By Maggie Butler
Posted On: Apr 24, 2020
With warmer weather coming, now is the perfect time to sit outside with a good book. Check out these books set in Ohio to keep you entertained!
“Eligible” by Curtis Sittenfield
This novel is a modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice set in Cincinnati. Follow this version of the Bennet family and Mr. Darcy as they interact with one and other (and even visit Skyline Chili a couple of times).
“Beloved” by Toni Morrison
This 1987 novel set after the Civil War and inspired by the life of Margaret Garner, an African American who escaped slavery, won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 1987. Travel back to 1873 Cincinnati and journey with the protagonist Sethe during the Reconstruction Era.
“Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng
Read the Goodreads Choice Awards winner for best Fiction that is set in Shaker Heights, Ohio. After finishing the book, be sure to check out the first season of the Hulu series of the same name.
“A Simple Plan” by Scott Smith
If you’re looking for a book that will make your heart race, check out “A Simple Plan” by Scott Smith, which The New York Times review said had “an emotional accuracy with an exceptionally skilled plot.” Three men find an airplane crashed in a rural Northern Ohio forest, and chaos ensues.
“The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey
This young adult science fiction novel follows 16-year-old Cassie Sullivan as she tries to survive in a world devastated by alien invasions. Set in Cincinnati, this book has been adapted into a film by Sony Pictures,
“Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper
Out of My Mind, by New York Times bestselling author Sharon M. Draper, follows a 10-year-old living in Ohio with cerebral palsy. Although this book is written for a younger audience, the inspiring story resonates with readers of all ages.
“Mosquitoland” by David Arnold
This young adult novel follows Mim Malone as she moves from the comfort of her home in northern Ohio to Mississippi. This modern American odyssey is as hilarious as it is heartbreaking.
“Indignation” by Philip Roth
Set in America after the second year of the Korean War, Indignation details Marcus Messner’s sophomore year at Winesburg College in Ohio. A film adaptation of the novel was made in 2016, with big names such as Logan Lermen, Sarah Gadon and Tracy Letts playing characters.
“Ohio” by Stephen Markley
Set over the course of single evening, Ohio follows four former high school classmates as they return to their hometown in northeastern Ohio. NPR called Ohio a “wild, angry, devastating debut” by author Stephen Markley.
“Captain Underpants” by Dav Pilkey
This illustrated series was a staple for many kids growing up. Two fourth-graders from Piqua, Ohio are stunned to find their imaginary superhero “Captain Underpants” has come to life! For even more adventure, you can check out the TV series based off the books (streaming on Netflix) or watch the 2017 movie, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (available to buy or rent on most streaming platforms).
For more literary fun and ways to #SupportLocalOhio, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.
