Astrology talk has been a hot topic for quite some time now. However, more recently, it's gained more popularity due to the rise in zodiac-inspired content flooding social media. It's so socially relevant nowadays that I've found myself in situations where it feels like everyone around me is turning to their horoscopes before coming to decisions. When meeting new people, it's become a reflex, almost a ritual, to ask, "What's your big three?" (your sun, moon, and rising signs) as a way to get to know and understand people better.
In 2024, you can’t escape zodiac talk. Whether you’re out with friends or scrolling through TikTok, you’ll inevitably come across things like predictions for the month ahead or insights into which career paths suit you best based on your sign. Over these few years, zodiac signs have become more than just horoscopes; they’re a fun way to connect with yourself and others! So, if you are also interested in zodiac signs, here’s a list of books I recommend for each sign!
Aries (March 21 - April 19) Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind
Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, are known for their bold and ambitious nature. With such qualities, Aries individuals are all about facing challenges head-on with passion and energy. In Patrick Süskind's Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, the protagonist, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, embodies these very qualities. Jean-Baptiste isn't your average protagonist; he's driven by an intense impulse and passion to create the perfect scent. His obsession takes him to extreme lengths, even resorting to murder. It's his determination and single-minded focus that embodies the fiery spirit of an Aries.
T
aurus (April 20 - May 20) Supper Club by Lara Williams
Comfort and loyalty are Taurus's main priorities in life. The bull of the zodiac, known for their stubbornness and love of luxury, finds comfort in life's finest pleasures. Supper Club by Lara Williams follows the story of a group of women who have grown tired of societal expectations and decide to form a secret club where they liberate themselves through food. This search for pleasure through food by the characters in Supper Club reflects Taurus's liking for pleasurable and luxurious experiences. Their defiance of societal norms reflects Taurus's stubbornness and strong determination to live life according to their own rules.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20) Bunny by Mona Awad
The twins of the zodiac, Gemini, are known to be adventurous and have a curious personality. They thrive in social interactions and love exploring concepts new to them with their quick-witted intellect. Bunny by Mona Awad follows Samantha and her social life as an outsider in a prestigious club of elite and strange classmates who call each other by the name "Bunny." As Samantha gets roped deeper into the club's crazy world of dark secrets, she discovers things about herself and the world she never knew existed. Samantha's adaptability and curiosity allow her to navigate the Bunny clique's odd traditions, embodying the versatile energy of a Gemini.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22) On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
Cancer, the intuitive and sentimental crab of the zodiac, are known for their empathy and protective nature. They are highly in tune with their emotions, sensitive, and always prepared to offer support, creating a comforting space for all around them. Ocean Vuong’s On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous is written as a letter to a mother from a son. Through the novel's exploration of love, identity, and human experiences, Vuong captures Cancer's sensitivity and emotional depth. It's the novel's themes of love, memory, and healing that align with Cancer energy.
Leo (July 23 - August 22) Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Leo, the charming and confident lion of the zodiac, shines brightly with their natural warmth and creativity. They thrive in the spotlight, desiring attention while possessing devotion and generosity in their relationships. Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band. Daisy Jones, the protagonist, along with the additional characters, represents Leo's charisma and passion for performing. Their travels through fame and emotional struggles reflect Leo's confidence and creative soul, constantly aiming to leave a lasting impact.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22) The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura
The zodiac's most analytical and detail-oriented sign, Virgo, are known for their practical approach to living life. They are attentive and hardworking, constantly seeking for perfection with their problem-solving skills. The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura follows an unnamed narrator who becomes obsessed with the life of a mysterious woman, studying her every move with meticulous attention. It's the narrator's perceptive observations and analytical mind that mirror Virgo's energy.
Libra (September 23 - October 22) Emma by Jane Austen
Libra, the charming peacemaker of the zodiac, are known for their fairness and sociability. They desire balance in all parts of life, enjoying beauty and especially seeking to maintain harmony in all relationships. Emma by Jane Austen, a classic novel centered around the matchmaking antics of its protagonist, Emma Woodhouse, exudes immense Libra energy. Emma navigates life encountering indecision, misinterpretations, and romantic relationships in the English countryside, all while trying to set up love matches for others. Emma's passion for partnership reflects Libra's natural inclination toward forming deep, meaningful connections. Her sociability and charisma attract others to her, similar to Libra's ability to effortlessly form connections with others.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21) Astragal by Albertine Sarrazin
Scorpio, the passionate and intense scorpion of the zodiac, are known for their emotional depth and quick-wittedness. They have a magnetic allure, surrounded by mystery and intrigue. Albertine Sarrazin's novel Astragal follows the story of a young woman named Anne who flees from incarceration and wounds her ankle while escaping. As she navigates life on the run, she experiences romance, danger, and the brutal realities of life. Anne reflects Scorpio's resilience and passionate personality, confronting difficulties with determination. Her secretive and mystifying essence pulls readers into her world, much like Scorpio's ability to charm others with their mysterious aura.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
Sagittarius, the adventurous archer of the zodiac, thrives on exploration and independence. They're all about embracing new experiences with an open outlook on life. Rachel Cohn's novel Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist captures the liveliness and excitement of a single night in New York City. The story follows two teenagers who go on a spontaneous adventure filled with romance, music, and self-reflection. Its lively energy and optimistic tone resonate with Sagittarius's enthusiastic approach to life. The novel's genuine and open-hearted conversations also reflect the straightforward and sincere nature of a true Sagittarius.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis
Capricorn, the structured and goal-oriented mountain goat of the zodiac, are known for their responsibility and practicality. They're ambitious, hardworking, and reliable, taking a serious approach to life with a focus on achieving success. Walter Tevis's novel, The Queen's Gambit, is set in the 1960s and follows Beth Harmon, a determined young chess prodigy. Raised in an orphanage, Beth discovers her talent for chess and rises through the competitive chess world, facing challenges along the way. Beth Harmon embodies Capricorn's systematic approach to achieving goals in chess. It's her ambitious drive and dedication to mastering the game that mirrors Capricorn's strong work ethic and determination to succeed in their goals.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) Orlando by Virginia Woolf
Aquarius, the eccentric water-bearer of the zodiac, are known for their creative ideas and unique approach to life. They're intellectuals with a strong sense of humanitarianism, often seen as independent thinkers who follow their own path. Virginia Woolf's novel Orlando follows a young nobleman named Orlando in Elizabethan England who experiences a life changing event and lives through centuries as both a man and a woman. Orlando's journey reflects Aquarius's spirit of freedom and originality. Woolf's imaginative novel challenges social norms and explores individuality's fluidity, reflecting Aquarius's pursuit to understand humanity and break free from limits.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20) Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami
The compassionate and creative fish of the zodiac, Pisces, are known for their gentle nature. Dreamy and empathetic, Pisces have a rich imagination that often causes them to get lost in their own world. Haruki Murakami's novel Kafka on the Shore shares the story of two characters: Kafka, a teenage runaway, and Nakata, an elderly man who has magical abilities. Although the characters are vastly different, their paths are subtly connected. It's the novel's ethereal and imaginative plot that reflects the true whimsical and dreamy nature of the Pisces.