December is a month to honor several remarkable authors whose works span centuries and genres. From classic storytellers who shaped literature to contemporary writers exploring fresh narratives, these December-born authors offer something for every type of reader. Let’s celebrate with book recommendations for your next cozy read.
1. Jane Austen (December 16, 1775)
- Known For: Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Emma
- Why Read Her? Austen’s witty and insightful explorations of love, family, and society have remained beloved for generations. Her characters and themes resonate just as much today.
- Library Picks: Emma for charming humor and satire, or Persuasion, a reflective tale of second chances.
2. Colson Whitehead (December 6, 1969)
- Known For: The Underground Railroad, The Nickel Boys, Harlem Shuffle
- Why Read Him? Whitehead’s books masterfully weave social commentary into gripping narratives, highlighting resilience and courage in the face of systemic struggles.
- Library Picks: The Underground Railroad, a Pulitzer-winning alternate history novel, or Harlem Shuffle, a crime thriller set in 1960s Harlem.
3. Emily Dickinson (December 10, 1830)
- Known For: Collected Poems of Emily Dickinson
- Why Read Her? Known for her introspective poetry, Dickinson’s works touch on nature, life, and mortality. Her unique voice and themes of solitude and self-reflection are perfect for winter reading.
- Library Picks: Look for The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson for a comprehensive collection of her work.
4. Rainbow Rowell (December 24, 1973)
- Known For: Eleanor & Park, Fangirl, Carry On
- Why Read Her? Rowell’s novels capture the experiences of young adulthood with warmth and authenticity. Her stories are heartfelt and relatable, appealing to both teens and adults.
- Library Picks: Eleanor & Park, a moving romance about two outcasts finding connection, or Fangirl, a coming-of-age tale that celebrates fandom and self-discovery.
5. Rudyard Kipling (December 30, 1865)
- Known For: The Jungle Book, Just So Stories, Kim
- Why Read Him? Kipling’s adventurous stories for both children and adults transport readers to rich, imaginative worlds, with tales that have become cultural touchstones.
- Library Picks: The Jungle Book for a classic adventure, or Kim for a more introspective look at British India.
6. Tana French (December 10, 1973)
- Known For: In the Woods, The Likeness, The Witch Elm
- Why Read Her? French’s atmospheric and character-driven mysteries are celebrated for their psychological depth. Her books provide suspense with a literary edge.
- Library Picks: In the Woods, the first in the Dublin Murder Squad series, or The Witch Elm, a standalone thriller.
7. Patricia Highsmith (December 19, 1921)
- Known For: Strangers on a Train, The Talented Mr. Ripley
- Why Read Her? Highsmith’s dark, suspenseful novels examine complex characters and moral ambiguity, perfect for fans of psychological thrillers.
- Library Picks: The Talented Mr. Ripley, a psychological suspense novel featuring her famous antihero, or Strangers on a Train, a thriller with a twist.
From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, these December-born authors offer stories for every reader’s taste. Pick up one of their books this month to honor their legacies and discover something new. Visit the library to explore these works!
