Aria Hotel Prague

Though Aria Hotel Prague’s main focus is on music (“aria” is in the name, after all!), it has a couple of areas open to guests that are likely to intrigue the casual bibliophile. First up is the hotel’s Music Library and Concierge—which, yes, is filled with CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays, but also has a decent collection of written literature on music.

Aria also has a Fireplace Lounge, which is definitely a more classic take on a library room, decorated in rich reds and golds. Both rooms are open to guests and promise a comfortable place to read (or listen) and relax.

Address: Tržiště 9, 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 11AM

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Strahov Library

We’re starting off strong with a library set in the Strahov Abbey, boasting two magnificent Baroque halls. First up is the Theological Hall, built in the 1670s with jaw-dropping white stucco decorations set with colorful frescoes. Meanwhile, the 20,000-plus religious texts are in gorgeous bookcases crowned with gold.

Second, the Philosophical Hall from the late 1700s, which is even bigger and filled with towering walnut bookshelves and an elaborate ceiling fresco depicting. This one contains over 42,000 volumes on subjects like history, astronomy, and philosophy.

Address: Strahovské nádvoří 132/1, 118 00 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 5PM (last entry is 4:30PM)

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Shakespeare & Sons (Shakespeare & Synové)

This is one of the most notable English-language bookstores in Prague, set in the historic Mala Strana district. Founded in 2002, Shakespeare & Sons (or Shakespeare & Synové in Czech) carries over 20,000 new and used books in English across two floors. The collection caters to a wide range of literary tastes on everything from politics to poetry.

With plush furniture and reading areas, this bookstore gives off a very homey, welcoming vibe, even holding a basement area for live music and various events.

Address: U Lužického semináře 10, 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM

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Božská Lahvice

Combining a café with a wine bar and bookstore is basically a stroke of genius, as proven by Božská Lahvice. Located in the Josefov district, this book café offers a range of books specializing in Czech literature and poetry, including Czech translations of famous titles.

The menu is also very Czech, focusing on regional cuisine that many guests praise for being absolutely delicious. The shop also regularly hosts book presentations of local authors, typically once or twice a week.

Address: Bílkova 122/6, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 10PM
– Saturday: 11AM – 10PM

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Franz Kafka Bookstore

Franz Kafka Bookstore specializes in literature about the famous author Kafka and Jewish history, and offers a wide selection of languages, including Czech and English. Its interior is dominated by black bookcases and steel banisters, while the opulent chandelier hanging above gives the space an air of elegance.

In addition to its broad collection of books, you can find prints and postcards. And if you’re having trouble picking out one title in particular, the shop often has recommendations on display.

Address: Široká 65/14, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 12PM, 12:30PM – 6PM

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Municipal Library of Prague

If all you want out of this list is a massively impressive art display, scoot yourself over to the Municipal Library of Prague. Established in 1891, it stands as one of the city’s oldest public libraries and features a lot of Art Deco style. It was also the first library in Czechoslovakia built to be a library (as opposed to just shoving a collection in any old building).

And as for that impressive art display, it has a huge, cylindrical column of books stacked on top of one another from floor to ceiling, constructed so that you can take a step inside and gawk at the seemingly infinite number of books stretching around you.

Address: Mariánské nám. 98/1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday: 1PM – 8PM
– Tuesday to Friday: 9AM – 8PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 10AM – 6PM
– (Note: may close at 1PM on some Saturdays; be sure to check ahead of time)

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Klementinum Library

Strahov isn’t the only beautiful Baroque library hall in Prague, and Clementinum (spelled with a “K” in Czech) has a very impressive one of its own. Founded by Jesuits in 1722, this architectural work of art holds over 20,000 volumes and features magnificent frescoes on the ceiling, large globes lining the center of the room, and wooden bookshelves with ornate, spiralling columns along every wall.

The Klementinum complex also has the Astronomical Tower and the Mirror Chapel, both of which are also well worth seeing. There is an entrance fee of 380 CZK per person (about US$18), with discounted prices for families and those under 18.

Address: Mariánské nám. 5, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Opening hours:

October to March
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 7PM

April to September
– Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 8PM

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K-A-V-K-A

If you’re a book lover who also loves art, K-A-V-K-A is for you. This specialized bookstore and art gallery focuses on Czech and Slovak art, architecture, design, and photography. It carries art books and original works by local artists, including 20th and 21st-century graphics, drawings, paintings, and sculptures.

While most of the collection is in Czech, there are some in other languages like English, Japanese, and German. K-A-V-K-A also hosts regular exhibitions.

Address: 5, Krocínova 316, Staré Město, 110 00, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 11AM – 6PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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Globe Bookstore & Café

As popular as Shakespeare & Sons might be, Globe Bookstore & Café has it beat as Prague’s first leading English-language bookstore. Its collection consists of about 10,000 titles across genres—children’s literature, nonfiction, fiction, you name it.

And, as the name implies, the store features a lively café serving coffee, cocktails, American-style brunch, and more. Located in a historic building with gorgeous wooden furniture and elegant red-and-white decor. It also hosts various events like literary readings, live music, and quiz nights.

Address: Pštrossova 1925/6, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:

Bookstore:
– Monday to Friday: 10AM – 9PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 9:30AM – 9PM

Café:
– Monday to Thursday: 10AM – 11PM
– Friday: 10AM – 12AM
– Saturday: 9:30AM – 12AM
– Sunday: 9:30AM – 11PM

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Rekomando

This antiquarian bookstore and vinyl record shop was originally established in 2006 but relocated in 2012. With a collection of new and used titles alongside a wide range of music genres, including rock, jazz, and punk, it has a lot going for it to attract customers and keep them coming.

Standing out with a storefront painted bright blue against a concrete building, the shop also supports online orders and even has a buy-back option for vintage books and vinyl.

Address: Trojanova 9, 120 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 6PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Budget Books

Here’s a bookstore chain that is exactly what it says on the tin, plus a little more. Budget Books is the city’s largest budget bookstore, focusing on English-language books. It may very well have the broadest selection of English titles in Prague, all in a clean-cut, well-organized space. It also has a Czech section.

Known for affordable prices and discount bins, the shop has a friendly, laidback atmosphere with helpful staff, and it also supports online orders with in-store pick-up.

