Books Set On Islands

(image by Elias via Pixabay)

There's nothing more romantic than an island vacation. A peaceful piece of paradise where you can lay on the beach, basking in the sun, and read novels full of mystery and horror. There are many novels that take place on islands, and sometimes those novels have darker plot elements that show isolation. The island itself can become a character, driving forth a narrative through the use of weather, plant life, and animal life. And the people in these stories often turn against each other in an effort to survive, as in William Golding's The Lord of The Flies. If you're intrigued by books that take place on islands, and enjoy a good mystery or horror novel, then we have some selections for you at San Jose Public Library!

Adult Reads

Island Teen Reads

For some nonfiction reads: There are quite a few books that have been written about shipwrecks and survival at sea. The survivors of these situations have shared their stories throughout time. One account of survival was told late one night at an inn on Nantucket. The man, who survived the tragedy of the whaling ship Essex, told his tale to a young writer by the name of Herman Melville. This story inspired Melville to write the classic novel, Moby Dick. For more on the whaling ship Essex, check out Nathaniel Philbrick's book, In the Heart of The Sea and the movie made in 2016, starring Chris Hemsworth.

Survival At Sea: Nonfiction Reads

Island Movies

I have spent quite a bit of time enjoying California's Coastal region this summer. I love being by the ocean. And I am still #TeamOtter! There's still a bit of Summer left, so get outside and enjoy!