7 Best Cottagecore Books You Need To Read In 2025

In a world dominated by screens, deadlines, and constant digital noise, the cottagecore aesthetic has emerged as a soothing antidote—a celebration of simplicity, nature, and the slower rhythms of life. Rooted in pastoral nostalgia, handcrafted creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world, cottagecore has captivated readers, artists, and dreamers alike. One of the best ways to immerse ourselves in this enchanting lifestyle is through literature. Books can transport us to sun-dappled forests, cozy cottages, and fields of wildflowers, offering both inspiration and guidance for embracing a gentler, more mindful way of living.

Below is a list of 7 best cottagecore books you need to read in 2025. Each selection is accompanied by a detailed review to help you understand why it resonates with the cottagecore ethos.

1. "The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett

The Secret Garden tells the story of Mary Lennox, a lonely and spoiled child sent to live with her uncle in a large, mysterious estate. When she discovers a hidden, neglected garden, her curiosity and care breathe life back into it, transforming not only the garden but herself. The novel is a celebration of growth, renewal, and the restorative power of nature. Burnett’s descriptive writing brings the garden and surrounding countryside vividly to life, immersing readers in sunlit landscapes and blossoming flowers. This timeless story invites readers to slow down and reconnect with nature and the small wonders around them.

2. "Wildwood" by Colin Meloy

Wildwood follows the adventures of Prue and her friend Curtis in an enchanted forest outside Portland, Oregon. The story blends magical realism with ecological awareness, exploring the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Meloy’s lyrical descriptions bring forests, rivers, and wildlife vividly to life, immersing readers in a fantastical yet grounded environment. Themes of courage, curiosity, and connection to nature permeate the narrative, inspiring readers to respect and explore their surroundings. With intricate world-building and compelling characters, Wildwood captures the adventurous side of cottagecore, offering both imaginative excitement and a gentle reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing nature.

3. "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau

Walden is Henry David Thoreau’s reflective account of living deliberately in a small cabin near Walden Pond. Over the course of two years, Thoreau immerses himself in nature, observing its rhythms, studying its details, and simplifying his lifestyle. His prose combines philosophical musings with practical insights on self-sufficiency, solitude, and intentional living. Readers are encouraged to slow down, appreciate natural beauty, and question the excesses of modern life. Thoreau’s contemplations on water, forests, wildlife, and seasonal changes offer a meditative reading experience that aligns with the cottagecore ideal of connecting deeply with the natural world while finding clarity and purpose in simplicity.

4. "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

Little Women follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—growing up in rural New England during the 19th century. Alcott’s novel celebrates family bonds, creative endeavors, and the satisfaction of simple pleasures, from baking to sewing to quiet evenings by the fire. Each sister’s personality brings unique warmth and perspective, inspiring readers to embrace personal growth alongside domestic joys. The story captures the beauty of seasonal changes, cozy homes, and nurturing relationships, immersing readers in a life paced by empathy and care. It’s a heartfelt exploration of love, ambition, and the enduring charm of everyday life.

5. "The Shepherd’s Life" by James Rebanks

The Shepherd’s Life offers an intimate look into modern shepherding in England’s Lake District, blending memoir and historical reflection. James Rebanks recounts his experiences tending sheep, working with the land, and preserving traditional practices passed down through generations. The book captures the rhythm of rural life, from seasonal cycles to early mornings in the fields, painting a vivid picture of dedication and connection to nature. Readers gain insight into the hard work, quiet rewards, and profound satisfaction of living in harmony with the land. It’s both an educational and soulful narrative that inspires appreciation for simplicity, resilience, and authenticity.

6. "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Braiding Sweetgrass combines scientific knowledge with Indigenous wisdom as Robin Wall Kimmerer explores humanity’s relationship with the natural world. Through essays on plants, soil, and ecological stewardship, Kimmerer emphasizes gratitude, reciprocity, and observation, encouraging readers to slow down and engage mindfully with the environment. Her poetic prose interweaves personal anecdotes, cultural teachings, and scientific insight, creating a deeply reflective reading experience. The book inspires readers to see nature as a teacher, cultivating care, responsibility, and wonder. It’s both educational and soulful, offering guidance on living harmoniously with the earth while nurturing a sense of appreciation for its intricate beauty and life cycles.

7. "A Year in Provence" by Peter Mayle

A Year in Provence chronicles Peter Mayle’s experiences after moving to rural Provence, France, highlighting seasonal life, local cuisine, and the region’s unique characters. Mayle’s writing blends humor, sensory detail, and practical observation, inviting readers to experience the rhythms of small-town life. From gardening and cooking to encountering eccentric neighbors, the memoir captures the pleasures and challenges of embracing a slower, more intentional lifestyle. The vivid descriptions of lavender fields, sunlit terraces, and bustling markets immerse readers in Provençal charm. It’s an inspiring tale for anyone wishing to savor the beauty of rural living and appreciate the art of everyday moments.

Conclusion

Cottagecore is more than an aesthetic; it’s a philosophy that invites us to slow down, savor simplicity, and reconnect with the natural world. The 7 books we’ve explored offer windows into this lifestyle—from pastoral classics to contemporary reflections on rural living. They provide inspiration, guidance, and a gentle reminder that joy often resides in small, mindful moments: a sunlit garden, a handwritten letter, a home-cooked meal, or the quiet companionship of the natural world.