Address: Spálená 82/4, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 11AM – 6PM

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Knihkupectví a antikvariát Spálená

Knihkupectví a antikvariát Spálená is an antiquarian bookstore showcasing new and used books in multiple languages, including English and German, alongside collectibles like postcards, maps, paintings, and vinyl records. The bookstore features organized sections with classical literature, rare prints, and first editions, so it’s a pretty sweet retreat for collectors.

The vintage photographs and pictures, most notably of legends like Johnny Cash and David Bowie, hanging on the walls, definitely give it a nostalgic, old-world vibe, but that’s part of its charm and what keeps customers coming back.

Address: Spálená 110/53, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8:30AM – 6:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 4PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Krakatit

Not to be confused with Krakatoa, this bookstore specializes in comics, fantasy, science fiction, horror, and even some very specific nonfiction subjects like military and railroads. Though most of the collection is in Czech, it has a decent offering of other languages too, such as English and German.

The store also sells figures (i.e., action figures and models) and games for all ages, including puzzles, card games, and honestly, more than we could ever list here. It’s an absolute must-visit in Prague for gamers and fans of speculative fiction.

Address: Jungmannova 14, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9:30AM – 6:30PM
– Saturday: 10AM – 1PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Luxor Palace of Books (Palác knih Luxor)

If you want to visit the largest bookstore in the city, head to Palác knih Luxor (translated in English to “Luxor Palace of Books”). It spans several floors with a staggering number of titles in every genre and subject and multiple languages, including Czech, English, French, and German.

As you might expect from such a massive store, Luxor also sells a range of other goods like souvenirs, candles, stationery, and various household goods. It also has a café on the second floor where visitors can drop in, buy a drink, and settle down to read.

Address: Václavské nám. 820/41, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 8AM – 8PM
– Saturday & Sunday: 9AM – 8PM

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Book Therapy

Ever want to know what it feels like to walk into a cloud? Well, you can have the next best thing by stepping into Book Therapy, one of the most zen spaces in the city of Prague. It has a high-quality collection of books and magazines focused on design, architecture, fashion, lifestyle, photography, and art, including English titles.

Book Therapy chose that name because they believe that books can be used as a sort of therapy to soothe the soul, and they work towards that goal by creating a calming, quiet space.

Address: Římská 35, 120 00 Vinohrady, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 11AM – 7PM
– Saturday: 11AM – 5PM
– Sunday: Closed

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1. Podzemní antikvariát

Last but not least is 1. Podzemní antikvariát, AKA 1. Underground Antique Store, with a very intentional “1.” As you might’ve guessed from the name, it’s an antiquarian bookstore best known for its underground atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into Aladdin’s Cave of Wonders, but for books instead of jewels.

Here, you can find rare, used, and antiquarian books covering various genres and languages, attracting collectors, scholars, and book lovers of all sorts.

Address: Hybernská 1008, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9AM – 7PM
– Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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From Airline Reservist to Aspiring Writer

Before Mockingbird became a household name, Harper Lee, born Nelle Harper Lee, was doing something very different. In 1956, she worked as a ticket clerk for British Overseas Airways, a steady job, but one that left her little time or energy to pursue writing in earnest.

She had dreams, of course. Lee was deeply perceptive, drawing on her childhood in Monroeville, Alabama, memories of her family, and the people she knew. But she lacked the financial freedom to put pen to paper full-time or at least to do so without worrying constantly about paying rent.

A Christmas Gift that Changed Everything

Enter two very generous friends: Michael and Joy Brown. The Browns were introduced to Lee through her close friend Truman Capote. Over time, Lee and the Browns became extremely close. She shared with them character sketches and short writings inspired by her Southern roots, and they were deeply impressed by her insight and talent.

Then, on Christmas morning in 1956, they gave her a gift that would change the course of her life, and literary history. Under the Christmas tree was a simple envelope containing a note: “You have one year off from your job to write whatever you please. Merry Christmas.” Alongside those words came a financial commitment: for the next 12 months, they would support her, giving her the equivalent of a full year’s salary so she could focus solely on writing.

Lee herself described the gift as “an act of love,” one rooted in their faith in her. The Browns insisted they didn’t want anything in return; they simply believed in her.

Writing With Freedom and Pressure

That year off was more than a nice gesture: it was a lifeline. With no job to return to (at least for the moment), Lee could devote herself fully to her craft. The gift gave her the time, mental space, and financial cushion necessary to write without distraction and without constant worry.

But that freedom came with its own kind of pressure. Lee had to make the most of the time she’d been given. Her friends weren’t just funding her life; they were investing in her dream. According to interviews and later accounts, Lee threw herself into her work, determined not to let their faith in her be misplaced.

During that time, she worked on a manuscript that would eventually evolve into To Kill a Mockingbird. Interestingly, her original material stemmed from short stories and character sketches she’d written about her home in Alabama. As she pored over her writing, refining and expanding it, she was taking the kind of creative risk she’d never otherwise have been able to afford.

Turning Short Stories Into a Classic

Lee didn’t rush. Even with the clock ticking, she methodically developed her novel. After that first year funded by the Browns, she extended her efforts beyond it, stretching her time and her resources, until she had a complete draft.

Her editor, Tay Hohoff, saw something special in her work. She recognized the “spark of the true writer” in Lee’s early drafts, even when the structure was imperfect or felt more like a collection of interlinked stories than a polished novel.

Over the next two years, Lee revised, rewrote, and reshaped her stories into the powerful, cohesive novel we now know as To Kill a Mockingbird.

When the novel was finally published in July 1960, it quickly became a phenomenon, praised for its moral insight, warmth, and piercing commentary on race and justice. The success that followed was extraordinary: the book won a Pulitzer Prize in 1961 and has since sold tens of millions of copies around the world.

Legacy of Kindness and Courage

Lee’s relationship with the Browns didn’t make headlines in her lifetime in the way Mockingbird did. They didn’t seek glory or credit in return. Their gift was deeply generous in a quiet, personal way.

Yet without their intervention, it’s entirely possible that To Kill a Mockingbird might never have been written, or might have taken a very different shape, arrived much later, or lacked the polish and depth it has today.

In that sense, the Browns’ gift was foundational. It laid the groundwork for Lee’s creative freedom, gave her the breathing space to develop characters like Scout, Atticus Finch, and Boo Radley, and arguably changed the trajectory of American literature.

