New England, with its rich history, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant literary tradition, has long been a wellspring of inspiration for writers. From classic tales to contemporary narratives, the region’s authors have produced some of the most enduring works in American literature. As we move into 2025, it’s the perfect time to explore or revisit these literary gems. Here are 11 books by New England authors that should be on your reading list.
Classic New England Voices
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
No exploration of New England literature is complete without mentioning Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. Set in 19th-century Massachusetts, this beloved classic follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate adolescence and adulthood. The novel explores themes of family, sisterhood, love, and personal identity, and its portrayal of female resilience in the face of societal constraints makes it a timeless read. It is considered a cornerstone of American literature, offering a heartwarming and insightful glimpse into life in New England.
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Nathaniel Hawthorne, a native of Salem, Massachusetts, masterfully crafted The Scarlet Letter. This 1850 novel delves into themes of sin, guilt, and redemption set against the backdrop of Puritan New England. The story revolves around Hester Prynne, who is forced to wear a scarlet “A” for adultery. Hawthorne’s exploration of the dark side of human nature and the consequences of societal judgment makes this a powerful and enduring work.
Walden by Henry David Thoreau
A quintessential piece of New England literature, Henry David Thoreau’s Walden is a reflection on simple living and the importance of nature. Based on Thoreau’s two-year experience living in a cabin at Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts, it is part memoir, part philosophical treatise. His observations on nature and society encourage readers to seek a more meaningful existence, and his work continues to resonate with contemporary readers. Thoreau’s other notable works include The Maine Woods and Cape Cod, which also delve into the natural landscapes of New England.
Horror and Suspense from Maine
Carrie by Stephen King
No list of New England authors would be complete without Stephen King, the master of horror. Carrie, his first published novel, is a chilling tale set in a fictional small town in Maine. It tells the story of Carrie White, a troubled teenager with telekinetic powers who takes revenge on her tormentors. King’s ability to blend horror with social commentary, along with his signature New England settings, has made him one of the most influential writers of our time. Many of his stories are set in Maine, and have become synonymous with the state itself.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
While not strictly a New England native, Shirley Jackson spent much of her adult life in Vermont, and her eerie novel The Haunting of Hill House captures a sense of foreboding and psychological unease that is often associated with New England Gothic. This 1959 novel is about a group of people staying in a house that is considered to be haunted. Jackson’s exploration of the psychological dimensions of terror makes this a classic of the genre.
Contemporary Voices of New England
Empire Falls by Richard Russo
Richard Russo, who divides his time between Portland, Maine and Boston, is known for his insightful portrayals of small-town life in the Northeast. Empire Falls, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, tells the story of the residents of a once-prosperous town in Maine grappling with economic hardship and personal struggles. The novel’s strength lies in its complex characters and its exploration of the human condition in the face of adversity.
The Cider House Rules by John Irving
John Irving‘s The Cider House Rules is a poignant novel set in rural Maine. The story revolves around Homer Wells, an orphan raised in a remote orphanage who comes of age amid a complex web of relationships and moral questions. Irving’s distinct style, characterized by quirky characters and fateful coincidences, makes this a memorable and thought-provoking read, and explores the themes of family, choice, and personal responsibility. Many of his other works such as A Prayer for Owen Meany also have New England settings.
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Set in a small coastal town in Maine, Elizabeth Strout’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Olive Kitteridge is a collection of interconnected short stories centered on a retired schoolteacher named Olive Kitteridge. Strout’s nuanced portrayal of her characters, with their flaws and vulnerabilities, makes for a compelling and deeply human read. Her exploration of the complexities of small-town life is both insightful and moving. Her recent novel, Tell Me Everything is also set in New England.
New Voices
Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
Set to be released in January 2025, Charmaine Wilkerson’s Good Dirt is an anticipated release that follows an affluent Black family in New England. It is a multigenerational epic that explores the past through a childhood tragedy, and a stoneware jar that connects different generations. After the worldwide success of her debut novel, Black Cake, this is one of the must-reads of 2025 and offers a fresh and contemporary look at life in New England.
James: A Novel by Percival Everett
Percival Everett’s James is a novel that reimagines Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim, the enslaved man who travels with Huck. This novel is set in the South but has New England connections since it’s written by a New England author and is a twist on a classic American story. It’s been featured on New England bestseller lists, demonstrating the region’s support for diverse voices in literature.
Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
Featured on several New England bestseller lists, Grady Hendrix’s Witchcraft for Wayward Girls is a suspenseful novel set in the 1980s. A young woman who is trying to fit in with her boyfriend’s friends and family is drawn to an ancient evil. It is a blend of suspense, horror, and folklore that will keep readers captivated.
Conclusion
From classic authors like Alcott, Hawthorne, and Thoreau to contemporary masters like King, Russo, and Strout, New England’s literary landscape is rich and diverse. These 11 books offer a taste of the region’s enduring appeal, exploring its history, culture, and unique atmosphere. As we head into 2025, make sure to add these New England literary treasures to your reading list.
