11 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Picks

Reese Witherspoon has made a name for herself not only as an accomplished actress but also as an avid reader and book lover. With her book club, she has introduced readers to a wide range of compelling stories and talented authors. In this blog post, we'll explore 11 books recommended by Reese Witherspoon herself. So, grab your reading glasses and get ready to dive into these captivating reads!

1. "Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "I can’t even express how much I love this book! It’s about a young woman named Kya, who’s left to raise herself in the marshes of North Carolina when her family abandons her at a young age. There is so much to her story: romance, mystery, and a murder... and it takes place in the breathtaking backdrop of the South. I didn’t want this story to end!"

In this enchanting novel set in the marshes of North Carolina, young Kya Clark finds herself abandoned by her family at a tender age. Left to navigate the challenges of the marshland, Kya's story unfolds with elements of romance, mystery, and even a murder. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the South, Delia Owens weaves a captivating tale that will transport you into the depths of Kya's world.

2. "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: “A beautiful novel that’s full of forbidden passions, family secrets and a lot of courage and sacrifice.”

Travel to Havana in this beautiful and immersive novel that unravels the lives of two women from different eras. In 1958, Elisa Perez, the daughter of a sugar baron, embarks on a forbidden love affair amidst Cuba's growing political unrest. Fast forward to 2017, where Elisa's granddaughter, Marisol, travels to Havana to honor her grandmother's last wish. As Marisol uncovers family secrets, she finds herself immersed in a captivating story that spans generations and continents.

3. "Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "It’s a mystery, a romance, a family drama… and yes, it’s spicy! This is a story about liberating women at every age, and empowering them to express their hopes, their dreams and what makes them feel good. Most of all, it’s about how women across all generations can come together to change their community. Get ready, book club, this month is going to be a journey!"

Step into the world of Nikki, a young woman in London who takes a job teaching a creative writing course for Punjabi widows. However, due to a miscommunication, the class becomes an outlet for the women to share their fantasies and untold stories. As the women liberate themselves through their writing, they come together, challenging societal norms and empowering each other. Balli Kaur Jaswal's novel is a compelling blend of mystery, romance, and the transformative power of community.

4. "Happiness: A Memoir" by Heather Harpham

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "There’s heartbreak, joy, and lots of love—I won’t give it away, but trust me: have your tissues ready. This month’s book pick is going to put you on an emotional rollercoaster! I really loved this memoir, and I know you will too! A shirt-grabbing, page-turning love story that follows a one-of-a-kind family through twists of fate that require nearly unimaginable choices."

Prepare for a moving and heartfelt memoir that explores the depths of love, heartbreak, and the choices we make for our families. Heather Harpham takes readers on her journey as a young mother faced with unexpected challenges when her daughter is born with a life-threatening illness. Through moments of heartbreak, joy, and unimaginable choices, Harpham's memoir showcases the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.

5. "You Think It, I’ll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "I really loved all the characters in this book. They’re so complex and interesting, and in every story, you’ll find them going through these pivotal moments in their lives. Oh, Hello Sunshine is developing a TV series based on this collection. Can’t wait to hear what you think!"

In this collection of short stories, Curtis Sittenfeld delves into the complexities of human relationships and the pivotal moments that shape our lives. Through a diverse set of characters, each story offers a unique perspective on class, relationships, and gender roles in contemporary society. With Sittenfeld's sharp wit and keen insight, this collection will leave you pondering the intricacies of the human experience.

6. "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "A psychological thriller that captivated me from page one. While scuba diving on their honeymoon in Bora Bora, newlyweds Mark and Erin make a shocking discovery...one that unfolds into a wild, page-turning ride!"

Follow the thrilling journey of Erin, a documentary filmmaker, and her husband Mark during their dream honeymoon in Bora Bora. While scuba diving, they stumble upon something shocking in the water, forcing them to make a dangerous choice. As their secret unfolds, the couple becomes entangled in a chain of events that will test their relationship and lead them down a dark and suspenseful path.

7. "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "This love story spans decades and continents as two star-crossed lovers try to return to each other. Life, motherhood, and distance get in the way. Will they ever meet again? This book kept me up at night, turning the pages to find out. Can’t tell you the ending but definitely have tissues close by! I loved it!"

Join Lucy and Gabe, two individuals who meet in college and embark on a journey of love and self-discovery. However, as life takes them on separate paths, their connection remains, even as they find themselves continents apart. Jill Santopolo's poignant novel explores the complexities of relationships, fate, and the enduring power of first love.

8. "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "It’s the ultimate mystery set in LA. An artist goes missing at the height of her controversial career, and the plot keeps you guessing who’s responsible. Was it a stunt or is she in danger? You won’t know who to trust, and that ending… I won’t say any more!"

Immerse yourself in the art world of Los Angeles as avant-garde artist Kim Lord goes missing just before the opening of her groundbreaking exhibition, "Still Lives." The novel follows Maggie Richter, an editor at the museum, who becomes entangled in the investigation. As Maggie delves deeper, she questions those closest to her and uncovers a world filled with secrets, lies, and unexpected twists.

9. "Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "Brené Brown writes about how divided our world is politically, socially, racially, and how we can bridge that divide with more civility and consciousness. Listening is key. Compassion is key. I learned so much about communication from this book, and I hope you will too!"

In this thought-provoking book, renowned social scientist Brené Brown explores the disconnection plaguing our society and offers insights on how to bridge the divide. Through research, storytelling, and honesty, Brown challenges our notions of belonging and introducespractices that foster true connection, compassion, and integrity. "Braving the Wilderness" is a powerful guide for navigating a world marked by polarization.

10. "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "Every once in a while, I read a book that opens my eyes in a way I never expected. It’s a book about family: childhood, parenthood, and the sometimes-heartbreaking decisions that come with it. As a mother, this story absolutely tore at my heartstrings. I can’t wait for you to read it!"

Delve into the heartfelt and thought-provoking story of a family facing a life-altering secret. Rosie and Penn have five boys, but their youngest, Claude, dreams of being a girl. As they navigate the complexities of raising a transgender child, the family grapples with keeping Claude's identity a secret and the eventual explosion that follows. Laurie Frankel's novel is a moving exploration of acceptance, identity, and the profound love that binds a family together.

11. "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones

Reese Witherspoon's recommendation: "When Emily meets Adam, she thinks she’s found the one—but it’s not long before another woman tries to ruin their relationship. And folks… that woman is HIS MOTHER. I can’t wait for y’all to read it because I NEED to discuss that ending with you!"

Emily thinks she has found the perfect man in Adam, but little does she know that another woman is determined to come between them—Adam's mother, Pammie. As Pammie's relentless interference intensifies, Emily finds herself entangled in a battle with a woman who will stop at nothing to protect her son. Sandie Jones weaves a suspenseful tale of manipulation, secrets, and the lengths a mother will go to for her child.

These captivating descriptions, along with Reese Witherspoon's personal recommendations, provide an enticing overview of each book's themes and appeal. Whether you're seeking an immersive mystery, a heartwarming love story, or a thought-provoking exploration of family dynamics, these Reese Witherspoon Book Club Picks offer a diverse range of engaging reads. Happy reading!