Why It Matters Even Today

Beyond its historical importance, this episode in Lee’s life offers a powerful lesson: support matters. Often, creativity isn’t just about talent; it’s about ecosystem. Writers and artists don’t always need more inspiration or more discipline; sometimes, they just need the practical means to do what they’re good at.

Imagine how many potential masterpieces are never written because people haven’t been given a “year off.” How many voices go unheard because of financial pressure or the demands of everyday survival?

Michael and Joy Brown’s gift was more than a Christmas gesture. It was a vote of confidence, a wager on art, and a gift that continued to ripple through generations of readers. It’s a reminder that small acts, deeply rooted in friendship, can yield something extraordinary.

The post The Christmas Gift That Helped Harper Lee Bring Mockingbird to Life appeared first on Magazine.

A Dream Born on Dusty Roads

If you’ve ever wondered whether one person can genuinely change the world, let me introduce you to a man who did it with nothing more than a dream, a handful of books, and a very patient donkey. Luis Soriano, a schoolteacher from rural Colombia, didn’t have much in the way of money or fancy resources, but he had something that proved far more powerful: an unwavering belief in the magic of books.

Growing up in a country where many rural communities didn’t have access to libraries or even basic educational materials, Luis knew firsthand how transformative reading could be. He had seen what stories could spark in a child: imagination, confidence, curiosity. And he also knew how many children never got the chance to turn a single page.

So he did what any determined, slightly eccentric, wonderfully big-hearted person might do. He strapped a library onto a donkey and started walking.

Meet the Donkey: The Real MVP

Now, every hero needs a sidekick, right? Batman has Robin. Sherlock has Watson. And Luis Soriano has… a donkey.

Actually, he had two donkeys over the years, named Alfa and Beto, together sounding like “alphabet,” which is just the most charming detail ever. These four-legged librarians were the muscle behind the mission, carrying crates of books across rugged terrain, narrow paths, riverbanks, and sweltering heat.

It wasn’t glamorous. Donkeys don’t move fast, books are heavy, and Colombian backcountry trails are pretty far from smooth sailing. But every weekend, Luis and his donkey team ventured out, sometimes traveling up to ten hours round-trip, simply to deliver books to children who had none.

It’s basically the world’s most heartwarming bookmobile, only bumpier, dustier, and significantly more adorable… and fueled by carrots!

Biblioburro Is Born

What do you call a roaming library riding on the back of a donkey? Well, obviously, you call it Biblioburro: a mash-up of “biblioteca” (library) and “burro” (donkey). Cute, catchy, and just quirky enough to get people’s attention.

But for the children in remote villages across Magdalena, Colombia, Biblioburro was much more than a fun idea. It was a lifeline to worlds beyond their own. When the donkeys arrived, kids would rush out excitedly, sometimes lining up before Luis even stepped off his mount.

It’s easy to forget how much of a privilege it is to have access to books, whether you order them online or borrow them from a library five minutes away. For the children Luis visited, books weren’t just scarce; they were nonexistent. Some of the communities he traveled to were so isolated that government services never reached them. Many homes didn’t have electricity, let alone bookshelves.

Luis didn’t just bring stories; he brought possibility.

He read aloud to children whose parents had never learned to read. He taught kids that they could dream bigger than their circumstances, all by taking donkeys to their towns. Beyond literacy, though, he brought something less tangible but equally powerful: hope.

Just by turning up, he told the kids he visited: You matter. Your mind matters. And someone believes in your future.

The Teacher Behind the Mission

What makes Luis Soriano’s story especially moving is that he wasn’t funded by any big organization, not at the beginning. He didn’t launch a trendy nonprofit or have a social media following cheering him on. He was simply a teacher who saw a need and filled it.

Was it exhausting? Absolutely.

Did he ever think of stopping? Maybe for a moment. But whenever he reached a village and saw children sprinting toward him, excited and full of wonder, it all became worth it.

Challenges on the Trail

The romantic image of a man and his donkey carrying books across the countryside is lovely, but the reality wasn’t always so poetic. Luis traveled through regions affected by crime and conflict. He was once tied to a tree and robbed. Not to mention, he frequently faced the sheer physical strain of hauling heavy books in intense heat.

But rather than being discouraged, he saw these obstacles as reminders of why his mission mattered. Education, he believed, was a path out of poverty, violence, and hopelessness. In many ways, he wasn’t delivering books; he was delivering resilience.

The World Takes Notice

Eventually, word about this humble traveling librarian spread. Journalists wrote about him. Documentaries were made. Donations began to arrive. Biblioburro became internationally celebrated.

Luis used these resources not for fame, but to grow. He expanded his book collection. A small library was erected near his home. And he trained helpers so the mission could continue even when he needed to rest.

His story inspired similar programs around the world: camel-powered libraries in Kenya, boat libraries in Bangladesh, and even elephant libraries in Thailand. Apparently, the world was full of people and animals ready to carry stories anywhere they were needed.

A Protector Of The Written Word

Luis Soriano is far from alone in his belief in literacy and the power of education. His story is featured in Protectors of the Written Word alongside 24 others who have devoted their lives to sharing the joy of reading.

The book offers a collection of inspiring journeys from around the world, written as a love letter to everyone who believes in the power of books. You can order your copy here.

The post Discover Colombia’s Most Unique Library (Hint: It Involves 2 Donkeys) appeared first on Magazine.

Why He Did It: Because Booksellers Matter

Patterson didn’t just do this as a PR stunt. He genuinely believes that booksellers play a vital role in our world. In his own words: “Booksellers save lives. Period.”

That’s a bold, emotional claim, but hear him out. For him, just like for many of us, bookstores are more than just stores. They’re community hubs, places of refuge, and gateways to imagination. By giving these bonuses, he’s saying thank you and backing up his gratitude with real money.

So, Who Got the Bonus?

The $300,000 was split across 600 people, but who were they, and how were they chosen?

Well, the lucky winners weren’t working for the big chains. They were staff members at all sorts of independent bookstores. Shops like Thank You Books in Birmingham, Alabama, The Nook in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and City Lights Books in San Francisco.

James Patterson worked with the American Booksellers Association (ABA) to choose the winners. People were able to apply, but they were also able to be nominated by their friends, coworkers, customers, and even authors.

Years of Giving

This is far from the first time that James Patterson’s done something like this. He may be an author by trade, but he’s also big on charity. He’s been running a holiday bookstore bonus program since 2015, and, on top of that, over the last couple of decades, he’s donated more than $1.5 million of his own money to stores.

