because I think there were 500+ books mentioned in the show.
However, a moment from the show I always think about (for two reasons) is when Rory and Jess first meet. Reason 1. um, hello #teamjess, enough said. And reason 2. I’ve always been proud to have read the first book Rory and Jess discuss. “Howl” by Allen Ginsberg. Okay, time to put on season 2… again.
“The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
Step into the world of Esther Greenwood as she shares the raw ups and downs of life’s struggles in this emotionally charged novel.
Lorelai: You’re going to a Chilton party?
Rory: Yes, I am.
Lorelai: Honey, why don’t you just stay home and read The Bell Jar? Same effect.
Gilmore Girls s1 e17
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties, where love, ambition, and the American Dream collide.
“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
Join Holden Caulfield on his introspective journey through New York City as he grapples with the complexities of growing up.
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
It’s a world of witty banter, sly social commentary, and timeless romance. It’s like attending a fabulous society ball where love and snappy comebacks abound.
“Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy
A dramatic journey through 19th-century Russia filled with love, betrayal, and societal complexities that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“Show me a happy family – just one. Didn’t that Tolstoy-guy say something about families?”
Luke s4 e12
“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
Scout Finch, a spunky Southern girl witnessing the harsh realities of racism and injustice. It’s a powerful, eye-opening journey through the heart of a deeply divided town.
“Atonement” by Ian McEwan
A young girl’s innocent lie spirals into a heart-wrenching tale of love, guilt, and redemption. With twists and turns that’ll leave you breathless and tearing up, it will haunt you forever. Or, maybe that’s just me…
“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
This story is like a peek into the glitzy but dark world of a handsome guy who never ages, but his portrait does all the ugly stuff for him. Vanity, decadence, and moral chaos – it’s a wild ride!
“You don’t move or change ever. There’s a picture of you in the attic that Dorian Gray is consulting copyright lawyers about.”
Lorelai S8 e4
“Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë
A stormy romance that’s as passionate as it is tumultuous. Heathcliff and Catherine’s love story is like a tempest that sweeps you off your feet and leaves you breathless.
“And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie
A mysterious island mansion where ten strangers are lured, and one by one, they meet their doom. Agatha Christie’s masterpiece is a thrilling puzzle of suspense, deceit, and murder.
“The Awakening” by Kate Chopin
Edna Pontellier as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation in the stifling societal norms of the late 19th century. It’s a story of awakening and independence that will leave you pondering life’s complexities.
“Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë
A young orphan named Jane, fighting her way through life’s twists and turns, uncovering secrets, and discovering love in the most unexpected places. It’s like a rollercoaster of emotions and self-discovery.
“I can’t believe Rory’s turning 21. It seems like just yesterday she was crying because you told her Charlotte Brontë couldn’t come to her sleepover because she’s dead.”
Sookie s6 E7
“A Clockwork Orange” by Anthony Burgess
Enter the dystopian world of Alex, a young delinquent with a taste for violence and classical music. It’s a darkly satirical exploration of free will, morality, and the consequences of societal control.
“The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas
Prepare for an epic adventure of revenge, betrayal, and redemption as Edmond Dantès transforms into the enigmatic and vengeful Count of Monte Cristo. It’s a sweeping tale of justice and retribution that spans the years.
“The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood” by Rebecca Wells
Join the spirited Ya-Ya Sisterhood on a journey of friendship, family secrets, and the deep bonds that tie them together. It’s like opening a treasure chest of Southern charm, laughter, and heartwarming stories.
“Howl” by Allen Ginsberg
Ginsberg’s “Howl” is like a raw, unfiltered outpouring of emotions from a whole generation. It’s like hearing your friend passionately rant about the world’s injustices and societal reflections, leaving you inspired and moved. “Howl” was mentioned in the show when Rory and Jess first met.
“I just wanted to put some notes in the margins for you.”
Jess s2 e
“Emma” by Jane Austen
Enter the delightful world of matchmaking and misunderstandings as Emma Woodhouse plays Cupid with disastrous, yet endearing, results. It’s a witty and charming exploration of love and self-discovery.
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
Unleash the power of science and the terror of creation as Victor Frankenstein brings a monstrous being to life. Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece delves into the consequences of playing god and the fear of the unknown.
“Nancy Drew and the Witch Tree Symbol” by Carolyn Keene
One of my favorites from my Nancy Drew collection. It’s a mysterious case involving a witch tree symbol, all while basically being Nancy’s sidekick, solving puzzles and uncovering secrets in a thrilling adventure.
“Rebecca” by Daphne Du Maurier
The hauntingly atmospheric world of Manderley, where the memory of Rebecca looms large. It’s a tale of love, obsession, and the eerie secrets that bind a marriage.
“Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare
Fall in love with the timeless tragedy of two young lovers from feuding families as they defy fate and embrace a love that transcends generations. Shakespeare’s poetic masterpiece is a timeless exploration of passion and tragedy.
“The Secret Life of Bees” by Sue Monk Kidd
Enter the enchanting world of a young girl’s journey to uncover her mother’s past, guided by the wisdom and warmth of the beekeeping Boatwright sisters. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring tale of love, forgiveness, and the power of female bonds.
“The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger
Join Henry and Clare on a unique love story where time is anything but linear. It’s a mesmerizing exploration of love’s endurance, despite the challenges of time travel.
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