Julia Roberts’ 5 Favorite Books Will Transport You to New Worlds—Add Them to Your TBR!
From tragic love stories to biblical reimaginings, these novels left their mark on the star
Key Takeaways
- Actress Julia Roberts revealed the five books that have influenced her.
- Her picks include short stories by Thomas Hardy and scandalous romantic tales.
- Here, take a look at what the Oscar winner has enjoyed reading over the years.
Julia Roberts is a skilled storyteller on the screen, known for her work in everything from heartwarming rom-coms like Pretty Woman (1990) to her more dramatic roles like Erin Brockovich (2000). With a love for storytelling, it should come as no surprise that the 58-year-old actress enjoys diving into a good book, and in 2001, she shared with O, The Oprah Magazine, a few of her favorites. Here, take a look at the five books that left their mark on Julia Roberts, as well as what other readers have said about them.
‘The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter’ by Carson McCullers
Carson McCullers’ first novel, The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, tells the story of a deaf-mute living in 1930s Georgia who serves as a confidant to four individuals within his community. Though he cannot verbally respond to their tales and grievances, each of these people see him as a trusted figure in this exploratory tale of human connection. Roberts celebrated McCullers’ ability to paint such a clear picture of the South having grown up there herself.
What readers are saying: “What a beautiful book. There are no grand events happening here; it’s simply life and loneliness intertwining in a small town. A wonderful read, one that makes you feel a strange feeling of solitude and isolation and, sometimes, a quiet sadness. Highly recommended.”
‘The Wild Palms’ by William Faulkner
The Wild Palms, which was originally titled If I Forget Thee, Jerusalem, intertwines two distinct stories. One of these stories follows a man and a married woman who engage in an illicit affair, running off together as they explore their desire. The other tale is of a convict, who is freed to rescue people in the wake of a massive flood. Embarking on this venture, he risks his life and confronts danger to save a pregnant woman. In one tale, the couple is pursuing freedom, while in the other tale, the convict wishes for nothing more than to be back within the confines of his imprisonment.
According to Julia Roberts, “It’s such a beautiful, tragic love story—a book that will just destroy you. And Faulkner’s language is so utterly descriptive. He can write an entire page that consists of only adjectives and two commas.”
What readers are saying: “Both adventures are beautifully told in their own right, but what makes them truly extraordinary is the way the passions of one tale reflect the sorrows of the other. Past and present combine, while the natural world is described in impressionistic detail. The effect is completely immersive as very few novels are.”
‘Written on the Body’ by Jeanette Winterson
Written on the Body by Jeanette Winterson explores the narrator’s affair with a married woman who has her own set of complexities. One of the most notable aspects of this book is that the narrator is given no name, nor is their gender established, and it’s a part of the story Julia Roberts found fascinating.
What readers are saying: “My first novel by Jeanette Winterson and definitely not my last. A mediation on love and loss that had me laughing out loud in one moment and marveling at the beauty of her words at another. A new favorite.”
‘The Red Tent’ by Anita Diamant
In the Bible, Dinah, the daughter of Jacob, is only briefly mentioned in a tragic context. The Red Tent reimagines her story through her words, while also exploring stories of Leah, Rachel, Zilpah and Bilhah. “It was riveting—the wives of Jacob, telling biblical stories from their perspective. This isn’t my standard pick, and I don’t know if everybody would embrace it, but it’s just wonderful,” shared Julia Roberts.
What readers are saying: “I loved Dinah’s strong voice. The stories, culture, religious ceremony and customs were all such welcome treats. Her brazenness, honesty, intelligence and kindness were all appreciated. Diamant is able to give such life and humanity to characters we may only know through a few lines, a mention or parable…I loved this story and could not stop reading it.”
‘An Imaginative Woman’ by Thomas Hardy
A short story by Thomas Hardy, An Imaginative Woman tells the tale of a married woman who grows obsessed with the poet whose room she’s temporarily staying in—despite having never met him.
What readers are saying: “Thomas Hardy’s realism could break you if you’re not careful. He writes inner conflict and injustice for female characters so well.”
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