15 Uplifting Books to Brighten Your Mood

      August 7, 2025

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      While I appreciate nearly every literary genre, I often find myself caught in repetitive reading habits. I either dive into spine-chilling thrillers that leave me suspicious of everyone around me or indulge in melancholic "sad girl" novels that have me longing for rainy days filled with Lana Del Rey’s music as I gaze out the window. Don’t misunderstand; I enjoy those books. Yet, every few weeks, I snap out of it and desire a read with one main aim: to bring a smile to my face (even if it’s a small one, because who really sits grinning at their Kindle?). I’m referring to those feel-good books that warm your heart and restore your faith in humanity.

      You might immediately consider light-hearted romances, and while they certainly fit into the feel-good category, there are numerous other reads that may initially seem heavy but feature profoundly uplifting stories. From literary fiction to mysteries to romantic comedies, there’s a feel-good book waiting for you. Whether you need a respite from real-life pressures or simply wish to enjoy something happy for a change, here are 15 feel-good books that deserve a place on your To Be Read list.

      Katherine Center

      Emma Wheeler has a burning desire to be a screenwriter. When she is given the opportunity to rewrite a script for renowned screenwriter Charlie Yates, it’s a chance she can’t resist. But what do they say? Don’t meet your heroes? Charlie Yates is not interested in co-writing with anyone—especially not “a failed, unknown screenwriter.” But Emma is determined to change his mind, even if it means she has to kiss him senseless to prove that love stories matter.

      Fredrik Backman

      Fredrik Backman masterfully transforms unexpected stories into touching narratives, and Anxious People is no exception. An open house for an apartment usually isn't a life-or-death scenario, but when a failed bank robber crashes in and takes a group of strangers hostage, things escalate quickly. None of them are who they seem, and all—including the robber—are in desperate need of rescue. As the authorities and media swirl around, these reluctant companions unveil surprising truths about themselves, setting off an unforeseen chain of events.

      Matt Haig

      After receiving a dilapidated house on a Mediterranean island from a long-lost friend, retired math teacher Grace Winters gives in to her curiosity. She arrives in Ibiza with a one-way ticket, no guidebook, and no plan. Amid the island's rugged hills and golden beaches, Grace searches for answers regarding her friend's life and its end. What she discovers is stranger than she ever imagined, but to confront this astonishing truth, Grace must first come to terms with her own past.

      Elissa Sussman

      Chani Horowitz feels trapped in her life until she is tasked to write a profile on movie star Gabe Parker, her ultimate celebrity crush and the latest James Bond. The interview turns into a whirlwind weekend that captivates the tabloids. Fast forward ten years, after a tough divorce and extensive therapy, Gabe’s PR team wants them to reunite for a second interview—and Chani is on board.

      Shelby Van Pelt

      After the death of her husband, Tova Sullivan begins working the night shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Keeping herself busy has always helped her cope with the disappearance of her son, Erik, over thirty years ago. Tova forms a bond with Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus at the aquarium, who has insight into the events of the night her son went missing. As he races against time to reveal the truth, this dual POV tale will keep you smiling throughout—and may make you think twice about ordering octopus again.

      Chelsea Handler

      With a comedic talent like Chelsea Handler's, you can bet you’ll be laughing out loud while reading. Outrageously candid yet surprisingly vulnerable, Handler shares her unforgettable journey to becoming the woman she always aspired to be. This book captures the exciting, humorous, and joyful life she has created—one that leaves the rest of us thinking, “I want what she’s having.”

      James McBride

      While digging foundations for a new project, workers uncover a skeleton at the bottom of a well—one of the many mysteries held by the residents of Chicken Hill, particularly couple Moshe and Chona Ludlow, who ran the Heaven & Earth Grocery Store. When the state comes searching for a deaf boy to institutionalize, the townspeople unite to protect him. What follows reveals the truth behind the skeleton, the boy, and the community as a whole.

      Emma Straub

      As her 40th birthday approaches, Alice’s life isn’t dire. She’s satisfied with her apartment, romantic life