The Bookish Ashley

Joey Potter, the grounded, independent, and introspective character from Dawson’s Creek, is a lover of literature, with a deep curiosity about the world and an emotional depth that’s central to her character. Joey’s reading list would reflect her longing for self-discovery, her struggles with love, and her desire to rise above her difficult circumstances. From classic romances to stories of personal growth and identity, here’s what Joey Potter would likely have on her bookshelf.

1. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey, who values independence and struggles with matters of the heart, would be captivated by Elizabeth Bennet’s wit, intelligence, and refusal to settle for anything less than true love. The story’s exploration of social class and expectations would resonate with Joey’s own journey of self-worth and finding her place in the world.

Synopsis: Pride and Prejudice follows the life of Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates societal pressures, family drama, and her growing attraction to the mysterious Mr. Darcy. The novel explores themes of love, class, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

2. “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë

Why Joey Would Read It: As someone who’s had to overcome personal hardship and rise above her circumstances, Joey would connect with Jane Eyre’s journey of self-discovery, resilience, and independence. The novel’s gothic romance would also appeal to Joey’s romantic side.

Synopsis: Jane Eyre tells the story of an orphaned girl who, despite a harsh upbringing, grows into a strong, self-reliant woman. As Jane navigates love, betrayal, and personal growth, she learns the value of self-respect and moral integrity.

3. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey’s introspective nature and her tendency to reflect on her emotional struggles would draw her to Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar. The novel’s exploration of mental health, identity, and the pressures on young women would resonate with Joey’s own search for meaning and fulfillment.

Synopsis: The Bell Jar follows Esther Greenwood, a young woman who spirals into depression as she struggles to find her place in the world. The novel explores themes of mental illness, societal expectations, and the quest for personal autonomy.

4. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey, who is incredibly close with her sister Bessie, would appreciate the family dynamics in Little Women. The character of Jo March, an independent, headstrong woman who fights for her dreams, would be someone Joey deeply identifies with.

Synopsis: Little Women tells the story of the four March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate growing up during the Civil War. The novel explores themes of family, love, sacrifice, and the struggle between personal ambition and traditional roles.

5. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey’s introverted and contemplative side would draw her to The Perks of Being a Wallflower. She would relate to Charlie’s struggles with finding his voice, navigating first love, and dealing with the complexities of friendship.

Synopsis: The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age story about Charlie, a shy and observant high school student who begins to come out of his shell with the help of new friends. The novel deals with themes of mental health, trauma, and the trials of adolescence.

6. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey’s romantic and dramatic side would be drawn to the intense, turbulent love story in Wuthering Heights. The novel’s themes of unrequited love, longing, and emotional intensity would resonate with Joey’s own experiences in relationships, especially her complex feelings for Dawson and Pacey.

Synopsis: Wuthering Heights is a gothic tale of love and revenge, centered on the passionate, destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. The novel explores themes of obsession, betrayal, and the darker side of love.

7. “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey, who often feels torn between different life paths and desires personal growth, would be inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert’s journey of self-discovery. The book’s themes of travel, healing, and finding one’s true self would speak to Joey’s own aspirations to break free and explore the world.

Synopsis: In Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert embarks on a journey to Italy, India, and Indonesia after a painful divorce, seeking pleasure, spirituality, and balance. The memoir explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and the pursuit of happiness.

8. “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey, who grew up in a challenging family environment, would find inspiration in The Glass Castle, a memoir about overcoming a difficult childhood. The resilience of Walls’ family, despite their flaws, would resonate deeply with Joey’s own experiences and her love for her sister and her father.

Synopsis: The Glass Castle is a memoir about Jeannette Walls’ unconventional, poverty-stricken upbringing with her eccentric, nonconformist parents. The book explores themes of family, resilience, and the complicated nature of love and loyalty.

9. “A Moveable Feast” by Ernest Hemingway

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey’s love for travel and her dream of studying art in Paris would draw her to Hemingway’s memoir about his early years in Paris as a struggling writer. The book’s exploration of creativity, ambition, and the bohemian lifestyle would appeal to Joey’s adventurous and literary spirit.

Synopsis: A Moveable Feast is a memoir about Ernest Hemingway’s years in 1920s Paris, where he lived among fellow expatriates and developed his writing. The book captures the essence of life in the city and explores themes of creativity, inspiration, and love.

10. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

Why Joey Would Read It: Joey, who has a strong moral compass and a desire to stand up for what’s right, would be moved by To Kill a Mockingbird’s themes of justice, empathy, and courage. The novel’s message about standing up against prejudice would deeply resonate with her.

Synopsis: To Kill a Mockingbird tells the story of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in the racially divided American South, as her father, Atticus Finch, defends a Black man falsely accused of rape. The novel explores themes of racism, morality, and the loss of innocence.

Conclusion

Joey Potter’s bookshelf would be filled with emotional, introspective, and thought-provoking reads that explore personal growth, self-discovery, and the complexities of love and family. Whether she’s reflecting on classic love stories or delving into memoirs of resilience and survival, Joey’s reading list would reflect her deep inner life and her constant search for meaning in the world. From feminist heroines to literary rebels, Joey would find inspiration and solace in these powerful narratives.