In The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams, lonely widower Mukesh and disaffected teen Aleisha form an unexpected bond through a list of recommended novels they discover in their local library. As they read together, their shared emotional journey helps them cope with their respective grief and loneliness, ultimately leading to personal growth and community connection. The book contains references to death by suicide.

Readers who enjoy deep, emotional connections through literature, similar to The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin, will appreciate The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams. This book is ideal for fans of intertwining character journeys and the transformative power of books.

Sara Nisha Adams' The Reading List has received commendations for its heartwarming narrative and rich character development. Critics praise its exploration of the healing power of books in building connections. Some noted the pacing could be slow at times, but overall, it’s regarded as an uplifting read that resonates emotionally with readers.

Heartwarming / Nostalgic / Inspirational / Emotional / Contemplative

Sara Nisha Adams

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Reading List and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Reading List Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Reading List Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger” 

Prologue-Part 1

The Reading List Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee” - Part 3: “Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier”

Parts 2-3

The Reading List Parts 2-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini” - Part 5: “Life of Pi by Yann Martel”

Parts 4-5

The Reading List Parts 4-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen” - Part 7: “Little Women by Louisa May Alcott”

Parts 6-7

The Reading List Parts 6-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8: “Beloved by Toni Morrison” - Part 9: “A Suitable Boy, by Vikram Seth”

The Reading List

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Reading List?

Reading Age

Book Details