Our Recommended Reading List for School Counselors (Fiction Edition)

Whether you are reading this while soaking up the last few weeks of summer, preparing your office for the new year, or if you’re reading it mid-year and need a mental vacation, take a look at our recommended reading list for school counselors to find your next five star read! You can also listen to this podcast episode by clicking here. Our recommended reading list is in no particular order! Also, each section contains links to books that are in our Amazon store. If you click on these links, we may get a commission, but it won’t cost you any extra!

Kim’s Recommended Reading List for School Counselors:

This summer, I stepped out of my comfort zone. Normally, I dive headfirst into historical fiction. Jane Austen is my go-to, and I revisit her novels each summer like visiting old friends. But this year, I explored new genres, and I’m so glad I did! I even picked a book based on my travels to Alaska, and it did not disappoint.

Inspired by Alaska

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
Set against the breathtaking yet brutal backdrop of 1970s Alaska, The Great Alone is a powerful story about survival, resilience, and the complexity of trauma. It follows a teenage girl whose family moves off the grid after her father, a former POW, struggles with PTSD. This book will resonate with counselors through its exploration of generational trauma and emotional survival. Most inspiring, however, is the fierce determination of a young girl trying to find her voice amidst chaos. It’s a gripping and emotional read that beautifully ties into themes of family dynamics and mental health.

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This book is part literary thriller and part family drama. It begins with the disappearance of a young girl from a prestigious summer camp in the Adirondacks. As the investigation unfolds, so do long-buried secrets, generational wounds, and questions of privilege, parenting, and protection. Moore masterfully builds tension while weaving in themes that resonate deeply with school counselors. Characters grapple with the weight of expectations, hidden trauma, and the complexity of family systems. It’s both a page-turner and a reflection piece. Most importantly, it reminds us that what’s visible on the surface rarely tells the full story.

Because I enjoyed Liz Moore:

The Long Bright River by Liz Moore
In a city ravaged by addiction, two sisters walk very different paths. One is a police officer, the other is missing. The Long Bright River is a gripping crime novel. It is also surprisingly a deeply emotional exploration of family, trauma, and the impact of substance use. For school counselors, this story is a powerful reminder of the ripple effects of addiction on families and communities. It is a reminder of the quiet resilience of those who carry the weight of others’ choices. It’s suspenseful, compassionate, and layered with the kind of emotional complexity we often see in our students’ lives. A must-read for anyone who wants to better understand the intersection of trauma, love, and survival.

Because I Love Historical Fiction:

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
I normally shy away from books with a World War II Nazi-based focus. The topic is so heavy, and I end up grieving for days after finishing the book. But, I am so glad I picked up The Nightingale. It tells the harrowing yet inspiring story of two sisters who resist in very different ways. Through themes of sacrifice, courage, and the enduring bonds of family, the novel highlights the quiet heroism of everyday people. For school counselors, this story resonates deeply. It speaks to the strength found in adversity and the power of personal choice. It highlights the often-unseen struggles of those trying to protect others. It’s an emotional, unforgettable read that reminds us why empathy and resilience are at the heart of what we do.

A Bonus Read- Recommended by a Book Store Owner in Alaska

Two Old Women by Velma Wallis
This book is based on an Athabaskan legend passed down through generations. Two Old Women tells the story of two elderly women abandoned by their tribe during a harsh Alaskan winter. Against all odds, they survive—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually—rekindling their sense of purpose, strength, and community. For school counselors, this is a powerful tale of resilience and the underestimated potential in those we might overlook. It’s a quick read that speaks to the human capacity for growth and redemption at any stage of life.

Laura’s Recommended Reading List for School Counselors

As wild as it sounds, I haven’t read anything this summer! I do most of my reading during the school year. My recommended reading list is based on “un-putdownable” books that I have read throughout the year.

Thought-Provoking Reads

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
This novel begins with a woman at rock bottom who finds herself in a magical library where every book represents a different version of her life—each based on the choices she could have made. It’s a unique take on regret, mental health, and the power of perspective. For school counselors, The Midnight Library offers a reminder that even the smallest choices can shape a life and that there is always hope, even when things feel uncertain. It’s imaginative, philosophical, and ultimately affirming—perfect for a reflective read during or after a busy school day.

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
This heartwarming and quietly profound novel centers around an unlikely friendship between a lonely widow and a remarkably observant giant Pacific octopus named Marcellus. Set in a small coastal town, the story gently explores themes of grief, connection, and healing. For school counselors, this book offers a refreshing reminder that emotional growth often comes from unexpected places. Similarly, empathy, curiosity, and companionship can bridge even the deepest divides. It’s a feel-good read with surprising depth. It is perfect for those moments when you need to be reminded of the quiet power of listening and understanding.

More Suspenseful Reads

The One by John Marrs
The One by John Marrs is a thrilling ride through the emotional and ethical fallout of a world where science promises perfect love. It begs the question… at what cost? For school counselors, this book sparks rich reflection on identity, connection, and the human desire to belong. It’s fast-paced, suspenseful, and layered with the kinds of questions we often help students navigate. Think trust, relationships, and the complexity of choice. A gripping read that will have you wondering how well we really know ourselves—or anyone else.

Gray After Dark by Noelle Ihli
This novel follows a young woman navigating life after loss, grief, and the complicated layers of family secrets. Gray After Dark is a beautifully written exploration of what it means to find light in the midst of emotional darkness. For school counselors, it’s a powerful reminder of the hidden battles many students (and adults) face. It is rich in emotional insight and full of heart. This book invites reflection on the importance of safe spaces, compassionate listening, and the ongoing process of self-discovery.

Bonus Recommended Reading List for School Counselors!

Don’t forget that we’ve written a couple of books! First, our book Growing Your Program for School Counselors speaks directly to the heart of what we do. It is equal parts encouragement and action. We believe it is packed with practical strategies, real-life stories, and ready-to-use tools to help you build (or refresh) a program that truly meets students’ needs. Whether you’re new to the role or a seasoned pro, we hope it’s like sitting down with two supportive friends who get it—and who are ready to help you take your work to the next level. We believe it’s a must-have for your professional shelf!

If you’re looking for a fun, engaging way to introduce hygiene habits to younger students, Hi Gene is a must-read! Our lighthearted picture book uses humor, rhyme, and a lovable character named Gene to open up conversations about cleanliness, self-care, and social awareness—all while supporting early SEL goals. It’s perfect for classroom visits, small groups, or one-on-one sessions where you want to mix learning with laughter. Counselors will appreciate how easily it fits into character education and health-related lessons with minimal prep and maximum impact.

If you want more of our suggestions, check out this list, too!