Pisces are the dreamers of the zodiac, known for being creative, empathetic, romantic, and intuitive. This star sign has a knack for seeing the beauty in everything but can sometimes get lost in their own fantasies — or the fantasies in a good book.
As I gathered some of the best books for Pisces readers like you, I focused on your innate traits — exemplified perfectly by the titular Anne of Green Gables — along with your areas of interest, like spiritual exploration (The Alchemist) and artistry (Creative Quest).
The result? A list of 16 fiction and nonfiction books every Pisces should read. Let’s get started!
1. The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
Our Pisces reading list begins with Allende’s debut novel from 1982 — the book that established her as one of top Latin American literary talents of our time.
The House of the Spirits is a sprawling family tale that introduces readers to generations of the Trueba family (and Chilean political history). Pisces readers may identify closely with Clara, the mother and wife who keeps the clan together. She also happens to be a clairvoyant. (Deeply empathetic, sensitive, and spiritual, Pisces are the most psychic of the signs.)
2. Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
Wowing critics and audiences alike, this lyrical and layered novel won prestigious awards (the Orange Prize and PEN/Faulkner Award) and was adapted into a popular movie starring Julianne Moore and Ken Watanabe.
When a gala for the international elite devolves into a long-term hostage situation, opera singer Roxane Coss is among the captives. Roxane’s talent proves the power of music, as her singing transcends language barriers and unites everyone involved, despite their vastly different backgrounds and experiences.
Demonstrating the value of creative expression and human compassion, Patchett’s novel is a natural choice for a Pisces reading list.
3. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Pisces are drawn to spirituality and metaphysical practices, so Coelho’s enduring classic is a must-read. Originally published in 1988, it’s been praised year after year as a life-changing book by almost everyone who’s read it, from Oprah to LeBron James.
Epic and uplifting, The Alchemist chronicles the life of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd who yearns for adventure in pursuit of a worldly treasure. Along the way, his journey transforms into one of self-discovery and fulfillment. Anyone in need of inspiration to follow their dreams will find a kindred spirit in Santiago and his story.
4. Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Anne Shirley is an unashamed romantic, a frequent daydreamer, a lover of art, poetry, and music, and one who feels her feelings — along with the feelings of others — very intensely. Sound familiar?
Montgomery’s story of a young orphan finding her way has charmed readers for generations. Anne’s imaginative spirit can inspire us all — no matter our star signs. Plus, her misadventures and mistakes only make this classic more endearing.
5. This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone
Is there anything more romantic than a love letter? This Hugo Award-winning novella contains the chaos of all time and space within its beautifully short, never-ending love story.
Two women, named Red and Blue, fight for opposite factions in the ceaseless time war, flowing from the past to the future, from timeline to timeline. Through a series of letters sent via tea and lava and other delightful delivery systems, Red and Blue fall for each other, and combine for some of the best purple prose around.
6. Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan
This dazzling debut whisks readers away to a beautiful world full of mythological creatures and magic as Xingyin attempts to free her imprisoned mother, the moon goddess, and is forced to choose between family and the fate of the world.
A new imagining of Chinese folklore, Tan’s epic adventure — and its sequel, Heart of the Sun Warrior — will captivate the imagination of every fantasy loving Pisces.
7. Stardust by Neil Gaiman
Often described as a fairy-tale for adults, Stardust is an enchanting adventure perfect for those who love romance and a little dose of magic.
Trying to win the heart of the beautiful Victoria, Tristan Thorn ventures out on a mission to retrieve the star they saw fall from the sky. To do so, he must cross over into the mysterious land beyond the wall. What he discovers there is a world he never thought possible and a star unlike anything he’d imagined.
8. The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
As a Pisces, Tan’s sensitivity and emotional depth shine in this relatable and heartfelt story of mothers and daughters.
On the surface, The Joy Luck Club is about four women meeting weekly to play mahjong. But once you dive in, you’ll soon find it’s a powerful and emotional story of immigrants finding community in a new country and bonding over shared aspirations for their children.
9. Siren Queen by Nghi Vo
In the golden age of cinema, a young Chinese American woman will do anything in her pursuit of fame, even some sinister magic. If you love the glamour of Old Hollywood, strong queer protagonists, and a seamless blend of the real and the surreal, Vo’s tale is a show-stopper.
Siren Queen is just right for Pisces who crave some escapism with a hint of magic — and a main character to empathize with.
10. Create by Marc Silber
Creativity may come naturally to most Pisces, but it’s still like a muscle that needs exercise. Consider Create a sort of boot camp for your brain — whether you’re feeling stifled or wondering how far you can push your artistic self.
Award-winning photographer and educator Silber brings together some of the best minds, from filmmakers to CEOs to TED speakers, to help readers pump up their creative lives and let their inner artists shine.
11. Creative Quest by Questlove
If you’re feeling a creative surge, let Questlove help you harness that energy. In Creative Quest, The Roots drummer and frontman — and one of the most inspiring musicians working today — reveals his own creative journey, and invites readers along for the ride.
12. Where to Draw the Line by Anne Katherine
Because Pisces are so empathetic, they often become emotional sounding boards for everyone in their lives. This is admirable — if proper boundaries are in place.
We all agree that boundaries are necessary, but how do we actually define and stick to them? Katherine’s actionable book puts the concept into practice. Drawing on case studies and elements of psychotherapy, Where to Draw the Line is every Pisces’ guidebook for protecting their emotional and mental health while still remaining compassionate.
13. This One Wild and Precious Life by Sarah Wilson
We may be more technologically connected than ever, but capitalism, consumerism, and pervasive screen time tend to leave us feeling less spiritually connected. Pisces, who crave connection with others (and their spiritual selves), may feel the detrimental effects of modern life more than others.
Enter this inspiring and motivating book. Wilson (I Quit Sugar) urges readers to take a step back from the practices that prevent us from living a full and joyous life. Interviews with philosophers, environmentalists, artists, and authors span topics ranging from climate change, minimalism, mental health, and mindful travel.
14. The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron
Pisces are some of the most sensitive people out there. Did you know that’s actually a superpower? From creativity to incredible observational skills, sensitivity is linked to a number of talents. Aron helps Highly Sensitive People (HSP) better understand themselves and their place in the world so they can lead more meaningful lives — and tap into great strengths.
15. Pageboy by Elliot Page
In one of the most anticipated celebrity memoirs of 2023, Page, a Pisces, reveals the complex process of shedding outside expectations and embracing one’s true self.
The Oscar-nominated actor (Juno, The Umbrella Academy) came out as transgender in 2020, but his memoir begins much earlier, allowing readers to follow along with Page’s vulnerable and powerful journey.
16. Elizabeth Taylor by Kate Andersen Brower
You may think you know Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor (one of the most glamorous Pisces in history), but behind her beauty, her eight marriages, and many shocking headlines was a woman who unapologetically knew her own worth — and the worth of those in need.
In the very first authorized biography of Taylor’s life, Brower (First Women) draws on archived letters and photos plus interviews with friends and family to explore the real Taylor, including her work in HIV/AIDS research, prevention, and advocacy.
