18 Best Book Ideas for Your Guest Room
Your Guests might really appreciate a get away from there phones with books to read for there Vacation entertainment! Providing a thoughtfully curated selection of books in your guest room can offer a refreshing escape from the digital overload.
By offering a variety of genres and topics, you ensure there’s something for everyone, whether they’re avid readers or casual browsers.
What criterion to use for Choosing the books
- Diversity of Genres: Ensure there’s something for everyone by including a range of genres such as fiction, non-fiction, mystery, history, and science fiction.
- Local Interest: Add books or magazines that highlight local attractions, history, or culture to give your guests a taste of the area.
- Accessibility: Choose books that are easy to pick up and put down, such as short stories, essays, or poetry collections, making them perfect for a short stay.
- Timelessness: Include classic novels and universally beloved titles that appeal to a wide audience.
- Visual Appeal: Coffee table books with stunning visuals or photography can be a great addition, offering both beauty and interest.
Best Books for Guest Room
1. Short Novel Fiction Books
Let’s start with the most popular book genres – Fiction. While keeping it short so the the guest has enough time to complete the story.
‘Of Mice and Men‘ by John Steinbeck is a compelling choice for this Genre. It’s set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, Steinbeck’s novella explores the enduring human desire for companionship and the harsh realities of unfulfilled dreams.
It’s only 107 pages long, giving your guests a chance to complete the story during their stay.
2. History Book
History books are a great addition to your books for guests list!
Consider “A Short History of Nearly Everything” by Bill Bryson. This engaging and witty read takes you on a whirlwind tour of scientific discovery, seamlessly weaving in historical context.
From the Big Bang to the human body, Bryson’s captivating writing style makes even complex topics accessible and enjoyable for readers of all backgrounds.
3. Local Magzine
Local magazines add personality to your guest room. They give guests insider tips on hidden gems, trendy spots, and upcoming events – all the good stuff guidebooks miss. Your guests will thank you for making them feel like locals, not tourists.
4. Science Fiction
You have multiple options for this category. Which category of Sci-Fis are you into? Time Travel? Aliens? Pick the best sellers on what you like.
I can suggest – “The Time Machine” by H.G. Wells – This classic novella explores the concept of time travel as the protagonist journeys to the distant future and witnesses the evolution and decline of humanity. It’s a quick yet thought-provoking read.
6. Biography/Memoir
Choose your favorite historical figure’s Biography, or any other popular biography.
7. Travel/Adventure
For those who crave excitement and exploration, the Travel/Adventure genre offers a perfect escape, especially when paired with vivid imagery.
Picture-rich adventure books bring these tales to life with stunning visuals, capturing the essence of each journey and immersing readers in the experience.
We can suggest this book from National Geographic Maps.
8. Self-Help/Personal Development
People LOVE self help books! These are of the must haves. Developing better habits, finding inner peace, or achieving professional goals, is something everyone of us likes to do!
I would suggest Atomic Habits by James Clear. It’s been the best seller in this category for a while and for a very good reason!
9. Romance
For guests who appreciate tales of love and passion, the Romance genre offers heartwarming and emotionally resonant stories. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, where the spirited Elizabeth Bennet navigates love and society, or the modern-day emotional journey found in “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes, these books capture the essence of romantic connections.
With characters that readers can fall in love with and narratives that evoke a wide range of emotions, these romance novels provide an escape into worlds where love conquers all. Perfect for a cozy night in, these beautifully written stories are sure to enchant and delight any romantic at heart.
10. Current Affairs/Politics
A must have option for your book collection for the guests! “The Fifth Risk” by Michael Lewis is a compelling choice.
This book delves into the often-overlooked workings of various federal agencies, revealing how their efforts are crucial to the nation’s well-being.
Through engaging narratives and detailed reporting, Lewis highlights the dedicated public servants who work behind the scenes and the risks we face when these critical functions are neglected.
11. Children Books
For the youngest guests, a beloved classic like “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak is a delightful addition to any guest room
It is sure to be a hit with children, providing both entertainment and a gentle, heartwarming lesson.
12. Art/Photography
For guests who appreciate visual storytelling, “Humans of New York” by Brandon Stanton is an inspiring choice. This book is a stunning collection of photographs and accompanying stories from the streets of New York City.
Stanton captures the diversity and depth of human experience through his lens, presenting intimate portraits of individuals from all walks of life.
13. The Lottery and Other Stories
Shirley Jackson is renowned for her mastery of psychological suspense, and “The Lottery and Other Stories” showcases her talent in crafting unsettling and thought-provoking narratives.
From the infamous tale of a small town’s chilling ritual in “The Lottery” to the eerie exploration of domestic life in “The Daemon Lover,” Jackson’s stories delve into themes of conformity, identity, and the darker aspects of human nature.
14. “Interpreter of Maladies” by Jhumpa Lahiri
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, “Interpreter of Maladies” is a collection of poignant and beautifully written short stories that explore the lives of Indian immigrants and their descendants.
Jhumpa Lahiri’s prose is evocative and tender, weaving together themes of love, loss, cultural identity, and the immigrant experience with grace and empathy. Each story in this collection offers a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the longing for connection across borders.
15. “Nine Stories” by J.D. Salinger
J.D. Salinger, best known for “The Catcher in the Rye,” presents a collection of short stories in “Nine Stories” that showcase his sharp wit and keen observations of human behavior. F
rom the precocious children in “For Esmé—with Love and Squalor” to the disillusioned veterans in “A Perfect Day for Bananafish,” Salinger’s stories capture moments of clarity and epiphany in characters grappling with existential dilemmas and the complexities of modern life.
16. For Infants
“Goodnight Moon” is a beloved classic that has enchanted generations of young children with its soothing rhythm and gentle illustrations.
Perfect for infants and toddlers, this board book version allows little ones to interact with the story as they say goodnight to familiar objects and characters in the comforting room of a bunny getting ready for bed.
17. Classics
Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a powerful portrayal of racial injustice and moral growth in the Deep South during the 1930s.
The novel explores themes of empathy, courage, and the complexities of social justice, making it a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.
18. “1984” by George Orwell
George Orwell’s “1984” is a dystopian novel that paints a chilling picture of a totalitarian society where individuality and freedom are brutally suppressed.
Set in a future world dominated by omnipresent government surveillance and propaganda, the novel follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party who begins to question the oppressive regime.