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A-List Reads: Must-Read Books Loved by Your Favorite Celebs

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SJSU chapter.

Picking your next read can go one of two ways. You either know exactly which book your going to pick up next, sticking strictly to your TBR lineup. Or, if your anything like me, your all over the place, maybe even subtly enjoying the delightful chaos of literary spontaneity.

Your room is a landscape of scattered and stacked books you are skipping and sorting through, but none of them seem just right for your current mood. The allure of beautifully crafted book recommendations flooding Instagram, the amazing character fanart on Pinterest, and the enticing snippets of books showcased on BookTok only add to your indecisiveness, leaving you with endless options and yearning for the perfect read to escape into and captivate your wandering literary heart.


I have a solution and an end to any book-picking struggle. Ever wondered what your favorite celebrities are reading when they’re not making us fawn over every crumb they drop on the big screen or stage? Well, I’m going to explore the bookshelves of some of everyone’s favorite stars and see what stories have captured their hearts and minds. Let’s not waste any more time and dive into a curated list of book recommendations straight from the shelves of your beloved celebs.

Emma Watson: Little Women

A timeless classic. “Little Women” by Lousia May Alcott is one of Emma Watson’s favorites. Not only does she love this book, but she even starred in the 2019 live-action film. This story is like a warm hug for your soul. It blends the charm of sisterhood with the trials of growing up.

This book follows four different sisters as they navigate love, dreams, and the rollercoaster of life during Civil War-era America. It’s the perfect mix of sisterhood, self-discovery, feminism, and 19th-century vibes. This read is such a great one because everyone will be able to identify or recognize themselves within at least one of the characters.

It truly is timeless and speaks to so many audiences, especially young women. Reading this one will make you laugh, cry, and desperately want to be part of the March family. Little Women is not just a book; it’s a heartwarming tale, a cozy retreat into the world of bonds, love, and discovery.

Audrey Hepburn: The Secret Garden

Magic and mystery. When I tell you you can reach literary wonderland through this book, I’m not kidding. “The Secret Garden” is the perfect read if you’re in need of some escapism. Francis Hodgson Burnet makes actual magic with her words, making you forget you’re just reading words printed on paper.

“The Secret Garden” was one of Hepburn’s all-time favorites. In this book, the main character, Mary, is a sassy little girl who discovers a hidden garden that’s practically something you’d find straight off of Pinterest. This story is filled with childhood wonder and self-discovery. You won’t find anything as enchanting and empowering as “The Secret Garden,” so take it from Hepburn and set time aside to pick this one up.

Cillian Murphy: The Butcher Boy

Cillian Murphy sure knows how to pick a book. “Butcher Boy” by Patrick McCabe is a heartbreaking work of art. This book, set in a 1960s small town in Ireland, follows a young Francis Brady, who steps back into a violent fantasy world in order to escape from his troubled home life. This story is honestly wild, exploring the thin line between reality and imagination, making you question what’s normal and what’s not. This is definitely worth reading.

In the ever-evolving realm of celebrity preferences, exploring their favorite books offers a peek into the literary worlds that captivate their attention. These celebrity-approved reads not only entertain but also resonate with universal themes. Whether you’re seeking classic vibes or a touch of magic, these recommendations are going to add a personalized touch to your TBR. So, dive into the pages that have left a lasting impression on the stars and make picking your next read a lot better. Because let’s face it, finding your next great read is even more thrilling when it comes with a bit of celebrity flair.


What book is next in line on your TBR? Let us know, @HerCampusSJSU!

My name is Janessa Villicana, a second-year student at San Jose State University majoring in English - Concentration in Professional and Technical Writing with an Advertising minor. I plan on eventually taking my studies abroad to experience the beauty of new places, people, and cultures while simultaneously working towards my degree. As a writer for the SJSU Her Campus Chapter, I love sharing my love for books, reading, authors, and latest book trends and updates through my articles. Books and reading are an important part of my life, they even helped kindle my dream of one day working in book publishing. I am very interested in the world of publishing and am always trying to learn more about the industry. The creative process of writing and editing and strategic aspects of marketing and distribution all amongst a team of book lovers have always fascinated me. I am very eager to one day immerse myself in every part that brings stories from authors to readers. My passion for reading is also more than my personal enjoyment, I am a big advocate for adolescent literacy. I believe that emphasizing reading and writing competence in education and cultivating a love for reading in youth is crucial for their development and the future of storytelling. Prior to joining Her Campus, I served as a volunteer at my community library and hosted a bookclub catered to teenagers. In my free time I also enjoy watching movies and shows, working out, spending time with friends and family, and of course shopping for books at pretty bookstores. I'm excited to continue sharing my experiences and insights through my writing for Her Campus!