Are you a fan of the lost art of letter writing? Whether you’re looking for inspiration, guidance, or just a good read, there’s a book on letter writing out there for you. From historical collections of famous correspondence to modern guides on expressing yourself through the written word, the world of letter writing books is rich and diverse. In this article, we’ll explore the 20 best books about letter writing that every enthusiast should have on their shelf.
Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay is a captivating novel that follows the story of Samantha Moore, a young woman who finds solace in the art of epistolary communication. The book expertly weaves together themes of love, redemption, and the power of words as Samantha seeks guidance and support through the letters she writes to her mysterious benefactor, known only as Mr. Knightley. As Samantha navigates the challenges of her past and present, she learns valuable lessons about the impact of honest communication and the healing nature of letter writing. With its compelling storyline and rich character development, Dear Mr. Knightley is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a heartfelt and thought-provoking book about letter writing.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is an epistolary novel set in post-World War II England. The story unfolds through a series of letters exchanged between the characters, revealing their experiences during the German occupation of Guernsey. As Juliet Ashton, a writer, corresponds with the members of the book club, she uncovers their resilience, humor, and the power of literature to bring people together during challenging times. The book presents a heartwarming and poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the healing power of storytelling. With its charming and endearing characters, this novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good book about letter writing and the enduring impact of the written word.
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff is a charming collection of letters exchanged between Hanff, a writer in New York City, and the staff of Marks & Co. bookstore in London. The correspondence begins with Hanff’s inquiry about rare books and soon blossoms into a 20-year friendship. Through their letters, the reader witnesses the development of a deep bond based on a shared love of literature. Hanff’s wit and humor shine through her letters as she navigates the challenges of acquiring books from post-war England. The book offers a heartwarming and nostalgic look at a time when letter writing was the primary means of long-distance communication. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of written communication and the joy of connecting with others through the written word.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the emotional journey of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager, as he navigates the challenges of high school. Through a series of letters to an unnamed friend, Charlie shares his experiences, struggles, and moments of self-discovery. The book delves into themes of friendship, love, mental health, and the complexities of adolescence. Chbosky’s poignant storytelling and intimate writing style make this book a compelling and heartfelt read. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a touching book about letter writing that captures the raw emotions and vulnerability of the teenage experience, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys introspective and deeply affecting narratives.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that follows the life of Celie, an African American woman in the early 20th century. The book is written in the form of letters, revealing Celie’s struggles, triumphs, and growth as she navigates through abuse, racism, and sexism. The novel explores themes of sisterhood, resilience, and the power of self-expression. Through the book on letter writing, readers witness Celie’s transformation as she finds her voice and learns to assert her own identity. Walker’s poignant storytelling and the letter writing book format make The Color Purple a deeply moving and unforgettable read.
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis is a captivating and thought-provoking book on letter writing. It is a collection of fictional letters between a senior demon, Screwtape, and his nephew, Wormwood, offering advice on how to tempt and corrupt a human soul. Through these letters, Lewis provides a unique perspective on human nature, morality, and the battle between good and evil. The book offers insightful commentary on the complexities of human relationships and the temptations we face in our daily lives. With its clever and witty approach, The Screwtape Letters is not just a book about letter writing, but a profound exploration of the human condition that is sure to leave readers pondering long after the last page.
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, Aged 13 ¾ is a hilarious and heartwarming coming-of-age novel written by Sue Townsend. The story is told through the diary entries of Adrian Mole, a quirky and lovable teenager navigating the ups and downs of adolescence. The book offers a humorous and insightful glimpse into the mind of a young boy as he deals with family drama, first love, and the challenges of growing up. Adrian’s candid and witty observations make for a delightful read, offering a unique perspective on the trials and tribulations of teenage life. With its endearing protagonist and relatable themes, this beloved classic is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a peek into the world of adolescence.
The Divorce Papers by Susan Rieger is a captivating novel that unfolds through a series of letters, emails, and legal documents. This innovative format gives readers an intimate look into the lives of the characters as they navigate the complexities of divorce. The story revolves around the personal and professional life of Sophie Diehl, a young and ambitious lawyer who finds herself representing a high-profile client in a messy divorce case. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is drawn into a world of love, loss, and legal battles, all conveyed through the art of correspondence. Rieger’s skillful storytelling and unique approach make The Divorce Papers a compelling and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in a book about letter writing and its impact on relationships and the legal process.
The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett is a charming novella that takes readers on a delightful journey into the world of literature and the unexpected joy of reading. The story revolves around the Queen of England, who stumbles upon a mobile library and is introduced to the pleasures of reading. As she becomes increasingly engrossed in books, her newfound passion for literature begins to transform her perspective on life and her role as a monarch. Alan Bennett’s witty and insightful exploration of the power of books and the transformative nature of reading will captivate readers of all ages. This book is a delightful ode to the joy of reading and a gentle reminder of the profound impact that books can have on our lives. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who appreciates a heartwarming and thought-provoking story.
The Juliet Club by Suzanne Harper is a heartwarming novel that takes readers on a journey to Italy, where a group of women run a club dedicated to answering letters sent to Shakespeare’s Juliet. The story follows a young American girl, Kate, who finds herself immersed in the enchanting world of Verona and the art of epistolary communication. As she delves into the letters and the club’s mission, Kate discovers the power of words and the impact of letter writing on human connections. This delightful book about letter writing captures the essence of love, friendship, and the magic of communication through the written word. The Juliet Club is a charming and uplifting read that will leave readers with a renewed appreciation for the timeless art of correspondence.
