The Best Beach Read for Your Zodiac Sign, According to Astrologers
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Beach season is almost here and nothing beats lying out on the sand and letting go of all of your worries. Going to the beach is also the perfect excuse to get some reading in. You can relax, enjoy the sounds of the sea, and let a book transport you into another world. But whether you’re drawn to memoirs or the latest sci-fi series, knowing what book to pick up can be a bit of a struggle. Luckily, we reached out to some astrologers who weighed in on the best beach read for your zodiac sign. Keep reading to find out which book should go in your beach bag this summer.
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Penguin Publishing Group
Aries are natural-born leaders who are not afraid to go after what they want in life. Beach Read (a very aptly named book for these purposes) by Emily Henry aligns nicely with their characteristics, focusing on embracing all of life’s challenges and taking control of your own destiny.
January, the main character of this book, finds herself facing uncertainty and has to learn how to make important decisions after dealing with trauma. Plus, it’s got some romance mixed in, which is great for Aries’ fiery spirit and passionate side .
Rachel Clare , a professional astrologist at Mystic Sense , says “the protagonist’s choice to take charge and embrace new challenges resonates deeply with Aries’ inclination to assert their independence, seek personal growth, and proactively create the life they desire.”
Penguin Publishing Group
Tauruses are without a doubt lovers of luxury . Gilt by Jamie Brenner , which is centered around a family-owned jewelry company, is an unmatched beach book for these earth signs.
“It’ll engross Taurus’ need for material comforts, all the way to the beautiful Provincetown backdrop, which becomes a character of the story in its own right,” says Ryan Marquardt , astrologer and founder of Ryan’s Astrology .
The book spans over different generations and has strong themes of betrayal and forgiveness. As a sign who is incredibly loyal, Taurus can appreciate the family dynamic, as well as a bit of drama that comes with that.
Between the significance of sentimental possessions , the need to know yourself and your worth, and Brenner’s captivating writing, Tauruses are sure to lose themselves in Gilt .
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Simon and Schuster
Gemini is represented by twins, which symbolizes their dual nature and multifaceted personality. They need something that grabs their attention, as they tend to get distracted easily, and The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren , a fast-paced, lighthearted rom-com, will do just that.
This book offers a dual perspective as the story unfolds through the eyes of both the female and male main characters, who don’t like each other at first and are forced on a vacation together.
“Ultimately, Gemini readers [will] explore contrasting viewpoints that resonate with their inherent ability to see multiple sides of a situation,” says Clare.
These twins are also ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication and “ The Unhoneymooners captures the essence of Mercury’s influence through its sharp, witty dialogue and intelligent humor,” says Clare.
Simon and Schuster
Cancer is a family-oriented sign always looking for ways to care for those close to them. The Summer Place by Jennifer Weiner invokes the feeling of a warm hug thanks to the close family ties and coastal setting. Mix Weiner, one of the quintessential beach read authors, and Cancer’s introspective nature, and you’ve got book pairing made in heaven. Plus, with summer in the title, how could you go wrong?
This water signs will feel all the feelings—they always do—and will reflect on their own life as they read. “Ultimately teaching about the power of forgiveness and healing, Cancers will appreciate the book’s nurturing tone, commitment to family ties, and beautiful character journeys,” says Marquardt.
Simon and Schuster
As folks who are fans of the spotlight, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid might just be the perfect match for Leo. “They are ruled by the radiant Sun and belong to the element of fire, embody boundless passion, creativity, and an exuberant zest for life,” says Clare—so they’ll definitely resonate with Evelyn Hugo, the title character.
They’ll be captivated instantly as the book follows a beloved Hollywood starlet and her experiences with all of life’s glitz and glamorous moments (as well as the not-so glamorous ones). Leo loves attention themselves, so they’ll feel right at home reading about someone who’s the star of the show .
These lions will be transported easily to Evelyn Hugo’s world. Clare says their imagination will be set ablaze reveling in the realms of fame, ambition, and the exhilarating story of creative expression.
Penguin Publishing Group
Virgos are practical earth signs who enjoy things that keep them tied to reality. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a perfect match for these detail-oriented realists.
The book follows Eleanor Oliphant as she navigates life’s everyday obstacles with a more methodical approach. Like Eleanor, Virgo is meticulous and analytical—and you know they love being right.
