The Rory Gilmore Reading Challenge: Not for the Faint of Heart!
Rory and Lorelai Gilmore are a dynamic mother daughter duo that live in the quintessential small town of Stars Hollow, and while many are wistfully coveting Lorelai’s confidence and quick wit, Rory’s love life, or the whimsical ideal of living in a small town, I am constantly in awe of the diverse and numerous titles seen, referenced, and read by Rory Gilmore. Over the course of seven seasons, starting in 2000 and ending in 2007, approximately 339 books are read, reviewed, or referenced by Rory and other leading characters. This list includes a wide sweeping variety of texts from classic pieces like Beowulf or the Illiad to more current literature like Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. This myriad of diverse genres, styles, and topics has led to what is now known as The Rory Gilmore Reading Challenge! This challenge is not for just anyone. Even I am intimidated, and I have read approximately 50 of the books on the list. Luckily there are several different ways to approach this challenge, if you are brave enough to take it on!
Your Challenge Style:
1. Read Like Rory: Those who are fans of the show are familiar with the Black White Read Bookstore, a quaint bookshop that also serves as the towns cozy small town movie theater. This happens to be the spot where you can find a list of all the books read/referenced by season and episode. So, if you truly aspire to be like Rory Gilmore, then perhaps reading those books in the same order that she did is best for you! To all those who are taking on the challenge with such systematic fidelity...I applaud you.
2. Read At Your Own Pace: If you are not quite as ambitious, but still look at this as a challenge worth taking, then I suggest heading over to Pinterest to find a printable list that will work for you! Many have taken up the challenge and created their own lists. Find one that resonates with you and your style and enjoy!
3. The Unconventional Challenge: During my research I came across something too good not to share! The New York Library has an amazing blog, and one of their writers created a recommended reading list with a twist! The author imagined what she would recommend to each character and provides a one book recommendation for each of the main characters. This list is just as unique, exciting, and engaging as anything referenced in the original seven seasons of the popular show, Gilmore Girls. I think Rory would approve!
Whether you are looking to take on the challenge yourself, or simply check the list and see where you measure up, this challenge is one that can be started at any time and enjoyed for years to come! After all...it did take Rory seven years to complete right?! Leave a comment below with how many books you've read on the list and what you are currently reading! As for me? I am in the midst of Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell and loving every word!
