Written by Tabitha and reviewed by our team. Tabitha is a Kortext student ambassador at the University of Exeter.
It’s that time again – World Book Day is here! Every year on the 6th of March, book lovers come together to appreciate the power of literature.
Whether you’re a classic novel enthusiast, a fantasy fanatic, or a sucker for emotionally devastating fiction, there’s something about a great book that sticks with you.
So, in the spirit of World Book Day, here are some of my absolute favourites: books that have shaped me, made me cry, and kept me up way too late at night.
1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Yeah, it’s a classic, but don’t let that scare you. Pride and Prejudice is basically the original enemies-to-lovers romance, complete with biting social commentary and razor-sharp dialogue. Elizabeth Bennet is an icon – strong-willed, intelligent, and not afraid to stand up to a guy with a serious superiority complex. Mr. Darcy? Frustrating but loveable. If you’re into slow-burn romance and female independence, this one’s for you.
2. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Imagine a dreamlike, aesthetic-filled, magical circus that appears without warning and disappears just as mysteriously. That’s The Night Circus. This book is all vibes, lush descriptions, hypnotic storytelling and a love story that unfolds in the most poetic way. If you like fantasy but don’t want something too heavy, this is perfect for escapism.
3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
I will never recover from this book. The Book Thief is narrated by Death (yes, really) and follows a young girl, Liesel, growing up in Nazi Germany. She steals books, finds solace in words, and builds an unlikely but beautiful connection with those around her. It’s heartbreaking, powerful and absolutely worth the emotional turmoil.
4. Circe by Madeline Miller
If you love mythology or just enjoy a strong female lead, Circe is must-read. This book reclaims the story of the infamous sorceress from The Odyssey, showing her journey from being cast aside to becoming a literal force to be reckoned with. The writing is gorgeous, and Circe’s story is one of self-discovery, power, and survival in a world that constantly underestimates her. Basically, it’s Greek mythology with a feminist twist.
5. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Hollywood glamour, a legendary actress with a scandalous past, and a love story that’ll wreck you, what more could you ask for? This book reads like a juicy tell-all interview but delivers some seriously emotional moments. Evelyn Hugo is an unforgettable character, and her story is filled with ambition, sacrifice and complicated relationships.
6. 1984 by George Orwell
If you ever feel like everything is a bit too dystopian, 1984 will make you realise it could be much worse. Orwell’s masterpiece is a terrifying look at a world of constant surveillance, propaganda, and thought control. It’s unsettling but so relevant in today’s world, making it a must-read for anyone interested in politics, media, or the power of language.
7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
This book is one of those rare stories that’s both incredibly moving and painfully relevant. Through the eyes of Scout Finch, we see themes of racial injustice, morality and growing up in the American South. Her father, Atticus Finch, is one of the most iconic literary characters, representing integrity and justice. If you want a novel that challenges your perspective while still being a beautifully written coming-of-age story, this is it.
Why World Book Day actually matters
World Book Day isn’t just about dressing up as your favourite character (although, if you want to, go for it!). It’s about making reading accessible, sparking conversations and reminding us why books matter.
Books let us step into different perspectives, challenge our thinking, and can provide the perfect escape from the overwhelm of uni life. Reading isn’t just a hobby, it’s an experience.
Whether you’re the kind of person who speed-reads fantasy trilogies in a weekend or someone who has a growing stack of to be read books that you swear you’ll get to, today is a reminder of why we love stories.
Final thoughts
If you’ve made it this far, you’re either a fellow bookworm or just here for recommendations, either way, I respect it.
So, what’s your go-to book? The one that made you laugh, cry, or rethink everything. Share your recommendations, and let’s keep the bookish conversation going.
Happy World Book Day! 🎉📚
