Nara Smith Unveils Favorite Books, From Classics to Contemporary Fiction

Influencer and cookbook author Nara Smith has shared her list of favorite books, noting that she gravitates towards stories that evoke nostalgia, inspiration, or a sense of transportive escape. Smith, whose new cookbook "Homemade" is currently available, expressed a preference for narratives that immerse the reader in their world through complex relationships or distinct settings.

"I tend to gravitate toward books with characters you keep thinking about after you’ve finished them," Smith told Page Six. Her selection spans various genres, from beloved classics to contemporary fiction and fantasy.

Among her top picks is Sally Rooney's "Normal People." Smith praised the novel for its "quiet and painfully human" storytelling, highlighting Rooney's ability to capture unspoken feelings related to love and timing.

For readers seeking an immersive fantasy experience, Smith recommends Sarah J. Maas's "Throne of Glass" series. She cited the series' compelling characters, intricate mythology, and robust world-building as reasons for its appeal, noting it provides a complete escape.

Taylor Jenkins Reid's "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" also made Smith's list. She described the novel as outwardly glamorous but inwardly complex, exploring themes of love, ambition, and sacrifice, and the disparity between one's public persona and private self.

Madeline Miller's "The Song of Achilles" resonated with Smith due to its exploration of Greek mythology and its portrayal of a heartbreaking love story. Smith noted that even knowing the tragic outcome, the narrative remains deeply affecting.

Jane Austen's classic "Pride and Prejudice" earned a spot for its witty observations on love and societal assumptions. Smith particularly admired the character of Elizabeth Bennet, finding her sharp and independent spirit remarkably modern.

Finally, Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" was highlighted for its enduring exploration of empathy, morality, and understanding different perspectives. Smith recalled the book's lasting impact, emphasizing its lessons on seeing the world through others' eyes.

Smith's cookbook, "Homemade," reflects a similar ethos of creating familiar things in new ways, a sentiment that appears to carry over into her literary tastes, favoring stories that are both classic in their appeal and fresh in their execution.