“Readers will appreciate the story’s attention to detail and its exploration of the human experience through a grounded lens,” says Clare. They’ll also like the routines Eleanor keeps, and will find comfort in a character who’s a bit stubborn like they can be at times.
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Penguin Publishing Group
Libra is a romantic at heart who adores a good love story. Since they’re the sign of balance, they’ll value Meant to Be by Emily Giffin , as its focus is finding harmony in different relationships.
The story takes readers through the battle of weighing the consequences when difficult choices are at play, as well as the ability to forgive and offer second chances. These peacekeepers will devour this book because it matches their energy and outlook on life.
“Libra’s prefer a lighthearted tone when reading, so they’ll enjoy that this book never gets too dramatic or intense, but it doesn’t shy away from tugging at the heartstrings either,” says Marquardt.
Meant to Be dives into themes of identity and social justice, but also showcases the struggle of being authentic when everyone around you expects something different— which makes it a must-read for these air signs.
Simon and Schuster
Scorpios are drawn to mystery and the darker parts of life. If they’re choosing to be on the beach instead of being comfortably at home, they’re going to need something to really capture their attention. Picking a fast-paced book with a mystery-thriller vibe is sure to keep them entertained because they have quick minds and need reading material that will match that energy. The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave packs a punch with its intense storyline and shadowy themes.
“The book’s exploration of loyalty, trust, and the quest for truth will resonate with Scorpio, who often deal with the delicate balance between keeping secrets and being transparent in their personal lives,” says Marquardt. Plus, the book will keep them on the edge of their seat, thanks to all the suspense and revelations, which you know they love piecing together.
Penguin Publishing Group
Sagittarius is a mutable sign which means they’re incredibly flexible and willing to adapt to any new situation. They’re open-minded and constantly looking for new experiences which is why Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is a great choice.
The book follows Gilbert as she travels across India, Italy, and Bali to rediscover herself and find more balance in life. Clare says they’re bound to enjoy the author’s personal journey and the themes of exploration and growth will resonate with them. “Sagittarius readers will appreciate the book’s emphasis on embracing change, expanding horizons, and the transformative power of embracing new perspectives,” she says.
Harper Collins Publishers
Capricorn, a strong-willed earth sign that’s ruled by Saturn, should have The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho on their beach read list. The story dives into a ton of life lessons, but also gives these signs a chance to relax through the immersive setting Coelho creates.
“Just as Saturn teaches us the value of hard work and the rewards of diligent effort, The Alchemist emphasizes the transformative power of personal growth and the importance of embracing one’s unique path,” says Clare.
It might be a more intense book than some other signs would choose, but you know Capricorns are pretty serious most of the time. It doesn’t matter if they’re out of office, they want to gain knowledge from the books they read, and this story will do just that.
Clare says they will also “deeply appreciate the book’s exploration of self-mastery, as it aligns with their innate sense of responsibility and ambition.”
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Macmillan Publishers
As a sign that hates to be put in a box, Aquarius needs a beach read that not only stimulates all parts of their mind, but also crosses into more than one category. Marquardt says The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth , a genre-bending book that blurs the lines between truth and deception, is a great fit for these air signs.
With a suspenseful story that has lots of twists and turns, as well as a ton of psychological intrigue, it’ll definitely make this air sign think. The plot is unpredictable and reveals people’s hidden motivations, which feeds into Aquarius’ interest in understanding the nuances of human nature.
“It’s not an easy book to describe or define, making it even more worthwhile for Aquarius, because they don’t like having to explain themselves to other people,” says Marquardt.
Macmillan Publishers
No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister is a perfect fit for Pisces because the book is told through a bunch of short stories that are all interconnected.
“Pisces can grasp abstract concepts and find meaning in things better than any other sign, but they find the most success when they have a general reference point, directions, or structure to help guide them a bit,” says Marquardt.
This is a book about books—to put it simply—and while others might avoid this for a beach day, it just makes sense for Pisces. These fish find beauty in things that others don’t necessarily appreciate. Once they see that all the stories are interconnected in some way, they’ll be doing what they do best and escaping reality.
“It’s hard to even recommend this as a book that Pisces should read, because they’ll view it as much more than just a book, and they’ll experience it as something bigger than simply reading,” says Marquardt.
