Hollywood'S Bookish Buzz: 8 Celeb Picks From Reese, Jenna, And Stars Lighting Up December Reads

The Rise of Celebrity Book Clubs

Celeb book clubs are more than just a trend-they're a full-blown phenomenon that's got everyone from Hollywood to London talking. Ever since Oprah Winfrey kicked things off in the '90s, stars like Reese Witherspoon, Emma Roberts, Dua Lipa, and Jenna Bush Hager have been curating monthly reads that shoot straight to the top of global bestseller lists, blending glamour with literary vibes. These picks aren't just books-they're conversation starters that highlight diverse voices and stories, proving that celebrities are the ultimate influencers in the world of words.

What's driving this? It's all about sharing passion and connecting fans across continents, from LA red carpets to Seoul's bustling streets. With media empires like Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, these clubs are empowering authors and readers alike, making books a staple in pop culture's hottest spots.

Why Celebs Love Recommending Books

Diving deeper, celebrities often gush about how books shape their lives and inspire others. For instance, Emma Roberts teamed up with her best friend Karah Preiss back in 2017 to launch Belletrist, turning book recs into a joyful ritual that resonates worldwide.

"I absolutely love reading; I love sharing how books make people feel... books are really important to me, and if I can share that, I'm on the right track," Dua Lipa shared in a 2023 Elle UK interview, capturing the heart of why these clubs thrive. This quote sums up the magic, showing how stars use their platforms to spotlight stories that matter, from family dramas to tales of empowerment, keeping the literary world buzzing with energy.

December's Must-Read Picks from the Stars

Dua Lipa's Festive Favorite

Dua Lipa is wrapping up the year with a pick that's pure holiday magic, selecting "Brightly Shining" by Norwegian author Ingvild Rishøi. This contemporary twist on Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Match Girl" mixes wonder and hope with a darker edge, exploring themes like addiction and community kindness. Lipa noted that the story lingered with her, making it a standout for December reads that hit deep.

With a Goodreads rating of 4.03/5, it's the ideal cozy yet thought-provoking choice, perfect for global audiences seeking stories that blend emotion and reflection during the holidays.

GMA's Cozy Home Drama

Good Morning America's book club is dishing out "Best Offer Wins" by Mariska Kashino, a gripping tale about chasing the dream house and the lengths we'd go for it. Imagine ditching the white picket fence drama for real-life twists that feel straight out of a Hollywood script.

Rated 4.03/5 on Goodreads, this pick taps into universal themes of ambition and home, making it a hit for readers in places like Mumbai or Paris who love a story with heart and edge.

Jenna Bush Hager's Timeless Classic

Jenna Bush Hager is channeling nostalgia with her December choice, a fresh take on Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." She credits her grandmother for sparking her love of Austen, recalling family listens and PBS marathons that made it unforgettable.

Hager shared that Austen was a pioneer in showing love and womanhood, hoping this edition introduces new fans worldwide-with a Goodreads rating of 4.29/5, it's a bridge between classic lit and modern vibes, ideal for curling up anywhere from London tea shops to LA lounges.

Reese Witherspoon's Holiday Romance

Reese Witherspoon is all in on festive fun with "The Heir Apparent" by Rebecca Armitage, packing royals, romance, and family drama into one irresistible package. She calls it the ultimate holiday escape, where a woman carves her own path amid twists and turns.

Boasting a 4.04/5 Goodreads rating, this pick from her Reese's Book Club highlights diverse storytelling that's capturing hearts globally, from Hollywood hills to international best-seller shelves.

Emma Roberts' Emotional Closer

Emma Roberts and Belletrist are ending 2025 on a high note with "Lightbreakers" by Aja Gabel, a novel that dives into human connections and the tricky role of time in healing or stealing moments. It's a moving exploration that's got fans talking about love in a fast-paced world.

With a 3.72/5 rating on Goodreads, this pick offers a heartfelt wrap-up that's resonating with readers everywhere, blending depth and emotion for a truly engaging read.

Dakota Johnson's Wild Ride

Dakota Johnson's TeaTime book club is serving up "Thirst Trap" by Gráinne O'Hare for a fun, emotional adventure full of heart and humor. It's all about friendship, life's uncertainties, and one last round before calling it a night-making it a lively end-of-year pick.

Rated 4.59/5 on Goodreads, this story's exuberant vibe is perfect for global crowds seeking laughs and real-talk amidst the holiday rush.

Natalie Portman's Inspirational Choice

Natalie Portman is spotlighting "Finding My Way" by Malala Yousafzai, a powerful memoir on purpose, university life, and growing up as a Nobel laureate. It's an uplifting read that shares Malala's journey in a way that's both personal and motivational.

With a 3.78/5 Goodreads rating, this pick inspires readers worldwide, from Paris intellectuals to Seoul's young dreamers, emphasizing resilience and self-discovery.

Oprah Winfrey's Thought-Provoking Pick

Oprah Winfrey is keeping it real with "Some Bright Nowhere" by Ann Packer, a story about a long marriage shaken by a heart-wrenching question after 40 years. It explores love's complexities and what happens when a partner's final wish turns everything upside down.

Rated 3.54/5 on Goodreads, this selection reminds us that even in celebrity circles, books tackle the big questions, making it a must for thoughtful readers across the globe.