His money, especially during rough times like the COVID-19 pandemic, helped maintain struggling bookstores. In fact, in the early days of the virus, he donated $500,000 specifically for that purpose!

Reactions from the Bookish World

As you’d expect, people are pretty touched. Allison Hill, CEO of the ABA, said she and her team “are all so grateful,” not just for the money, but for Patterson’s “generosity of spirit.”

For workers in small, independent shops, recognition from a bestselling author is more than practical: it’s validating. It tells them that their work matters, that they’re seen, and that someone out there cares deeply about what they do.

Sure, $500 may not sound like a fortune in the grand scheme of Patterson’s wealth, but for many bookstore workers, that bonus can make a real difference, especially over the holidays. And let’s be honest: getting $500 as a surprise nod in a tough, often low-margin retail job? That’s huge.

There are some lovely, concrete examples of who benefited. In Sonoma and Napa counties, for instance, Copperfield’s Books, Napa Bookmine, and Four-Eyed Frog Books each had a staff member receive the bonus.

Four-Eyed Frog saw their manager, Blew, win the prize. In response, she said she was “truly honored,” and went on to say, “I think it’s a wonderful thing that James Patterson does every year; he certainly supports the independent booksellers, and we appreciate his efforts.” When asked what she’ll be using her bonus for, she said it’d be put to good use to pay off bills.

These bonuses don’t just help pay a bill or two; they foster a sense of belonging and appreciation. For many booksellers, working at an independent store isn’t just a job; it’s a calling.

Why This Really Matters

Obviously, it’s great to know people are still out there doing nice things for others, but why does this story really matter?

Well, there are a number of things.

First of all, it shows that people do care. That moral support isn’t gone, and kindness is out there… we just have to look for it. James Patterson isn’t just giving out money because he thinks he should; he’s doing it because he knows it’ll help people, and because these people work hard and help others. If that’s not the spirit of Christmas, I don’t know what is!

For those on the ground, who won the prizes, $500 is loads. Especially at the end of the year, when bills are up, presents are coming, and for booksellers, the festive rush is on their doorstep. That $500 can be the difference between making it through the season and having to take out a loan. This is especially true in independent stores where the income is perhaps not as reliable as the larger chains!

But perhaps most of all, Patterson’s donations matter because they’re part of a longtime tradition of generosity. This isn’t a fleeting gesture or a moment of impulse. James Patterson has spent years donating money to bookstores and booksellers. This commitment shows how much these stores and workers matter to him, but to everyone else, too.

The post James Patterson Gives £300,000 Out to Bookstore Workers appeared first on Magazine.

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

Let’s start with a classic! The Polar Express is practically required reading in December. Its dreamy illustrations and magical train ride to the North Pole are irresistible. Kids love the idea of hearing the bell only true believers can hear, and parents… well, we all get a little misty-eyed at that final line. It’s the perfect book to read before bed on Christmas Eve, and you get bonus points if you ring a little sleigh bell afterward for dramatic effect.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss

No Christmas reading list is complete without the Grinch. Kids adore the rhymes, adults enjoy the humor, and everyone loves watching that grouchy green fellow’s heart grow three sizes. It’s funny, it’s warm, and it has a timeless message that never feels preachy. Christmas isn’t about stuff. It’s about connection. Plus, reading it aloud gives you a free pass to try out your best Grinchy voice. You might not beat Jim Carrey, but you can give it your best shot!

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

Okay, technically, you can’t read this one to your kid because there are no words. That being said, this gentle, wordless picture book is beautiful and bittersweet, and kids are surprisingly captivated by it. The story of a boy and the snowman who comes to life is told entirely through illustrations, which makes it a wonderful book for encouraging children to narrate the story in their own words. It feels peaceful, a little dreamy, and perfect for quiet afternoons when the world outside looks like a snow globe.

Olivia Helps with Christmas by Ian Falconer

If you have a child who relates to the joyful chaos of Christmas excitement, bouncing off the walls, “helping,” and causing just a tiny bit of trouble, Olivia is your girl. This book is funny, slightly mischievous, and full of the kind of real-life moments that parents find a little too relatable. It’s a nice pick when you want something lighthearted that makes everyone giggle.

The Jolly Christmas Postman by Allan and Janet Ahlberg

This one is pure fun. The jolly postman cycles around delivering Christmas letters to fairy-tale characters… and here’s the best part: your kids get to open the letters. There are envelopes, cards, little surprises… the whole thing feels like a little hands-on adventure. If you’re reading with younger children who love books they can play with, this is a winner, and will be sure to keep their attention.

Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson

This sweet story stars Bear, who’s determined to stay awake so he can enjoy Christmas with his friends. It has a soft read-aloud style that’s great for bedtimes and winding down. The illustrations are cozy and warm, and the themes of friendship and giving are perfect for holiday season reminders about kindness.

The Nutcracker by E. T. A. Hoffmann

Every family seems to have their favorite version, some beautifully illustrated, some simplified for younger readers, some traditional and ornate. Whichever one you pick, reading The Nutcracker is a wonderful way to introduce children to a story they might see in ballet form or hear as music throughout December. It’s full of fantasy: toy soldiers, dancing sweets, a battle with the Mouse King, what’s not to love?

Little Blue Truck’s Christmas by Alice Schertle

If you’ve got a toddler or preschooler in the house, this is a joyful pick. Little Blue Truck is back with gentle rhythm, friendly animals, and a sweet Christmas delivery. The last page even lights up, which basically guarantees instant child approval. This is one of those books that toddlers ask for again and again… and again. (At least it’s cute!)

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski

This is the kind of story that makes the grown-ups tear up just a little. It follows a lonely woodcarver who slowly rediscovers joy with the help of a widow and her son. The illustrations are rich and detailed, and the story feels deeper than your average holiday book. It’s especially nice if you have older children who enjoy more emotional storytelling.

Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht

If your family has a tradition of picking out and decorating the tree together, this book will feel wonderfully familiar. The rhyming text has a great rhythm, and the illustrations are festive and lively. It’s basically a celebration of everything that makes decorating the tree feel magical: hauling it home, stringing lights, hanging ornaments, and turning it into the sparkling centerpiece of the season.

