From fantasy novels that transport us elsewhere to classics loved by generations, we often underestimate the impact of the stories we read — and how they stay with us long after we’ve turned the final page. National Author’s Day celebrates the writers who bring those stories to life and gives us an excuse to add another title to our ever-growing reading lists. We’ve rounded up Amazon best sellers, e-readers and clever accessories, like a bendable reading light and copper page nibs, to help you celebrate, find gifts for other readers and make the most of your reading time.
What is National Author Day?
National Author’s Day is celebrated every year on Nov. 1. It’s a chance to recognize and honor the writers who create our favorite books and characters. The day spotlights their literary contributions and dates back to 1928, when it was started by Nellie Verne Burt McPherson, an Illinois teacher and avid reader. The U.S. Department of Commerce recognized the observance in 1949.
Today, book lovers can celebrate in countless ways: purchase a book by a favorite author, pick up a new best seller, revisit a beloved novel, write to an author to show appreciation, visit an independent bookstore or pen a story of their own. Nov. 1 also marks the start of National Novel Writing Month, a challenge to write a 50,000-word novel by Nov. 30.
Books
Find out which book tops Amazon’s best-seller list and discover your next page-turner among these reader favorites.
“A Court of Splintered Harmony” by Sarah J. Maas: $22
It’s no wonder that the latest “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) installment, released Oct. 27 after a five-year wait, shot to No. 1 on Amazon’s bestseller list. The sixth book in Sarah J. Maas’ romantasy series, it serves as the lead-up to the seventh installment, coming Jan. 12, 2027. Pick up a copy and return to the Night Court alongside millions of other readers.
“Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi: $13
Allen Levi’s “Theo of Golden” is currently No. 5 on Amazon’s best-seller list. In the novel, a mysterious stranger arrives in a small Southern town and begins purchasing portraits displayed in a local coffee shop. He gives each portrait to the person depicted, asking to hear their story in return. It’s a heartwarming tale about human connection.
“The Pumpkin Spice Café” by Laurie Gilmore: $10
If you’re looking for a cozy romance, follow Jeanie, who trades her dreary desk job for a fresh start, taking over her aunt’s café in the small town of Dream Harbor. One complication: Logan, the grumpy local farmer, isn’t as immune to Jeanie’s sunshine personality as he’d like to admit. The first book in the viral Dream Harbor series, this cozy romance is packed with autumn vibes, small-town gossip and just the right amount of spice.
Reading essentials
These finds make it easier to get lost in a good book.
Kobo Libra Colour: $260
The Kobo Libra Colour is an e-reader with a seven-inch glare-free color display, physical page-turn buttons for those who miss the motion of flipping through a book, adjustable lighting and 32 GB of storage, which holds 24,000 ebooks. It lets you borrow ebooks from participating public libraries, making it convenient and budget-friendly for reading. It also supports colorful highlighting and handwritten notes on the screen with the Kobo Stylus 2.
Writer Julia Fields has owned the Kobo for years now: “I love the sleek design, the side buttons to turn the page and the vibrant colors on the screen. The pen is a game-changer for someone who loves to annotate their reads like me.”
Bendable rechargeable book light: $19 (30% off)
Original price: $27
The fun thing about this rechargeable book light is that it’s wearable. Its hands-free design rests around your neck, while flexible arms let you direct the light exactly where you need it. It’s useful for nighttime reading, traveling and sharing a bedroom without turning on the overhead lights. The light is also USB-C rechargeable and lasts up to 80 hours on a single charge.
Yoto Player, 4th Gen: $150
Make storytime more fun with the fourth-generation Yoto Player, a screen-free audio player designed for children ages 3 and older. Kids can listen to audiobooks, music and podcasts by inserting Yoto Cards or using the new Green Button to access their favorite playlists. The player features stereo sound and a built-in night light that doubles as an alarm clock, making it a handy companion for bedtime stories and quiet afternoons.
Audible membership: $9 per month
An Audible membership is useful for commuters and those who prefer listening to books while doing chores, and it also makes a great gift this holiday season. Plus, “Bram Stoker’s Dracula”, narrated by a new cast that includes Jonathan Bailey as Dracula and Ella Purnell as Mina, was just released.
Reading pillow and backrest: $51
Turn your bed into a cozy reading nook with this plush pillow. It’s a great option for readers without space for a dedicated chair or those who simply enjoy reading in bed. Its angled backrest provides support while you sit up, and the removable headrest and armrests let you customize your setup. Side pockets keep your phone, glasses and other essentials within reach, while the cover is machine washable.
Bolton Wide swivel armchair: $400
Create a cozy reading nook with this bouclé swivel chair. Its rounded silhouette, soft upholstery and roomy seat make it a stylish addition to your home. The chair has a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from more than 1,800 reviewers, who praise its comfort, color options, appearance and quality.
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Copper page nibs (set of 50): $20
Never lose your place in a good book with these copper page nibs from Levenger. The set includes 50 slim, reusable markers that clip onto pages, allowing you to mark favorite passages without dog-earing them and easily revisit memorable sections. They also make a thoughtful gift for readers.
