Essential Reads for Leicester Students: Books Close to Home and Beyond

If you're a student in Leicester, you're in luck: not only are you studying in a vibrant, multicultural city, but you also have ties to some amazing literary figures and stories. Here's a reading list of books and authors connected to Leicester that will inspire, entertain, and maybe even help you feel more at home.

1. The Adrian Mole Series - Sue Townsend

One of the most famous book series set in Leicester! Written by local author Sue Townsend, this book discusses the humour and struggles of growing up in a way that still hits home today. If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed by uni stress, Adrian’s misadventures will remind you that chaos is just part of the journey.

2. Richard III - William Shakespeare

Richard III has ties to Leicester in that his body was famously discovered here during an excavation, and is now buried at Leicester Cathedral. Shakespeare wrote a play around the late king - a must read if you want to learn a bit more around the character you’ll hear so much about whilst living here!

3. Ladybird Books

From the Elves and the Shoemaker to Cinderella, you likely read at least one iconic Ladybird book when you were little. The illustrated books actually originated in Loughborough, just outside of Leicester - a proud part of local publishing history! If you don’t fancy one of the classics, there’s lots of stories for grown-ups including a guide to ‘The Student’, ‘The Hangover’, and even ‘Brexit’.

4. A Life on Our Planet - David Attenborough

Sir David Attenborough is a national treasure - if you don’t love him, there’s something wrong. He was born in Leicester, which gives you the perfect excuse to read ‘A Life on Our Planet’ whilst studying here. It’s both a memoir and a powerful call to action about the environment, inspiring you to think about your future.

5. Madame Doubtfire - Anne Fine

Sound familiar? ‘Madame Doubtfire’ was the inspiration for the hit film ‘Mrs Doubtfire’, and was written by local author Anne Fine. Her book is an easy read if you want a quick study break, balancing nostalgic humour with more serious themes. If you adore the film, you’ll love the book, as the storyline is very similar with an equally iconic main character.

6. The Canterbury Tales - Geoffrey Chaucer

Whilst this book is based in, of course, Canterbury, Chaucer has a connection with Leicester too! He was married in the city’s St Mary de Castro Church, bonding him to the historic place. ‘The Canterbury Tales’ is a famous English literature text that gives an insight into medieval life and storytelling - you’ll be sure to impress your lecturer if you tell them you’ve read this.

7. Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela

Leicester honours Nelson Mandela with its Nelson Mandela Park, located in the heart of the city centre. Whilst ‘Long Walk to Freedom’ isn’t directly tied to Leicester, reading Mandela’s autobiography reminds us of the values of resilience, justice and unity - factors that are deeply valued in the city’s vibrant community.

 Leicester isn’t just a place to study; it’s a city rich with literary ties and inspiring stories. Our Leicester accommodation is full of lots of quiet reading nooks to lose yourself in the world of Adrian Mole or David Attenborough. Find out more about our accommodation and reserve a room today: true student Leicester