When I was a little girl, Valentine’s Day meant chocolate, construction paper cards and heart-shaped cookies. As an adult, I’ve come to understand the holiday holds a more significant meaning (although I’m still indulging in chocolate this February). Valentine’s Day is a reminder to celebrate the love in our lives. This reminder exists year-round in our favorite stories as well. Whether you’re searching for a new romantic read or an old favorite this holiday, CDPL offers a diverse collection of books that will put you in the perfect mood to craft a construction paper Valentine.
If you’re seeking a modern fairy tale, you might enjoy “Red, White and Royal Blue” by Casey Mcquiston (FIC McQui), in which the U.S. President’s son develops feelings for his royal rival. You may also want to try “A Princess in Theory” by Alyssa Cole (FIC Col), which features a modern twist on “Cinderella.” In this reimagining, an African prince goes undercover as a commoner to win his true love over.
If you are in the mood for a love story as timeless as it is romantic, Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” (FIC Aus) is a universally beloved classic. You can even check out its film adaptation starring Keira Knightley (DVD Fic Pri). While you’re at it, you may want to try “Bridget Jones’s Diary” (FIC Fie) for a more modern and humorous twist on the “Pride and Prejudice” formula.
The Young Adult section at CDPL is filled with valuable lessons about love fit for all ages. In the “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” trilogy by Jenny Han (YA FIC Han), Lara Jean must confront each of her crushes when someone sends them her private love letters. “The Upside of Unrequited” by Becky Albertalli (YA FIC Alb) is a new addition to the YA collection and a follow-up story to Albertalli’s “Simon Vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda” (YA FIC Alb). Both books contain messages about self-acceptance, healthy friendships and first love. If you’re a fan of the popular Broadway musical “Hamilton,” you will likely fall in love with “Alex and Eliza” (YA FIC DelaC) by Melissa De La Cruz.
Flipping through a graphic novel can be a wonderful way to unwind after a busy holiday. Thankfully, CDPL’s graphic novel section provides a number of enchanting reads. “Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me” by Mariko Tamaki (GN FIC Tam) is an honest and heartfelt take on toxic relationships and the true love that exists where we sometimes forget to look. For a dash of nostalgia, you might pick up “Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon” (GN FIC Tak v. 1). This well-known manga follows a group of magical girls as they encounter evil and a romantic interest or two along the way.
For an even broader selection of romantic stories, stop by CDPL to browse our ever-expanding collection of books, DVDs, CDs and more. You can find a few of our staff’s favorite heartwarming reads on the displays on our second floor and in our Young Adult section. Even more recommendations in all genres can be found among our “Staff Picks,” located at the Circulation desk.
I hope you fall in love with a new favorite read this Valentine’s Day!
Noel Marquis is a youth library assistant at the Crawfordsville District Public Library.
