10 Books Like Where the Crawdads Sing You Should Read

Delia Owens’ Where the Crawdads Sing captivated readers worldwide with its tale of Kya Clark, the Marsh Girl. If you're still searching for that same sense of wonder and connection to nature, you're in the right place. In this blog, WiPDF.com will recommend to you the top 10  books like Where the Crawdads Sing that share these key themes and atmospheres.  

1. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd  

Set in 1964 South Carolina, this coming-of-age story follows Lily Owens, a girl escaping an abusive father. She finds refuge with three Black sisters who keep bees, and through them, she learns about love, family, and resilience.  

Like Kya, Lily seeks belonging and acceptance in a world that has been harsh to her. The rural setting and the detailed portrayal of nature make it one of the perfect books like Where the Crawdads Sing.  

2. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah  

This historical fiction novel, set in Nazi-occupied France, tells the tale of two sisters and their separate, yet intertwined, paths of survival during World War II.  

While the setting and time period differ, the core theme of survival under difficult circumstances resonates with readers who enjoy Kya’s struggles. Both novels highlight women facing isolation and the harshness of their environments, all while fighting to protect those they love. It's an ideal pick if you're looking for  books similar to Where the Crawdads Sing.  

3. Saltwater by Jessica Andrews  

Saltwater tells the story of a young woman navigating life after her mother’s death. Raised by her father in a remote lighthouse, she must confront the secrets of her family and her own identity.  

The strong connection to a remote, natural setting and the journey of self-discovery draws strong parallels to Kya’s relationship with the marsh. Saltwater also explores family dynamics, much like Kya’s complicated past with her parents.  

4. Swamplandia! by Karen Russell  

Set in the swamps of Florida, Swamplandia! is about a quirky family that runs an alligator-wrestling theme park. After the mother’s death, the family struggles to keep the park afloat, and Ava, the protagonist, must navigate the challenges that arise.  

Both novels are deeply rooted in their swampy, isolated settings. Ava, like Kya, grows up in an unconventional, wild environment, and the story combines a blend of family dynamics, survival, and coming-of-age elements. This is one of the books to read if you like Where the Crawdads Sing.  

5. The Island of Sea Wolves by Erik Larson  

This historical fiction novel follows a group of castaways stranded on a remote island. Facing dangerous conditions, they must rely on each other and the unforgiving natural world to survive.  

Nature plays a crucial role in this story, much like it does in Kya’s life. The isolated setting and the characters' relationship with their environment provide a similar sense of survival against the odds, making it an excellent book like Where the Crawdads Sing .  

6. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett  

The Vanishing Half is a powerful exploration of identity and race, following the lives of identical twin sisters who make radically different choices about how to live their lives. One lives as Black, and the other passes as white.  

Themes of identity, belonging, and societal judgment mirror Kya’s experiences as an outsider. The complex relationships and emotional depth make this a great companion for books like Where the Crawdads Sing.  

7. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern  

A magical realist novel, The Starless Sea follows Zachary Rawlins as he uncovers a mysterious book that leads him on a journey through time and fantastical worlds.  

While this novel ventures into magical realism, it shares  Where the Crawdads Sing 's focus on hidden worlds and the exploration of secrets. The atmospheric writing will appeal to readers who love the vivid descriptions of the marsh, making it one of the best books like Where the Crawdads Sing.  

8. The Wild Unknown by Anna Jean Mayhew  

Set in the rural South, The Wild Unknown tells the story of a young woman who returns to her childhood home after a tragic accident. As she faces the ghosts of her past, she must come to terms with long-buried secrets.  

The southern setting and themes of isolation, family, and the search for identity make this book a compelling read for fans of Kya’s journey in Where the Crawdads Sing.  

9. The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré  

In this powerful novel, a young Nigerian girl named Adunni fights for her education and the right to have a voice in a world that tries to silence her.  

Like Kya, Adunni is a resilient character who fights against all odds to carve out her place in the world. Both stories are deeply moving, focusing on the strength of the human spirit.  

10. The Mermaid of Black Conch by Monique Roffey  

This magical realist tale takes place on a small Caribbean island and follows a fisherman who rescues a mermaid from her captors. The novel is a blend of myth, magic, and the exploration of human relationships.  

The story’s isolated, natural setting and its exploration of loneliness and connection to the environment will appeal to readers who love the atmospheric qualities of Where the Crawdads Sing.  

Conclusion  

Whether you're drawn to the beauty of nature, the complexities of human relationships, or the power of the human spirit, there's a book on this list that will resonate with you. If you’re still searching for books like Where the Crawdads Sing , these recommendations should be at the top of your list. Happy reading!