The post 10 Christmas Books to Read With Your Children appeared first on Magazine.

The Rise of Modern Book Clubs

In the past four years, Eventbrite, a ticketing website, saw a 350% increase in book club events. And it isn’t just the older generation; many young adults are hosting their own intimate book clubs. This resurgence of in-person book clubs seems a desperate plea for connection and intimacy. Some people claim that, with phones, we are more connected than ever. 

This non-stop virtual ‘connection’ has left many feeling isolated, restricted to their virtual worlds and communities. People want real connection. They yearn for the sharing of ideas and for showing others the soft and delicate parts of their souls. This emphasis upon interconnectedness and community can be perfectly understood through the South African philosophy of Ubuntu.

Understanding Ubuntu: “A Person Is a Person Through Other People”

The Nguni group, part of the wider Bantu language family, uses the term Ubuntu to refer to “humanity.” The Ubuntu philosophy reflects the value of communalism and interconnectedness central to many African communities. For the Nguni, the individual is indisputably connected to their relationships and wider community.

The so-called golden rule of Ubuntu is, “A person is a person through other people.” We are not born with selfhood; instead, we acquire it through social interaction and community. 

How Reading Shapes Identity and Empathy

Reading books is both a show of our identity and a development of it. Many of us can cite a certain book that changed the way we perceived the world, or became a defining moment in our lives, sending us on an alternate trajectory. We seek out art that reflects and challenges us.

However, admittedly, sometimes we get caught in loops of familiarity if we remain isolated. Moreover, with a society so time-poor, we are frightened to ‘waste’ our time on books that we won’t connect with. Here lies the beauty of sharing books or attending book clubs. 

The Intimacy of Sharing Books

When we are close to someone, we are more likely to appreciate their advice. The peculiar specialty about reading something that a loved one has suggested lies in the knowledge that they are giving you part of themselves. The books we loved as children, the ones that we read under the covers after our mothers told us to sleep, are lodged somewhere deep within our chests. To share our favourite books is like baring ourselves open.

Even if we don’t mean it to, our reading habits whisper something about ourselves. Why did you connect to this so deeply? What did it change in you? Even at a book club, when we discuss a novel with a group of strangers, we are allowing our ideas, and therefore a part of ourselves, to be shared. Connection and communities are systems of give and take, not in a transactional sense, but in that they need to be fed in order to nourish. 

A Literary Example: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a historical romance novel published by writers Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows in 2008. The story centres around a book club in Guernsey during the Second World War and is an undeniable celebration of the written word. This novel is primarily a celebration of people, of perseverance, and how much a community can impact who you are.

Like the Ubuntu philosophy, novels like these drive home the importance of sharing and community. They are a testament that people become people through other people. Reading has been proven to develop our empathy and compassion, and the practice of sharing literature can spark discussion and deepen our bonds both to the world and its people. 

Why Sharing Stories Still Matters

Our world can often feel cold and disconnected, despite our countless connected devices. Yet, there exists hope. There is proof that people yearn for more, that we are, in fact, desperate to connect. The desire for book clubs will only continue. It defies this idea that all we do must be for monetary gain; it is a shift from consuming material goods to consuming knowledge. 

Despite how easy it is to fall into pessimism, we cannot help but have hope. The way we read may have shifted over time, but it has remained a vital part of our culture. If this says anything, it says that we still care for others, about their stories and their challenges.

Our development as humans is an ongoing journey, one that requires both individual intellectual stimulation and a thriving community, and sharing books harmoniously allows for both. 

Book clubs may not sound like they are the solution to all the world’s problems, but then again, haven’t community and knowledge been the foundation for any movement of resilience, or stood as the catalyst for any step toward change?

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The Abbey Bookshop

In Paris’ Latin Quarter stands the Abbey Bookshop, founded by a Canadian immigrant in 1989 and specializing in English-language books. Overflowing with over 40,000 new and used books, including many Canadian titles, its tightly packed shelves and narrow passages create a cave of wonders designed for bookaholics.

The shop is recognized for its eclectic, floor-to-ceiling selection, lively community events, and friendly ambiance. During the Christmas season, it becomes a great stop for holiday book shopping, especially with its “Abbey Picks” recommendations to help you choose gifts. And if a title you want isn’t in stock, you can send a request so the shop can help track it down as a present for someone on your list.

Address: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 7PM

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Librairie Galignani

Known as continental Europe’s first English-language bookstore, Librairie Galignani opened in 1801 and has been run by the Galignani family since its founding. Its roots are even older than that, tracing back to a Venetian publishing house established in 1520.

Galignani features elegant wood shelves and well-organized collections in both English and French literature. Its shelves span across two levels, offering plenty to choose from, which makes it an easy place to find a thoughtful book during the holidays, whether you’re picking out a Christmas gift or browsing for a winter read.

Address: 224 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 7PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare and Company is a legendary English-language bookstore across from Notre-Dame and was voted the second most beautiful bookstore in the world by 200,000 people casting their caps into 1000Libraries’ polls.

Though no grand, sweeping structure, this bookstore is filled with beautiful stone flooring and aged wooden bookshelves. It has staff passionate about literature and a great selection of antiquarian volumes. Its café with outdoor terrace is also a great place to sit and enjoy locally sourced baked goods and coffee, making it a perfect spot during the colder season to take in the view of Notre-Dame with a warm drink in hand.

Address: 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France
Opening hours:

Bookshop
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 12PM – 7PM

Café
– Monday to Sunday: 9:30AM – 7PM

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Librairie Jousseaume

One of Paris’ oldest bookstores, Librairie Jousseaume has been situated in the elaborate Galerie Vivienne since 1826. It’s filled with antiquarian and secondhand books, postcards, prints, and other literary curiosities, giving visitors plenty to browse through and many options to choose from as gifts for a booklover.

The interior is close and intimate, with wooden floors and warm lighting that create an atmosphere akin to a wizened philosopher’s study. That sense is only amplified by the owner, who knows the literature like the back of his hand and is happy to help book lovers in search of a well-loved volume.

Address: 45-46-47 Gal Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Sunday: Closed

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Librairie Delamain

Not too far from the Louvre, you can find Librairie Delamain, the oldest continuously operating bookshop in Paris. Founded over two centuries ago, it draws visitors with its charming striped awning, wood-paneled interior, and rich literary history.

