What Drew Barrymore Reads

Drew Barrymore holds many titles: actress, producer, director, talk show host, businesswoman, mother, and author. Her most recent book, Rebel Homemaker, dives into her unique way of doing things by sharing recipes, stories, and photographs from her life. She is also an avid reader, and we’ve compiled a list of books that she’s shared her love for. From memoirs to classics to contemporary reads, all of these books left their impact on Barrymore.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Evelyn Hugo lived a glamorous and scandalous life as a Hollywood actress in the 1950s, up until she left the scene in the ’80s. But now she’s ready to reveal the truth about everything, including her seven husbands. She singles out an unknown journalist for the job, and while Monique doesn’t know why Evelyn chose her, this story could change her life. As Evelyn tells the tale of ruthless ambition and an epic forbidden love, the story starts to intertwine with Monique’s life in a tragic and irreparable way.

Bossypants by Tina Fey

“The way Tina Fey wrote as a woman made me laugh as a woman about everything in life.”

In a series of sharp and hilarious autobiographical essays, Tina Fey sheds light on the journey of her career. From her dreams as a young girl to being an iconic comedian on TV, Fey reveals the truth of showbiz: you’re irrelevant until someone calls you bossy.

Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris

“If anyone knows what it’s like to be alone on Christmas, I’m sure they will have wished they had this book. It’s a humor guide for what could seem lonely, and it sets you up for joy.”

This collection of essays is a celebration of the holidays with the signature humor and wit we’ve come to expect from “one of the funniest writers alive” (Economist).

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

“Under the most severe conditions a human can endure, Viktor E. Frankl teaches us the alternative to being a victim and becomes the greatest teacher.”

In this personal memoir, Viktor E. Frankl details the time he spent in the Nazi concentration camps and how he managed to find meaning during the darkest times.

Strong is the New Pretty by Kate T. Parker

“Bringing up two girls, this encapsulates what I want to instill in them.”

This collection of photographs depicts the strength, spirit, beauty, and authenticity of girls being themselves.

Franny and Zooey by J.D. Salinger

“This book surprised me. I didn’t see it coming. And yet it wasn’t trying to trick me; it made me feel like a welcomed fly on the wall.”

Split in two parts, this novel explores the emotional turmoil that comes with entering adulthood.

Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann

“This is my guilty-pleasure read. Harvey Fierstein gave me a copy of this and I ate it up with a spoon.”

Three women become best friends and try to make a name for themselves in a world where their only role is to be a housewife. When they reach the top of the entertainment industry, they realize the only place to go now is down.

Shopgirl by Steven Martin

“This is the book every woman should read because you might actually believe – in one small, delicate novel – that a man understands us.”

When shopgirl Mirabelle and wealthy businessman Ray Porter start a relationship, they struggle to understand the language of love in this heartbreaking and humorous story.