It’s that time of the year when I start seeing signs of spring on my screen, but not quite yet here in Maine. Yesterday, as I was scrolling on my phone, I saw cherry blossoms blooming in DC and a warm, idyllic Sunday afternoon in Florida where it was warm enough to wear a sundress. Meanwhile, here in Maine, it snowed all day.
But the essence of spring is here. The vernal equinox arrived last week, and we have our own small signs of spring here. This morning, as Dean and I shuffled out the door at 7:30 am to drop the car off for an inspection, it was a crisp 30 degrees. But the sun was shining and the birds (!) were chirping.
Spring may be slow to arrive here in New England; it takes us a little longer to wake up from winter hibernation than our southern friends, but I’m starting to channel its energy.
I’m keeping our dining room table adorned with fresh tulips and daffodils each week, swapping soups for the occasional salad, and I’m breaking out some of my lighter sweaters (though keeping the heavy ones in reach, I’m not totally naive).
This year, I’m still reading seasonally but doing it a tad differently. In the past, I’ve leaned into books set in the season to read seasonally. And while I may still do that, this year I’m thinking more about matching my reading to my energy for the season.
And it’s worked well so far. Winter, to me, is a quieter and more introspective time. And I can see that reflected in the books I picked up. I leaned towards more literary, slower books and found myself craving longer reads.
Now, as the days stretch a little longer each day and we head into the season of new releases, I’m turning my reading attention towards new releases. I’m reaching for books that feel a little lighter and lighthearted. I want fresh, inventive stories, ones filled with joy and laughter. All while still seeking out great writing and stories that dig deep into what it means to be human.
Below are the eight new releases at the top of my list this spring. These are the ones I’m most excited about and think are worth adding to your TBR, too.
Paid subscribers get access to the full reading list (the good stuff). I’d love to have you here.