Delamain’s collection contains around 25,000 new and older titles, mostly in French, including a tidy little section for rare and antiquarian books. It also hosts literary events such as author meet-and-greets, book launches, and debates, making it a perfect spot during the holidays for readers who enjoy festive gatherings and book-related activities.

Address: 155 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 8PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 7PM

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San-Francisco Book Co.

San-Francisco Book Co. was founded in 1997 by American expat Jim Carroll, selling English-language used books. It’s immediately recognizable by its fire-engine-red storefront (mentioned before in our Parisian book lover’s guide), and it’s filled to the brim with a well-curated selection of secondhand books in English.

Reviewers remark upon bargain prices and helpful service, which makes the shop an especially good stop during the holidays for picking up thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts. Though the inside can be something of a maze, it’s perfect for stumbling upon the unexpected, whether a genre you’ve never tried or a subject you’ve never seen.

Address: 17 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10AM – 8PM

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TASCHEN Paris

Thinking of gifting something to someone who loves both art and books? TASCHEN Paris is a perfect place to look. Run by an art book publisher, this bookstore has an interior both elegant and subtly stylish, with smooth, gently curved columns and a single, long room that says exactly what it needs to and no more. It reflects the bookstore’s careful dedication to all things art, showcasing books on photography, architecture, fashion, and more.

Though most of its collection is in French, it holds some English and German books as well. But even without that, a picture—and art in general—says a thousand words without needing any language at all.

Address: 2 Rue de Buci, 75006 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 11AM – 8PM

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Halle Saint-Pierre

This distinctive cultural center was voted third place by our readers for the most beautiful book cafés in the world, and a single glance inside will tell you why. Halle Saint-Pierre is housed in a striking 19th-century iron-and-glass ex-market hall. Dedicated to off-beat art (particularly art brut and outsider art), it features rotating exhibitions, a specialist bookshop, and a café, making it a great place to visit during the holidays if you enjoy having books, art, and a cozy spot to sit all in one place.

The café side keeps things fresh with vegetarian pastries, while the art they specialize in will keep you on your toes. Just a quick note: the bookshop and center are free to visit, but the exhibitions do have an entry fee.

Address: 2 Rue Ronsard, 75018 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Friday: 11AM – 6PM
– Saturday: 11AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 12PM – 6PM

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Péniche L’Eau et les Rêves

Another hit on our most beautiful book cafés list, Péniche L’Eau et les Rêves, which translates roughly to “The Barge of Water and Dreams,” was voted into fourth place. As a floating bookshop and café, it’s also one of the most unique on the list.

Moored along the Canal de l’Ourcq, it specializes in books about nature, ecology, and travel, its wooden interior peppered with potted plants. It also offers a café with a great view, which plays host to various author events and workshops throughout the year, and during the colder months, it’s a lovely place to spend winter evenings with a warm drink as the canal quiets around it.

Address: 9 Quai de l’Oise, 75019 Paris, France
Opening hours:

Bookstore
– Wednesday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM
– Monday & Tuesday: Closed

Café
– Wednesday to Sunday: 11AM – 7PM
– Sunday brunch: 11:30AM – 3PM (by reservation only)
– Monday & Tuesday: Closed

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Assouline Paris

Assouline Paris is the flagship boutique of the luxury publisher Assouline, known for producing books on art, travel, fashion, and design. As can be expected of an art-centric space, its interior stuns with vibrant red walls and art gallery-esque displays.

Inside, you can find elaborate art books, collector’s editions, and unique accessories, all designed to be both creative and visually appealing. Much of the design feels inspired by multiple cultures, giving an elevated, almost ethereal vibe to the place, and at this time of year, it also offers a range of seasonal picks that make thoughtful gifts.

Address: 35 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:30AM – 7:30PM
– Sunday: 1PM – 7PM

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Brentano’s

This American bookstore is over a hundred years old and was established as a branch of New York’s Brentano’s. Located on the ground floor of Hotel Edouard VII, this store keeps a wide range of English-language books, newspapers, and magazines, plus a neat assortment of stationery and gorgeous little gift items like figurines and photo frames, giving you plenty of options if you’re picking out gifts for your loved ones.

This particular Brentano’s has stood the test of time, surviving wartime closure and various ownership changes, and is a popular draw for tourists and expatriots.

Address: 37 Av. de l’Opéra, 75002 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:30AM – 7PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 7PM

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Comme un Roman

Known for its welcoming staff and expert curation, Comme un Roman offers a wide selection of French literature, magazines, and children’s books, plus a modest assortment of English-language titles.

It’s also dedicated to promoting literary culture, frequently hosting author signings and neighborhood events. Its interior is filled with subtle decorative touches that brighten the place and give it an elegant but not overwhelming atmosphere, one that readily welcomes new visitors and regulars alike, making it a lovely place to stop by during the season.

Address: 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday: 10AM – 7:45PM
– Sunday: 10AM – 1:30PM
– Monday: Closed

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Artazart

Can’t think of what to gift this holiday season? Artazart has you covered. It is half bookstore, half art gallery, its white walls plastered with a wide range of art pieces while books are displayed on tables below.. And no wonder: this is another bookshop that focuses its collection on the visual arts, especially graphic design, photography, and even graphic novels.

Founded in 2000, Artazart keeps local literary and art culture alive with regular events, from author signings to art exhibitions. The shop also features art-inspired gifts, paper goods, and a colorful children’s section, giving you plenty of things to choose from.

Address: 83 Quai de Valmy, 75010 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:30AM – 7:30PM
– Sunday: 11AM – 7:30PM

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Librairie du Passage

This antiquarian bookstore has long since found its home nestled within the elegant Passage Jouffroy. It makes a mark with its ever-changing storefront selection, sometimes displaying gorgeous, decades-old leather-bound volumes, and other times posters or art pieces.

Though most of the collection is in French, it’s still worth a visit just to breathe in the scent of old paper and leather or check out vintage prints, especially if you are looking for a perfect gift for someone who loves vintage or one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s a true treasure trove of secondhand gems; you’ll never know what you’ll find. It also buys and appraises old books for those looking to sell.

Address: 48 Pass. Jouffroy, 75009 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10:30AM – 7PM

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Les bouquinistes de la Seine

Les bouquinistes de la Seine, or “the booksellers of the Seine,” are Paris’s iconic open-air booksellers. They’ve been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991 and can be found along both banks of the Seine River from Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire and Pont Marie to Quai du Louvre.

