As the sun begins to shine, now is the perfect time to crack open a good book in the back garden. I’ve gathered a collection of springtime-inspired reads to help you feel relaxed and renewed. 

‘Still Life’ by Sarah Winman 

This colourful novel by Winman, set in 1944 Italy, follows the intertwined narratives of Ulysses, a young British soldier, and Evelyn, a 64-year-old art historian. After the characters unexpectedly collide in a Tuscan villa’s wine cellar, their narratives meet- converging their stories of wartime, lost youth, and love. While I initially found this book hard to get into, often getting confused by the changing narratives between Ulysses and Evelyn, once the two meet, the story instantly picks up. With amazing characterisation, this book is sure to uplift you while also instilling a bit of wisdom. 

‘Otherlands’ by Thomas Halliday 

While not as ‘literary’ as my other recommendations, Halliday’s ‘Otherlands,’ is an ode to the natural world. This novel is immersing us in the world’s landscapes from the Antarctic to Australia in combination with a poetic narrative about the creatures who live within them. A truly unique read, I definitely recommend any nature lovers to pick up a copy this spring. 

‘The Fair Botanists’ by Sara Sheridan  

Hailing from Edinburgh myself, I felt a great connection with Sheridan’s 2022 novel, ‘The Fair Botanists.’ Set in the botanical gardens of 19th-century Edinburgh, the plot follows Elizabeth. New to town, she becomes fascinated by the city’s botanicas and the impending bloom of the agave americana plant which only flowers every few decades. With such an emphasis on botany and themes of rebirth, this novel is an all-over springtime read. 

Hopefully, one of these novels has taken your fancy. Some of these novels were at the top of my springtime reading list last year, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. From all of us at The Maker, happy reading! 

Words by Anna Craig