Book Whisperer Shares Galentine's Day Favorites

Celebrate female friendships with these beloved backlist novels

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In honor of Galentine's Day on February 13th, book blogger Linda Sullivan has curated a list of her favorite novels that explore the complexities of female friendships. The list includes both recent and decades-old titles that have been adapted into movies and TV shows, highlighting the universal and enduring appeal of stories about the power of chosen family.

Why it matters

Galentine's Day has become a popular way for women to celebrate their platonic relationships and chosen family. Sullivan's recommendations provide a reading list for those looking to immerse themselves in stories that capture the depth and nuance of female friendships.

The details

Sullivan's list includes classics like "Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle-Stop Cafe," "The Joy Luck Club," and "The Divine Secrets of the YaYa Sisterhood," as well as more recent hits like "The Secret Life of Bees," "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan," and "Firefly Lane." Many of these novels have been adapted for film and television, further cementing their status as beloved tales of female bonding.

  • Galentine's Day is celebrated annually on February 13th.

The players

Linda Sullivan

An avid reader and book blogger who curated the list of Galentine's Day novel recommendations.

Leslie Knope

The character from the TV show "Parks and Recreation" who popularized the unofficial Galentine's Day holiday in a 2010 episode.

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What they’re saying

“Even though they are backlist books published as many as forty years ago, their themes are universal, so they are still available to purchase and borrow.”

— Linda Sullivan, Book Blogger (knoxtntoday.com)

What’s next

Readers can find these novels at their local library or independent bookstore and enjoy them with their own "galentines" to celebrate the power of female friendships.

The takeaway

Sullivan's list of Galentine's Day novel recommendations highlights the enduring appeal of stories that explore the complexities and depth of female relationships, providing a reading list for those looking to immerse themselves in tales of chosen family and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.