BookTok, how did we get here? In 2018, Musical.ly developed into Tiktok but it was largely unknown and held little influence. Then in 2020, the TikTok we know today was revolutionized by the attention it was given by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eventually, a small part of that platform became known as BookTok (a rather uninventive name). BookTok is known for recommending mainstream books such as “It Ends With Us” by Colleen Hoover and “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston. As this corner of the internet grew, smaller factions of book lovers began to form. This led to the creation of categories like “cool girl” literature and “weird girl” literature (which is just “cool girl” literature but with more outrageousness). “Cool girl” books can be categorized as niche, but not unheard of books (fiction or nonfiction) that take the reader on an artistic journey that probably ends in tragedy. Though this vague definition can describe a wide range of books that would never be considered cool. Books that fit these standards and have an interesting angle are what elevate certain books to fit the “cool girl” persona. Interesting angles include knowing how the book ends on the first page, having an artistically vibrant movie to go with it or an unheard of but universally felt take on being a girl. These angles are pillars of categorizing books as “cool girl” literature. This list ranks my top five “cool girl” books with synopses of each, and recommendations on where to start reading so you can become your coolest self.
Top 5 “cool girl” books (in order), synopsis and star rating:
1. “The Virgin Suicides” by Jeffrey Eugenides
This grossly captivating novel ranks number one in my list of “cool girl” reads. This book follows the lives and deaths of five teenage sisters told from the perspective of the boys across the street. You never know what part of the book is true because of the unreliable and obsessive narrators. Despite the telling title, this book was continuously shocking and entertaining to read. This compelling novel was adapted into Sofia Coppola’s first film in 1999.
Overall rating: 4/5
“Cool girl” rating: 5/5
2. “Just Kids” by Patti Smith
A very close second goes to “Just Kids” by Patti Smith. This memoir starts slow but is well worth the journey. Renowned rock star Patti Smith takes the reader through her experience of self discovery, love and art. She vividly narrates what being a literal starving artist in the 60s and 70s was like. Smith redefines what love is and leaves the reader staring at the wall after reading. This book perfectly captures the aesthetic, philosophical and emotional needs of “cool girls” everywhere.
Overall rating: 4.5/5
“Cool girl” rating: 4/5
3. “My Year of Rest and Relaxation” by Ottessa Moshfegh
This book takes place in NYC during the early 2000s and covers the story of a “nepo-baby’s” descent into medicated madness. What is more “cool girl” than that? “My Year of Rest and Relaxation” by Ottessa Moshfegh is the “cool girl” book. One downside to this novel is that it is very slow, continuously interesting but the story is presented in a monotonous way. This choice was intentional and further transports the reader into the world of the unstable and mesmerizing main character.
Overall rating: 3/5
“Cool girl” rating: 5/5
4. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
Don’t be thrown off by the categorization of this book as a classic. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath deserves every bit of praise it gets. This book follows the story of a young woman discovering herself and being torn down by the complications of life. It is easily digestible for a classic and beautifully represents the reality of being a “thought daughter.” Being written in 1963 by a white woman, some remarks by the main character are blatantly unacceptable and racist. I believe that this factor of the book should not be ignored and that the readers should use their own internal dialogue to judge if the racism outshines the artistry.
Overall rating: 3.5/5
“Cool girl” rating: 4/5
5. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid is not niche enough for an experienced “cool girl,” but it is a great starting point for any wannabe “cool girls.” This book follows the story of a young actress’ journey in love and fame with many twists along the way. It’s quick paced and once I started reading it, I couldn’t stop. This well-known novel is a great read for just about anyone and that generality makes this book less cool. Contrary to this it’s approachableness allows average readers to pick up the book which can easily lead to more cool reads.
Overall rating: 4/5
“Cool girl” rating: 2/5
“Cool girl” literature is one very small (but important) part of being a “cool girl.” Clothing, punctuation, makeup, ideology, accessories, attitude and many other characteristics make up a “cool girl.” These factors mean nothing unless there is a strong base to build upon, this base is confidence. Think of all the “cool-girl-it-girls,” Bella Hadid, Gabbriette and Taylor Russell. They are all unapologetically and unequivocally themselves. It doesn’t have to be in an outspoken way but making decisions that are genuine who you are will elevate your confidence and coolness. A small step towards reaching your full “cool girl” potential is picking up one of these books that most compels you, and using it to build up your knowledge of the world and your opinions on various subjects. This can further build your confidence and thus your “cool girl” mentality.
