Aries are relentlessly strong, notoriously self-reliant, and brimming with a fiery spirit. They’re fiercely loyal and are an inspiration to the people around them. They’re also avid readers, and we have lots of book recs for those who identify as Aries. Each book in this roundup includes a theme that embodies the Aries spirit — either involving characters who have (or have to learn) independence, a storyline that fosters a sense of community, or a protagonist who displays their sheer determination to accomplish a goal.


Where’d You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple – When Bernadette goes missing right before her family’s planned trip to Antarctica, her daughter Bee sets out to find her. In Maria Semple’s Where’d You Go, Bernadette? we follow as Bee grows into a braver, more confident young woman on her journey to locate her infamously strong-minded mother. For any Aries who’s looking for a book with a smart, witty lead, this book will give you that, plus loads of heartwarming laughs.

Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan – Manhattan Beach tells the story of Anna, a self-reliant woman who becomes the first female civil diver in World War II. When Anna needs to rely on herself the most, she finds the strength and confidence to figure out why her father vanished. Just like an Aries, Anna is immensely strong and independent.

Girls Burn Brighter by Shobha Rao – When her mother passes, Poornima takes on the role of caring for her siblings and prepares for her own arranged marriage. Then, Poornima meets Savitha — an untraditional, unapologetic, and ferociously independent woman — who inspires Poornima to change her own life. In true Aries spirit, Girls Burn Brighter by Shobha Rao gives us a female lead who gains independence in a way that is sure to make you cheer.

The Assistants by Shobha Rao – When her mother passes, Poornima takes on the role of caring for her siblings and prepares for her own arranged marriage. Then, Poornima meets Savitha — an untraditional, unapologetic, and ferociously independent woman — who inspires Poornima to change her own life. In true Aries spirit, Girls Burn Brighter by Shobha Rao gives us a female lead who gains independence in a way that is sure to make you cheer.

The Shark Club by Ann Kidd Taylor – The Shark Club is about Maeve, a marine biologist who, despite being bit by a shark as a kid, continues to navigate life without fear and with an abundance of confidence. This New York Times bestseller takes us through Maeve’s career, her romantic life, and her family matters — and in true Aries spirit, gives us a female protagonist with immense courage.

Before Everything by Victoria Redel – Before Everything tells a story of loyalty — a strong Aries characteristic — as we follow the journey of a tight-knit group of friends. This touching novel, penned by Victoria Redel, takes us through the challenges the group faces when one of its members enters hospice, and how the others rally around to support her.


Interested in learning more? Check out these Aries authors on our Homewood Public Library website!