10 BOOKS YOU MUST CURL UP WITH, THIS MONSOON: MOST BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL FICTION READS!

PAGE & PEN

7/15/20257 min read

When the thick fluffy clouds overcast the sky and rains are all set to pour, the tiny droplets kissing the earth and spreading a rousing scent of petrichor, there's nothing better than comforting yourself with a cup of coffee/chai in a cozy nook, curling up with a good spellbinding book and enjoying the most pleasurable moment of your life. Because excuse me! who says that books are just to give knowledge? They actually exist to give pleasure and uplift your mood as well.

This monsoon dive into the world of heartwarming romance, magical fantasy, psychological thrillers or any literary fiction adventures. Here's a list of 10 books that are my favorites and will take you on a fascinating journey on any drizzly day.

BOOK 1- THE BLUE UMBRELLA (BY RUSKIN BOND)

This novella will take you to the mountains of India into serene and soothing village setting with a vivid descriptions of the landscapes. The characters, story and the writing style revolves around the theme of innocence, kindness, jealousy and generosity. Although this book is meant for children, adults too can read and elevate their reading experiences. This is a pretty heartwarming tale of a young village girl- Binya who falls in love with the blue umbrella that adds nostalgia and a rainy vibe with a short and sweet story that will abide forever in your hearts. I absolutely adore whenever people ask me about a beginner friendly book to read and I always recommend this book to anyone who wants to start reading because after all, we all grew up listening and reading fascinating stories.

BOOK 2- MUSAFIR CAFE (BY DIVYA PRAKASH DUBEY)

This Hindi literature read is about two individuals who are navigating the complexities of city life, societal pressure and the challenges of relationships yet they have the courage to chase one's dreams. Its set against the pleasing landscape of Mussoorie where a couple enjoy the evening with each other's company over a cup of chai. The main highlight of the book is to find purpose of one's life. This story is about self-discovery, growth, emotional impact and chemistry between the two protagonists in the quaint hills of beautiful Mussoorie. Their conversations, dialogues, thoughts, struggle and confusion will keep you hooked. Its a refreshing read featuring the realistic portrayal of relationships rather than compromising with their dreams and lives.

BOOK 3- BANARAS TALKIES (BY SATYA VYAS)

This story available both in Hindi and English is a cozy, fun, humorous read. This book will take you on a merry journey through the hostel life of Banaras Hindu University-a law school. It revolves around the friendship and drama of three friends and their hostel life, each vividly portrayed with their unique personality making the story a complete entertaining package. Drenched in nostalgia by the beauty of Banaras lanes and ghats with a perfect blend of humor and emotions, this book has engaging storyline, relatable characters and will take you back in your college life's adventures and misadventures in a delightful way. Its a perfect lighthearted read for anyone who wants to enjoy the quirkiness of students life.

BOOK 4- LALLAN SWEETS (BY SRISHTI CHAUDHARY)

If you are a Bollywood movie freak then this book is perfect for you. Lallan sweets is all about life's simple pleasure with a touch of love, family bonds and the sweet little moments in life. It revolves around passing the family business of sweets by the grandfather to their grandchildren not through inheritance but challenging them to compete and complete mystery tasks to find out the magic ingredient that he's been using to maintain reputation and quality of his famous sweet shop. Tara and her childhood friend/crush Nikku set out on a quest to complete the tasks and compete against the opposite party and while competing, they go through a lot of adventures, learnings and answers. The story takes different twists and turns with a nostalgic 90's backdrop that definitely makes it a perfect heartwarming cozy read awaiting for you all to give it a shot.

BOOK 5- THE SILENT PATIENT ( BY-ALEX MICHAELIDES)

What if I told you that you can create a perfect ambience with a gripping, suspenseful storyline along with the sound of raindrops outside. If you’re looking for a thrilling read on a drizzly day that is well crafted, easy to understand and make it impossible to put the book down, then you must read The Silent Patient.

This book is a page turner where a wife, who is a famous painter, shoots her husband and remain silent in a forensic unit under the care of a psychotherapist. The psychotherapist then uncovers the secrets of her family that will blow your mind. This story will keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat till the end with its twisty plot and complex characters. Its a beginner friendly read, do give it a try.

BOOK 6- MALGUDI DAYS ( BY R.K. NARAYAN)

Malgudi days is a book on short stories that are set in a small fictional town of Malgudi, near an Indian village. This book depicts the everyday life of people that is beautifully described in a captivating narratives. The author has highlighted the heart and soul of that village showcasing the characters and their challenges relatable and feel real. This book has it all- drama, emotions, humor, innocence, tragedy and everything that makes it worth reading. Every story is fascinating in its own way and will make you laugh, cry and reflect on your life. The stories in this book were made into serials too and no doubt the author did captured the hearts of people with his journey through the village. So, this book definitely creates a warm and intimate atmosphere that will transport you in a different world and will complement the rainy weather.

BOOK 7- WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR IS IN THE LIBRARY (BY MICHIKO AOYAMA)

If you are into magical realism, interconnected stories with different characters and a Japanese setting, then this book is right for you. This book is about a mysterious library set in a small Tokyo neighborhood that has elements of magical realism. It talks about five characters at different stages of life struggling with their own different challenges and surprisingly they happen to visit the same library and come in contact with a mysterious librarian. The librarian then recommends books to them that change their lives magically. This book is based on the theme of hope, self-discovery, human spirit. Its a captivating and inspiring book to read if you want to gain inspiration with a touch of magic through the lens of Japanese literature.

BOOK 8- INDEPENDENCE (BY CHITRA BANERJEE DIVAKARUNI)

This book is set in 1946-1947 during India's riotous partition. Its about three sisters and their unbreakable bond. India when on the brink of independence and partition, the sisters found themselves on different paths that changed their lives forever. Its a thought provoking read that will take you straight to the historic period in India and you will feel the characters and their experiences so real as you might have seen in movies and documentaries. Its a complete roller coaster of emotions with a seamless narrative that will evoke strong emotions, patriotism, sisterhood and eternal connection from within. This book is definitely a go to read for any showery day.

I vividly recall the day when I got this book two years ago when it rained heavily in Delhi. I was at Connaught Place and miraculously, I somehow managed to grab the book and bring it home without a single drop of rain touching it. However, I finished reading the book in just three days, completely absorbed in its captivating world.

BOOK 9- GHOSTS OF THE SILENT HILLS (BY ANITA KRISHAN)

If you want to create a setting for a spine-tingling read then grab this book ASAP. Its a collection of short stories based on true haunting that will transport you to the north eastern remote places. The stories are a bit spooky with an Indian touch suitable for horror lovers. There's a lot of supernatural suspense and eerie descriptions that you will definitely enjoy. Few stories have the ability to provide a quick scare and will allow you to take breaks, allowing to savor the suspense/horror. Grab this book and get into a cozy yet spooky factor to send shivers down your spine.

BOOK-10 THE HUNDRED-YEAR-OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT OF THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED (BY JONAS JONASSON)

Last but not the least, if you want to read a unique blend of humor, adventure and historical fiction then this book's been waiting for you. The story's lighthearted and humorous tone will keep you engaged and curious. It will take on an adventurous journey filled with laughter and excitement. The protagonist's carefree attitude and the urge to find freedom will make you appreciate life and its unpredictability. So, give this book a try to add the sense of coziness and comfort and make your time fly by.

To conclude with, as the rain washes away the world outside and the sound of the rain bring you joy and comfort, let these amazing books transport you to a new world with their unforgettable stories and interesting characters. Happy Reading!