Booksellers have been peddling their wares along the Seine since the 1600s, and today are best known for their beautiful green color. Today, there are over 200 stalls selling antiquarian books, prints, and postcards, and with so many to wander through, they become a perfect spot to visit during the holidays. Reviewers remark upon bargain prices and helpful service, which makes the shop an especially good stop during the holidays for picking up thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts.

Address: Les quais de la Seine, 75004 Paris, France
Opening hours:
– Monday to Sunday: early morning to sunset
– (Note: as there are 200 booksellers, open/close times may vary.)

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A Humble Beginning & A Lifelong Mission

At the tender age of six, Mohamed Aziz lost his parents, an early tragedy that naturally would cast a long shadow over his childhood. As time went on, things didn’t exactly get easier for Aziz. When he was a teenager, around age fifteen, he realized he couldn’t continue his schooling because the cost was too high. There were textbooks to be bought, and it just wasn’t feasible. As a result, he wasn’t able to finish high school.

Faced with this barrier, Aziz decided to take a different path. He chose to surround himself with books and with reading wherever possible, even if a formal education had eluded him. He often frames his bookstore venture not simply as a business, but as a kind of “revenge” on his childhood of poverty and exclusion, a chance for him to turn the tables by immersing himself in knowledge.

In 1963, he set out with just nine books and a rug under a tree in the medina of Rabat. From these modest roots grew what would become an iconic presence in the city. Over the years, he acquired a small shop and became what many sources call the oldest bookseller still working in Rabat’s medina.

The Daily Routine of a Reader

Picture Aziz perched calmly among piles of books, reading. Not occasionally, but for many hours every day. That’s right, as a bookseller, he spends about six to eight hours daily immersed in reading. The dream, right? He has reportedly read over 4,000 books, and some sources push the figure to 5,000, in multiple languages: Arabic, French, and even English.

His shop is not just a commercial venture. It’s a sanctuary of books. For him, reading is a lifeline: “My life revolves around reading,” he says.

And he means it. He begins his day strolling through the nearby neighborhoods of Rabat, sourcing books, often second-hand or lightly used, from other stores and vendors throughout the city.

Then he returns to his shop, arranges his new titles, and settles into his reading. He pauses only to pray, eat, smoke a cigarette, or assist a customer. On a typical day, he might make only one or two sales.

What’s remarkable is his faith, not just in religion but in literacy. While yes, he studies his red Qur’an before each prayer, he also spends hours worrying about children who are working instead of studying.

A Bookseller in a Country Uninterested in Books

Morocco has long struggled with relatively high illiteracy rates. When Aziz began his book business more than forty years ago, the environment for reading was quite thin. And yet he persisted.

His philosophy is simple: leave his books outside, accessible. His logic: “Those who don’t read won’t steal books; those who can read won’t.”

What’s more, he sells and collects textbooks at very low cost, offering young people access to knowledge when learning materials are often too expensive.

Languages and Lifelong Learning

Aziz could not afford his schoolbooks at age fifteen. But through his lifelong reading habit, he taught himself standard Arabic, French, and Spanish, languages beyond his everyday Darija, the Moroccan dialect. He even attempted to learn German, Italian, and Amazigh (Berber) later on, although literature in those languages is harder to find.

This self-taught multilingual knowledge deepened his connection with readers, travelers, and locals alike. His shelves display books in many languages, and his own reading reflects a hunger for cross-cultural and linguistic exploration.

Why His Story Matters

There’s something profoundly human in Aziz’s story. Here’s a man who, deprived of formal schooling, turned his loss into a purpose. He chose not to despair over what he lacked, but to build what he could give: books, reading, and a space for reflection.

His life reminds us that education isn’t only in classrooms. It inherits texture in street corners, bookstores, and under trees. His shop is like a calm refuge in a bustling medina; you might wander by and see him sitting quietly among stacks of books, reading.

When asked what he needs to be happy, he says simply: a couple of pillows and books. A touching and radical approach in a world of consumerism.

For travelers to Rabat, his bookstore is almost a pilgrimage: not flashy, not ultra-modern, but sincere. It’s a place where the rhythm of reading and living merge.

Stories Like Aziz

Mohamed Aziz is a protector of the written word and a remarkable figure in the world of books. His story is included in Protectors of the Written Word, alongside others who have devoted their lives to spreading the joy of reading across their communities and beyond.

The book gathers inspiring journeys from across the globe and is written as a love letter to everyone who believes in the power of books. You can order your copy here.

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A Little Boy’s Big Idea

Dominic started his mission when he was just seven years old. He saw that “not everyone has a great time at Christmas,” and decided he wanted to do something about it. That alone is noteworthy: most seven-year-olds are caught up in toys, school, friends, and play. But Dominic looked around, noticed a gap, and stepped up.

At age ten, he has successfully donated hundreds of new pairs of pajamas and hundreds of children’s books to local women’s aid shelters and similar organizations, so that youngsters spending the holidays in these environments have something warm to sleep in and a bedtime story to keep them company.

His goal is two-fold: one, to provide a fresh pair of cozy pajamas so that a child in a shelter doesn’t go without; and two, to gift a book, a simple but powerful act of giving the gift of story, imagination, and perhaps escape, when it matters most.

Why Pajamas and Books Matter

At first glance, pajamas might seem like a modest gift, but they carry real significance. For a child in a shelter, things like a fresh pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve can feel like a small spark of normalcy and dignity. It says: you matter, and that things are okay.

The pajamas symbolize warmth, rest, self-care, and comfort. Meanwhile, a book is more than an item: it’s quiet time, possibility, a moment to breathe, imagine, relax. Especially at Christmas time, something fun and a form of escape can mean the world.

When you combine the two, the physical comfort of pajamas and the mental comfort of a book, the importance and worth of the gift simply multiply. Dominic’s approach recognizes that children who are in difficult or transitional circumstances don’t just need material provisions, they need gestures that affirm their worth, their right to comfort, and their right to joy.

How Does It All Work?

While Dominic is the initiator and the face of the effort, it bears noting that any successful donation drive demands organization, consistency, and follow-through. His operation involves collecting brand-new pajamas, gathering children’s books, and coordinating with local shelters.

