By Hannah Herrlich, Emerging Technologies Librarian

Deck the halls with final exams, term papers, and returned library books. Before we say adieu to the Fall semester and 2024 calendar year, let’s sign off with one final blog post brought to you by your favorite (only) Fordham University Libraries blog.

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December is the perfect time to get lost in a book, while curled up on the couch, all bundled up in a blanket, and a piping hot cuppa’… [insert beverage of choice here] in your hands.

December also is the perfect time to indulge in tasty treats and warm, sugary beverages. Not sure what to sip or snack on while you get through your winter break reading list? Fear not, the Fordham Libraries has you covered.

So You’re Reading…

It’s no secret that our catalog has so many books available, both in-print and e-books. After a long semester of reading required course texts, it’s about time to crack open some books in new genres to read for pleasure. Below, find which genre your next read is in, and we’ll tell you which winter-approved drink goes with it.

Fantasy

Drink: Turmeric Latte

→ Recipe ←

Its vibrant, golden hue feels almost otherworldly, like a potion crafted by an alchemist or wizard. The color alone sets the stage for a magical reading experience, evoking thoughts of glowing treasures or enchanted elixirs. What’s more, turmeric has a long history rooted in ancient traditions and is often associated with healing and mysticism.

Reading Recommendations:

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The Magician’s Land by by Lev Grossman

Babel, or, The Necessity of Violence by R. F. Kuang

Snack Pairing: Sugar Cookies

Thriller/Mystery

Drink: Chai Latte

→ Recipe ←

Thrillers and mysteries often are full of unexpected twists, red herrings, and nuanced characters. The chai latte, with its blend of spices, offers a similarly layered experience. Plus, when you’re on the edge of your seat, a chai latte offers a soothing balance. The creamy texture and warm spices create a comforting counterpoint to the book’s suspenseful moments, helping you stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

Reading Recommendations:

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

The Long Fall by Walter Mosley

One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware

Snack Pairing: Carrot Cake

Biography

Drink: Earl Grey Tea

Recipe→ Just steep the tea bag in hot water and you’re good to go!

Earl Grey tea has a long history and classic appeal, much like the timeless tales found in biographies. Sipping a cup of Earl Grey evokes a sense of connection to the past, fitting for exploring someone’s life story.

Reading Recommendations:

A Beautiful Mind by Sylvia Nasar

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Snack Pairing: Scones

Romance

Drink: Hot Chocolate

→ Recipe ← 

Romance stories are filled with tender, heartfelt moments. Hot chocolate’s rich, velvety sweetness mirrors the warmth and affection at the heart of these tales.

Reading Recommendations:

Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Márquez

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Snack Pairing: Marshmallows

Non-Fiction

Drink: Herbal Tea

Recipe→ Similar to Earl Grey, steep your favorite herbal tea in hot water and voila!

Non-fiction often requires focus and reflection, whether you’re learning about history, science, self-improvement, or philosophy. Herbal teas like chamomile, mint, or a calming blend of flowers and herbs can help clear your mind while keeping you engaged.

Reading Recommendations:

The Master Switch by Tim Wu

The Lost City of Z by David Grann

The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson

Snack Pairing: Tea Sandwiches

Science Fiction

Drink: Matcha Tea (Latte)

→ Recipe ←

Matcha is both ancient and cutting-edge, much like the science fiction genre, which often blends past traditions with future possibilities. Drinking matcha feels like embracing both the wisdom of the past and the promise of tomorrow.

Reading Recommendations: 

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K. Dick

Binti: The Complete Trilogy by Nnedi Okorafor

Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell

Snack Pairing: Nerikiri

Horror

Drink: Black Coffee

Recipe→ I mean…

Horror stories often deal with dark themes, deep suspense, and high-stakes tension. The bitter, rich flavor of black coffee or espresso mirrors the sharpness and intensity of a horror narrative. Just like a chilling moment in a book, it’s a drink that wakes you up and demands your attention.

Reading Recommendations:

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

The Shining by Stephen King

Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

Snack Pairing: Toast

Historical Fiction

Drink: Hot Apple Cider

→ Recipe ← 

Hot apple cider has deep historical roots, particularly in regions where apples were cultivated and harvested for centuries. In the past, cider often was enjoyed as part of harvest celebrations and was a staple in rural homes. This drink offers a nostalgic, comforting quality that matches the reflective nature of historical fiction, which invites readers to think about the life and times of those who came before us.

Reading Recommendations: 

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

Snack Pairing: Apple Cider Donuts

Well that’s all folks! Enjoy your holiday break and we will see you in 2025!

~Your Fordham University Libraries~