The Year of Living Danishly by Helen Russell is a captivating exploration of the Danish way of life. The author, a British journalist, delves into the secrets behind Denmark’s status as the happiest country in the world. Through her humorous and insightful observations, she uncovers the Danish cultural values of hygge (coziness), work-life balance, and social welfare. Russell’s engaging writing style and personal anecdotes make this book a delightful and informative read. Whether you’re interested in Scandinavian culture, self-improvement, or simply seeking a change in lifestyle, this book offers a fascinating look at how the Danes prioritize happiness and well-being. It’s a must-read for anyone curious about the Danish approach to living a more fulfilling life.
The Wednesday Letters by Jason F. Wright is a heartwarming novel that revolves around the tradition of writing letters. The story follows the lives of Jack and Laurel Cooper, who discover a series of Wednesday letters written by Jack to Laurel throughout their marriage. As they unravel the contents of these letters, they come to understand the depth of their love and the challenges they’ve faced. The book delves into the power of communication through the written word and the impact of letter writing on relationships. It’s a poignant and moving tale that emphasizes the importance of expressing our thoughts and emotions through the art of correspondence. The Wednesday Letters is a captivating book on letter writing that inspires readers to appreciate the beauty of written communication and the enduring legacy of love.
The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily by Laura Creedle is a captivating young adult novel that tells the story of two teenagers who find connection through the art of correspondence. Abelard, a boy with ADHD, and Lily, a girl with dyslexia, navigate the ups and downs of high school while discovering a shared love for letter writing. As they exchange letters, they explore their feelings, fears, and dreams, allowing their bond to grow stronger with each new communication. This heartwarming book about letter writing explores the power of written words to bridge the gap between two individuals and the profound impact of self-expression through the written word.
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes is a captivating historical novel that weaves together the lives of two women, decades apart, through the discovery of a letter. This poignant story explores themes of love, loss, and the power of the written word. With its richly drawn characters and compelling plot, this book on letter writing is a heart-wrenching tale that will keep readers engrossed until the very end. Through the art of correspondence, Hughes delves into the intricate emotions and connections that can be forged through letters, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a beautifully written book about letter writing.
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a captivating novel that delves into the world of floriography, the language of flowers. The story follows Victoria, a young woman who has aged out of the foster care system and struggles to connect with others due to her tumultuous past. Through her love and knowledge of flowers, Victoria finds solace and a way to communicate her feelings. The novel beautifully weaves together the meanings of different flowers with the complexities of human emotions, ultimately exploring themes of love, forgiveness, and second chances. With its heartfelt storytelling and intricate exploration of the language of flowers, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of nature and the intricacies of human emotions.
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating coming-of-age novel set in 1960s South Carolina. It follows the journey of 14-year-old Lily Owens as she escapes her abusive father and sets out to uncover the truth about her mother’s past. Along the way, she finds refuge in the home of three beekeeping sisters, who introduce her to the mesmerizing world of beekeeping. As Lily delves deeper into the mysteries of her mother’s life, she discovers the power of female relationships, the importance of forgiveness, and the resilience of the human spirit. This heartwarming tale of love, loss, and redemption is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. With its beautifully written prose and poignant storytelling, The Secret Life of Bees is a must-read for anyone looking for a novel that will linger in their hearts long after the final page is turned.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a poignant and powerful account of a young girl’s experience hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Anne’s diary is a remarkable insight into the thoughts and emotions of a young girl living in such extreme circumstances. Through her diary, Anne Frank expresses her fears, hopes, and dreams, as well as the everyday challenges of living in confinement. The diary is not just a historical document, but also a timeless story of resilience and the human spirit. It is a must-read for anyone interested in history, the Holocaust, or the human experience. The Diary of a Young Girl is a timeless and moving book about letter writing that continues to resonate with readers around the world.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of African American maids in 1960s Mississippi. Through the perspectives of three remarkable women, the book sheds light on the racial tensions and injustices of the time. The story unfolds as aspiring writer Skeeter Phelan decides to compile the stories of these courageous women, defying the norms of society. The novel explores themes of friendship, courage, and the power of storytelling to bring about change. The Help is a poignant and thought-provoking book that will inspire readers to reconsider the roles we play in our society. With its powerful narrative and compelling characters, this is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human relationships and the struggle for equality.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a charming novel set in post-World War II England. The story unfolds through a series of letters exchanged between the characters, making it a delightful book on letter writing. The protagonist, Juliet Ashton, a writer, receives a letter from a man on the island of Guernsey, sparking a correspondence that leads her to uncover the island’s captivating history. As she delves deeper into the lives of the islanders, she discovers the power of friendship, resilience, and the written word. The book about letter writing is heartwarming, humorous, and poignant, offering a unique perspective on the aftermath of war and the healing power of letter writing.
Letters to a Young Poet is a captivating collection of correspondence between renowned poet Rainer Maria Rilke and a young aspiring writer. This book on letter writing offers timeless wisdom and guidance on the creative process, solitude, and finding one’s own voice. Through his intimate and profound letters, Rilke shares his insights on the challenges and joys of the artistic journey, offering invaluable advice to the young poet. This book about letter writing is a testament to the power of mentorship and the enduring relevance of Rilke’s words, which continue to inspire and resonate with readers today. Whether you are an aspiring writer or simply seeking profound reflections on life and art, this letter writing book is a must-read for anyone seeking guidance and inspiration.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to explore the art of Letter Writing, these 20 best books about letter writing are a must-read. From guides on crafting the perfect letter to collections of famous correspondences, these books offer valuable insights and inspiration for anyone interested in the power of written communication. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned letter writer, these books are sure to enhance your skills and deepen your appreciation for the written word.
Which Letter Writing book is best?
The best book on Letter Writing can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Letter Writing?
For those looking to learn about Letter Writing, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Letter Writing are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Letter Writing books of all time?
Choosing the best Letter Writing books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