The 10 Best Audiobooks for Your Next Road Trip
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Packing up the car and heading out on a road trip is a rite of passage. Many of us remember our first road trip as a kid, when we loaded up our suitcases to venture out toward a new destination. Maybe you also hit the road with friends after college, or have taken your kids on a road trip of their own, seeing the sites or exploring different national parks . But if you’re spending hours in the car—no matter who you’re with—you need something to pass the time. Music and podcast episodes can only cover so many miles, which is why you might be in the market for an audiobook.
According to Hayley Yager , bookstagrammer and blogger of Backpacking Bookworm , there are a few key factors that go into selecting the right audiobook for a road trip. To maximize your listening experience, she recommends looking for “engaging and authentic narrators,” who will keep your attention. Second, consider the genres or types of books you’re most interested in. Podcast-lovers might prefer a non-fiction pick, and if you’ve always wanted to learn about some historical or contemporary figure, a biography or memoir could be a great option. Fiction is also a great option, and you’ll find a plethora of different stories that you can immerse yourself in on a long drive.
If you’re having trouble making the right call, travel experts and book bloggers have recommended some of their top audiobook choices, which you can either purchase or borrow from your local library. Read on to find out what you should be listening to while on the road.
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Audible Studios
Anything by renowned nonfiction author Bill Bryson is worth a read or a listen. He writes about complex concepts—including the intricacies of the human body and the history of the universe—but does so in an accessible, often comical way. Of Bryson’s many worthy reads, Anthony Presti , travel writer of ValueQuack, recommends The Lost Continent: Travels in Small-Town America .
“Follow Bill on his cross-country road trip in the United States. From the backwoods of Kentucky to the badlands of South Dakota, Bryson covers it all in this hilarious account of his journey,” Presti says.
Bryson travels across 38 states in total over the course of the travelogue, as he searches for the perfect small American town—and you’ll be waiting to see if he finds it. “If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud book to listen to on your road trip, this is the one for you,” Presti says. “It is one of the funniest books you’ll ever read, whether at home or on the road.”
Random House Audio
If you love a good modern mystery, The Flight Attendant is a solid choice for your next road trip. Full of suspense, this story follows Cassie, a binge drinker who finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation. It’s also been turned into a popular show on HBO Max, so you can engage in the age-old debate of book versus TV series when you’re done listening.
“Why not infuse a little ‘travel talk’ into your travels? With the release of the new HBO show based on this novel, I wanted to give the book a try before watching it,” Bryan Mullennix , founder of the travel website Feeling Vegas, explains. “It’s a suspenseful novel and makes for a good road trip audiobook because of how it is written and also the fact that it kind of relates to travel.”
This audiobook has three narrators, meaning you’ll hear different voices for different characters in this chilling and thrilling read. Looking for something even darker? You might want to opt for Yager’s thriller pick, The Night Swim by Megan Goldin .
Macmillan Audio
If you just want to be transported to another world, let TJ Klune take you there by listening to Under T he Whispering Door . Klune has quickly become a mainstay in the fantasy genre, often featuring LGBTQ+ characters. Under The Whispering Door also adds a splash of romance, humor, and some more intense themes of grief and loss.
John Hubbard , founder and CEO of the outdoor blog Urban Dare, recommends Under The Whispering Door if you want something that will truly keep your attention. “The audiobook gives you all types of feeling with every character’s unique and suitable voice,” he explains, adding that Kirt Graves , a well known audiobook reader and audio producer, narrates. “It provides a great message from life and love to death with its lovable characters.”
Hubbard recommends this for a long drive, “as it will take some time to understand the deep questions Klune’s tale poses throughout.” The audiobook has a listening length of 14 hours and 54 minutes, so it’ll get you through a good stretch of your trip. “Some listeners might find the audiobook a bit slow at the start,” he notes. “It is better to listen at 1.5 speed until you begin to understand the plot of the story.”
Random House Audio
If you’re choosing a memoir for a long-haul drive, Yager recommends selecting one that is recorded by the author. “In my experience, stories are brought more to life when read by the person who knows the book better than anyone,” she tells Best Life , suggesting Becoming by Michelle Obama as a notable choice.
The former First Lady narrates her memoir, discussing her childhood all the way through her time in the White House and after. You’ll feel connected to Obama when listening to her tell her story, and if you needed any more convincing, she won the 2020 Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album for her audio edition of the book.
If you’ve already checked Becoming off of your reading list—it was, after all, the best-selling book of 2018—Presti also recommends Barack Obama’s 2020 memoir A Promised Land . “It chronicles his upbringing, his time in office, and the challenges he faced throughout his presidency,” he says. “It’s an inspiring story that will leave you feeling hopeful and motivated—perfect for a road trip where anything can happen.”
