Last week’s snowstorm gave many of us an unexpected excuse to slow down, stay inside, and reach for a good book. At the same time, we were reminded of a story that feels especially fitting this season. A Columbus resident named Dan kept a handwritten list of every book he read, starting in the 1960s. When he passed away, his children donated that notebook to the Columbus Metropolitan Library, where it now lives on digitally as What Dan Read.
Inspired by both the storm outside our windows and Dan’s lifelong love of reading, we asked our team to share the books they turn to in winter. Some are snowy by nature, some are pure escape, and some are simply favorites that feel right this time of year.
Here is what our team recommends:
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Agatha Christie is an all-time favorite for one of our team members (and a fellow Virgo, which feels important to note). This pick was chosen specifically because the characters get snowed in, which fits perfectly with the theme of the blog this week. The snowdrift becomes more than a setting. It is an unexpected interruption that changes the course of events and highlights how small moments can have lasting consequences.
The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden
For readers who love fantasy and folklore, this trilogy, including The Bear and the Nightingale, The Girl in the Tower, and The Winter of the Witch, is a favorite winter re-read. Set in a world shaped by cold landscapes and old myths, these books are perfect for long, dark evenings and readers who enjoy immersive storytelling.
Mini-Forest Revolution: Using the Miyawaki Method to Rapidly Rewild the World by Hannah Lewis
With so much turmoil in the world, this book feels especially restorative. It tells the story of people around the globe, including in the United States, who have worked together in their communities to plant small forests using native trees. It is a hopeful reminder of how collective action can help bring balance back to our environment.
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
An obvious choice for our resident fantasy reader. Tolkien’s epic series is the gold standard of fantasy, offering a richly built world, unforgettable characters, and a story that balances adventure with deep themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and perseverance. For readers who want to fully disappear into another world during long winter nights, this trilogy delivers that escape.
The Alex Cross series by James Patterson
Beginning with Along Came a Spider, this crime series is familiar to many readers, but often only in part. There is a full collection beyond the first book, making it a great option for anyone who enjoys mysteries and page-turners. Also, this pick comes from a teammate who listens to podcasts more than she reads, so we rate the appeal of this series even higher.
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This is a perfect winter book precisely because it takes place somewhere warm. Set on the beaches of Malibu and centered on characters living the lives of the rich and famous, it offers an escape from the cold and snowy Midwest while also delivering an engaging and emotional story.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
A lifelong favorite and, in many minds, a winter book. This novel explores complex sibling relationships, the way women are perceived, and the importance of choosing your own path, even when that choice creates conflict. It is especially meaningful because so many readers, including our team member, see pieces of themselves in each of the March sisters.
The Red Bandanna by Tom Rinaldi
Sports fans may recognize Tom Rinaldi from his broadcasting and feature stories, but his storytelling in this book stands on its own. While it recounts the death of Welles Crowther on September 11, it is just as much about Crowther’s life and deep desire to serve. It is a story of first responders, tragedy, heroism, and triumph, and a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have. It is also a quick, moving read for a snow day.
As we share our team’s winter reading list, we also encourage you to explore What Dan Read through the Columbus Metropolitan Library. It is a beautiful record of one person’s lifelong relationship with books and an unusual instance of how libraries preserve stories in ways that ripple far beyond a single reader.
Whether you are snowed in or simply craving a quiet night, we hope one of these books keeps you company this winter.
What are you reading right now? We would love to hear what is on your list.