He also runs a website to spread the word and scale the outreach. The idea that a young child is spearheading a campaign with digital presence, donation coordination, and a clear goal is inspiring. It also shows how young people’s ideas can change so much when they’re given the time of day, the right support, and visibility.

More Than Just Books At Christmas

What makes Dominic’s story even more special and inspiring is that his commitment doesn’t start and end with pajamas and books. When he’s not collecting pajamas, he’s being an activist elsewhere, designing his own T-shirt to spread the word about plastic pollution. The proceeds he gathers from the shirt are donated directly to ocean protection charities.

Dominic’s work, both in climate activism and in children’s welfare, sends not only a wholesome message about the real meaning of Christmas joy and love, but also reminds us that anyone can make a difference.

What Lessons Can We Learn?

There are a lot of lessons we can take from Dominic. He’s so young, doing so much, and making a change for so many people. And yet… it all started so small. We can do just the same thing.

We can start with small acts of kindness, but consistent ones. That’s how Dom got to where he is now, and he’s only been doing it for three years! So this winter, if you want to do something good, why not donate a book? Or offer to volunteer at the local library?

Not only that, we can learn from Dom’s methods. He combined practicality with meaning; the pajamas and the book will mean so much to the people who receive them, but they’re also super useful.

They’re needed. It’s all well and good to offer to turn up at a soup kitchen on Christmas Day, but everyone does that. Do something different, do something practical, helpful.

Finally, Dom didn’t do this alone. After all, he’s only a kid! When it comes to any activism, any change we make in others’ lives, it is so important to remember that we’re better together. Collaborate, work with others whose skills complement yours, and work with people from different backgrounds. Dom works with the shelters, with those around him who help set up his program.

The post This Inspiring Boy Gives Pajamas And Books To Other Kids Living in Shelters appeared first on Magazine.

Books, perhaps more than anything else, embody hygge perfectly. After all, they offer warmth for the mind, solace for the spirit, and a gentle escape from the noise of the world. If you’re craving that feeling, here are ten hygge-inspired reads that perfectly capture it.

Winter Tales by Dawn Casey

This one is a treasure of winter-themed short tales from around the world, beautifully illustrated. According to listing details: “A treasury of stories celebrating the wonders of winter, from North America to Siberia, Scotland, France, Russia, and Norway.” It’s ideal for those evenings when you want to dip into something magical, seasonal, and not too long. The sense of winter wonder (snow-flecked landscapes, quiet fireside moments, folk tales told by candlelight) aligns beautifully with the hygge ethos: comfort, warmth, simple joys.

My Hygge Home: How to Make Home Your Happy Place by Meik Wiking

While this is more of a lifestyle guide than a novel, it’s an absolute must if you’re looking to absorb the hygge vibes and maybe tweak your surroundings. It’s the perfect reading choice when you want inspiration not just for reading but for how you live your winter. The review says: “The author’s guide to making your home the coziest and happiest place it can be.”

Think of it as not just a book to read, but a companion to your winter ritual: layering blankets, lighting the right kind of lamp, slow cooking, and inviting a friend in. It helps you transform your space into a sanctuary.

Nothing Much Happens by Kathryn Nicolai

This book is the embodiment of slow down, rest, breathe. The title says it: nothing much happens, and that’s the point. As the review notes: “As the title suggests, nothing really happens, and that’s exactly why it’s such a lovely book.”

For winter, when the world outside is grey, chilly, or gloomy, a book like this offers the perfect retreat. The pace is gentle, the tone quietly comforting, and the expectation of a dramatic plot takes a back seat to the pleasure of being in the moment. A hygge-read for pure rest.

Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher

Here’s a novel with setting and mood aligned to winter itself. It’s been described as “Almost certainly my favourite choice. Set in Scotland… exceptionally hygge… reads like coming in from the cold to sit by the fire.”

This is absolutely the kind of book you bring into your reading nook, with a hot drink, as dusk settles early. It’s not frenetic; rather, it’s a story of interlinked lives, winter landscapes, and internal warmth.

Collected Works: A Novel by Lydia Sandgren

This one is for when you’re ready for something more immersive, more layered. It is a substantial novel (over 700 pages) set in Gothenburg, Sweden, weaving art, academia, longing, and memory. The Guardian calls it “an outstanding debut… more than 700 pages… utterly gripping” and notes its deep sense of place.

In the stillness of winter, when we may have more time and fewer distractions, a thick novel like this can be a wonderful companion. It is the kind of novel that you settle into and truly become part of the world of the book.

Copenhagen Food by Trine Hahnemann

The smell of cinnamon rolls, warm soup in a rustic bowl, the kind of food that makes you feel “home”. Food is absolutely a strand of the hygge mindset: communal, comforting, and rooted in the winter season. People have said that this is “the best Danish cookery book… for delicious Scandinavian recipes… to warm your bones and soothe your soul on winter days.”

So, if you like the idea of reading and trying something out in the kitchen, this book doubles as both pleasure reading and a practical winter-comfort guide.

Roast Figs, Sugar Snow: Food to Warm the Soul by Diana Henry

Back to food and creating warmth, this cookbook is blissfully cozy and warming for the soul, and is “perfect to enjoy on cold winter days, especially around the festive season.”

It’s a hygge-inspired book not only to flick through, but to interact with: to browse, to plan a weekend of cooking, to use as a springboard for inviting others round. Cooking together, sharing food, candles burning… it’s all part of the hygge tapestry.

Scandinavian Comfort Food: Embracing the Art of Hygge by Trine Hahnemann

Yet another hygge-inspired cookbook, this one is packed full of soups. Soups that will warm your spirit and make you feel cozy on the inside and the outside.

A Line in the World by Dorthe Nors

This is a memoir about a year spent traveling along the North Sea coast, wild, raw, then returning. It’s not traditionally hygge, but it has been described as “Hygge in a different way” with “stories of belonging, of coming in from the cold and wild weather…”

For the contemplative reader who wants reflection, movement, the wildness of winter nature balanced by the refuge of home, this book offers something soulful.

The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country by Helen Russell

This memoir explores what the Danish way of life, which gives rise to hygge, is like. It’s been called the “perfect cozy memoir to read in winter for hygge vibes.” It is the story of a woman moving to Denmark and finding a life for herself in the country of cinnamon buns, LEGO, and dismally dark yet hygge winters.

The post 10 Hygge-Inspired Books to Keep You Cozy This Winter appeared first on Magazine.