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Pottermore Publishing
One of the most beloved series of all time centers on a young wizard named Harry Potter. The stories have captivated young and old readers alike since Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was first published in 1997. Presti recommends this audiobook for your next trip on the open road, especially if you’ve got your kids in tow.
“If you’re looking for a book the whole family can enjoy on your road trip, look no further than Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ,” he explains. “With its magic, adventure, and suspense, this book is sure to keep everyone entertained on a long car ride.”
As The Sorcerer’s Stone is the first installment in the seven-part series, you might also want to bring Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets along as well, just in case the kids (or you) can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Macmillan Audio
While you can’t watch a rom-com while you’re driving, you can certainly listen to one. Yager recommends The Switch , which is set in the U.K. and features a plot line that might remind you a little of the movie The Holiday . The story focuses on a newly-single grandmother looking for love in the rural town of Yorkshire and her granddaughter, who has become exhausted by life in London. The two decide to switch places, and drama, romance, and comedy ensue.
The audiobook is read by two English actors, Daisy Edgar-Jones , of Normal People and Where the Crawdads Sing , and Alison Steadman , award-winning stage, film, and television star.
“This is an easy and light listen with two celebrity narrators, which evokes familiarity,” Yager says. “The chapters are the perfect length, enabling you to get invested in one storyline before moving on to the next when the narrators switch.”
You can listen to this 10-hour audiobook on a longer drive, but Yager notes that you can also “dip in and out for shorter trips.”
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Random House Audio
Some stories are classics for a reason, and even if you haven’t picked up a copy of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy , odds are you’ve heard of it. First published in 1979, it was adapted from author Douglas Adams’ radio series and follows the journey of the only man to survive after earth is destroyed.
“Full of laughs, science fiction, and awesome ’70s and ’80s references, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is the perfect audiobook for a road trip,” Tim White , CEO and founder of the travel site MilePro, says. This pick is more “lighthearted,” he adds, making it a good choice for those who don’t want an audiobook that’s too intense.
The book is just under six hours long, White points out, making it optimal for shorter journeys. It’s also narrated by English actor and broadcaster Stephen Fry , so you might recognize a familiar voice.
Harlequin Audio
Another one of Yager’s fiction picks is The Funny Thing About Norman Foreman , which has all the necessary components of a family comedy—think Little Miss Sunshine with a twist.
“This is the perfect road trip listen as the book itself revolves around a family taking a detour-heavy road trip up to Edinburgh so 12-year-old Norman can perform at the Fringe,” she says.
For those unfamiliar with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, it’s the largest arts festival in the world, dating back to 1947. In this contemporary fiction novel, young Norman is hoping to take his comedy act to center stage at the event. “It’s an absolute rollercoaster of one hilarious feat after another, yet still manages to retain every ounce of authenticity,” Yager says. “It’s a feel-good book that anyone can enjoy, making it perfect for a long road trip.”
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Hachette Audio
For those who want an audiobook that is chock-full of different stories, check out David Sedaris’ When You Are Engulfed in Flames .
“If you’re looking for a more introspective, thought-provoking read, When You Are Engulfed in Flames is the book for you,” Presti tells Best Life .
Sedaris narrates the audiobook himself, and you’re sure to be entertained by his wit as he covers topics that range from ridiculous to deeply insightful. “It’s a hilarious and poignant look at the human condition that will have you thinking about it long after you’ve finished reading,” Presti says. “Follow as David travels the world and tries to make sense of it all.”
Random House Audio
Ernest Cline’s fantastic 2011 novel Ready Player One is a must-read—or listen, in this case—for anyone interested in gaming, virtual reality, or just science fiction in general.
“If you’re looking for a lighthearted, fun book to keep you entertained on a road trip, look no further than Ready Player One ,” Presti says. “This science fiction novel follows the story of Wade Watts, a teenager who finds himself thrust into a virtual world in search of an Easter egg that will grant its finder ultimate power and control over the world. Along the way, he makes allies and enemies as he fights to be the first to find the egg.”
The novel has also been adapted into a film directed by Steven Spielberg , but the book has significant differences. S0, even if you’ve seen the movie, you should still give the book a go. “It will have you laughing, crying, and cheering—the perfect way to pass the time on a long car ride,” Presti says.
