The Bookish Ashley

Marissa Cooper, the iconic and complex character from The O.C., is a mix of vulnerability, rebellion, and a yearning for connection. Her reading list would reflect her emotional depth, love for drama, and introspective side. Here are the books we think Marissa would be drawn to:

1. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

Marissa would connect with this hauntingly beautiful novel about identity, mental health, and societal expectations. Plath’s raw and poetic prose would resonate deeply with her inner struggles.

2. Looking for Alaska by John Green

This tale of love, loss, and self-discovery would speak to Marissa’s free-spirited yet tragic nature. Alaska’s enigmatic character might even remind her of herself.

3. Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

The intense, passionate relationships in this classic novel would captivate Marissa. She’d be drawn to its gothic atmosphere and the complicated love story between Heathcliff and Catherine.

4. We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

This gripping, twisty tale of privilege, secrets, and tragedy would mirror some of the themes in Marissa’s own life. Its emotional punch would leave a lasting impression.

5. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Marissa would appreciate the glamour and heartbreak of Fitzgerald’s masterpiece. The themes of unrequited love, decadence, and disillusionment would feel all too familiar to her.

6. The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides

This hauntingly lyrical novel about the mysterious Lisbon sisters would intrigue Marissa. She’d relate to the themes of longing and the fragility of youth.

7. Normal People by Sally Rooney

Marissa’s introspective side would resonate with this modern love story about connection, miscommunication, and emotional complexity. Rooney’s raw, honest portrayal of relationships would deeply move her.

8. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

This epic tale of love, betrayal, and societal pressures would captivate Marissa. She’d find parallels between Anna’s tumultuous emotions and her own experiences.

9. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Marissa might find comfort and hope in Eleanor’s journey of healing and self-acceptance. It’s a story of resilience that could inspire her own path to recovery.

10. Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed

Marissa would benefit from the compassionate and heartfelt advice in this collection of essays. Strayed’s wisdom might give her the guidance and perspective she needs.

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Marissa Cooper’s bookshelf would be filled with emotionally charged and thought-provoking reads that reflect her complexities and search for meaning. What books would you add to her list? Let us know in the comments!