In a world of fame, fortune, and constant media attention, it might be surprising to learn that many celebrities find solace and inspiration in books. For some, reading provides an escape from the pressures of their high-profile lives; for others, it’s a source of motivation, personal growth, and reflection. While we may see celebrities on the red carpet or in blockbuster films, their private libraries are often filled with works that reveal their true passions, beliefs, and even their struggles.
In this article, we’ll dive into the secret reads of some of the world’s most beloved celebrities and explore the books they can’t put down. From self-help books to classic novels, these stars are proving that a good book can be just as valuable as a winning Oscar or chart-topping album.
1. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid – Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon is not only a famous actress but also a book club mogul. Her book club, “Reese’s Book Club,” has brought attention to countless authors and novels. One of Siarly Ortiz her most beloved books in recent years is The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. This gripping, multi-layered story about a reclusive Hollywood icon and her rise to fame captivated Witherspoon so much that she recommended it to her book club and even produced a television adaptation of it.
Witherspoon has praised the book for its exploration of fame, love, identity, and sacrifice. The novel’s rich storytelling and emotional depth reflect the complexities of Hollywood life, which Witherspoon, as both an actress and producer, can deeply relate to. The book’s focus on female empowerment and complex relationships has made it one of her favorite reads.
2. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama – Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey, the queen of media, has been an avid reader for decades, and one book that she can’t stop recommending is Becoming by Michelle Obama. The memoir, which chronicles the former First Lady’s life from her childhood in Chicago to her years in the White House, is a powerful testament to resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of one’s own identity.
Oprah has called Becoming “the most inspiring memoir I’ve ever read.” She has said that Michelle Obama’s story resonates with her because of its honesty, humility, and focus on the importance of personal growth. Oprah’s own journey has mirrored many of the themes in the book, making it a natural choice for her to champion. The memoir’s focus on empowerment, social issues, and family dynamics has made it a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration.
3. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger – Johnny Depp
Johnny Depp, known for his eccentric and deeply thoughtful persona, has long been an admirer of The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. The book’s protagonist, Holden Caulfield, has often been seen as a symbol of teenage rebellion and disillusionment with the adult world, a theme that resonates with Depp’s own sense of non-conformity.
Depp has spoken about how the novel helped him understand the complexities of adolescence and the struggle to find one’s place in a world that can seem indifferent or hostile. The book’s themes of isolation, authenticity, and self-doubt have had a profound impact on Depp, and he has mentioned it as one of the books that helped shape his personal and professional journey. As a public figure who has often gone against the grain, Depp relates to Holden’s rejection of societal norms and his quest for personal truth.
4. “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien – Elijah Wood
Elijah Wood, famous for playing Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings film series, is no stranger to the world of fantasy literature. Wood has shared in multiple interviews that The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien is one of the books he keeps coming back to. Beyond the film adaptation, which propelled him into stardom, Wood has always had a deep connection to Tolkien’s work, finding the themes of courage, friendship, and sacrifice particularly moving.
Wood has often spoken about how the book shaped his understanding of heroism. The complex world-building and the deep philosophical underpinnings of Tolkien’s writing have influenced not only his personal life but also his acting choices. The books’ exploration of good versus evil, the weight of responsibility, and the importance of community resonate deeply with Wood, who often shares his passion for fantasy literature and its ability to inspire hope and resilience.
5. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald – Leonardo DiCaprio
Leonardo DiCaprio’s portrayal of Jay Gatsby in Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby solidified the actor’s connection to the novel. DiCaprio has spoken about how deeply the book resonated with him long before he took on the role. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s tale of wealth, love, and the pursuit of the American Dream is a timeless reflection of human desire and the often destructive nature of ambition.
For DiCaprio, The Great Gatsby is a book that explores the themes of illusion, the desire for something unattainable, and the tragic consequences of obsession. DiCaprio’s own career, which has been marked by a desire for roles that explore human flaws and complexities, mirrors many of the novel’s themes. DiCaprio has said that the novel helped him understand the depth of his character in the film and the underlying disillusionment that fuels Gatsby’s actions.
6. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson – Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston, known for her iconic role as Rachel Green on Friends, is a big fan of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson. The book, which advocates for focusing on what truly matters and letting go of the societal pressures to constantly be positive or perfect, resonated with Aniston on a personal level.
Aniston has been open about the challenges of being in the public eye, and the book’s message about setting boundaries and embracing imperfection aligns with her own approach to fame and self-care. In interviews, she has mentioned how the book helped her to focus on what is important in her life and let go of unnecessary stress or external validation. The book’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach to personal growth has made it one of her go-to reads for staying grounded.
7. “Educated” by Tara Westover – Sarah Jessica Parker
Sarah Jessica Parker, beloved for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, has openly discussed her admiration for Educated by Tara Westover. The memoir, which details Westover’s journey from growing up in a strict, survivalist family in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from the University of Cambridge, has inspired Parker deeply.
Parker has called Educated one of the most impactful books she has read in recent years. The book’s exploration of the power of education, self-determination, and resilience in the face of adversity aligns with Parker’s own values. She has said that Westover’s story of overcoming personal and familial limitations helped her reflect on her own privilege and the importance of education as a tool for personal transformation.
8. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde – Madonna
Madonna, the Queen of Pop, is no stranger to pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. One book that has had a significant impact on her is The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. The novel, which explores the corrupting influence of vanity, hedonism, and the pursuit of eternal youth, resonates deeply with Madonna’s own public persona.
Madonna has been known for her fearless embrace of change, reinvention, and the pursuit of personal expression, much like Dorian Gray’s journey in Wilde’s novel. She has mentioned that the book made her reflect on the consequences of fame, beauty, and excess. The novel’s exploration of moral decay, self-obsession, and the pursuit of eternal youth has inspired Madonna’s creative vision and the themes she explores in her music and public image.
9. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton – Tom Cruise
Tom Cruise, one of the most successful actors of his generation, has spoken about his admiration for The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. The novel, which tells the story of two rival groups of teenagers, the Greasers and the Socs, explores themes of class, friendship, and the struggle for identity. Cruise, who starred in the film adaptation of the novel, has shared that the book helped him understand the complexities of youth and social division.
Cruise has often cited The Outsiders as a formative book in his early years, as it helped him relate to the struggles of growing up and finding one’s place in society. The themes of loyalty, resilience, and fighting against the odds have influenced his career, particularly in the roles he chooses. The novel’s timeless appeal continues to resonate with Cruise, who has said that it reminds him of the importance of staying true to oneself despite external pressures.
10. “The Prophet” by Kahlil Gibran – Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres, the beloved comedian and talk-show host, has spoken frequently about her admiration for The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran. The book, which is a collection of poetic essays that explore love, freedom, work, and spirituality, has had a lasting impact on DeGeneres’ philosophy of life.
DeGeneres has said that the book helped her develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living a life filled with love and kindness. The book’s spiritual themes, combined with its lyrical beauty, have inspired DeGeneres to promote positivity, kindness, and inclusivity in her work and her personal life. The Prophet continues to be one of her favorite reads for both comfort and inspiration.
Conclusion
Celebrities, despite their public personas, are often avid readers with deep, introspective interests. From Michelle Obama’s empowering memoir to Mark Manson’s straightforward self-help book, these stars’ secret reads reveal much about their values, struggles, and philosophies. Whether it’s the classic wisdom of Oscar Wilde or the personal growth of Tara Westover, books remain a constant source of inspiration and solace for these public figures. And in sharing their favorite reads, they encourage us to explore new perspectives and perhaps find our own transformative books along the way.