Country singer Ashley Cooke is used to reading on the road.
“Reading is one of my favorite activities to do when I travel, whether I’m on my tour bus or flying. It’s such a fun way to disconnect from reality,” the singer — whose new song “the hell you are” came out Friday — tells Page Six.
The singer adds that she loves picking up a wide variety of genres.
“While I typically like grabbing a new release at the airport, it’s also fun to read some of the classics or something to help me find inspiration,” she tells us.
See below for Cooke’s six must-read books.
“I’m usually all about those slow-burn love stories, but ‘Verity’? This book is a whole different beast. It’s dark, it’s twisted, it’s romantic in the most messed-up way and I could not put it down. 10/10 recommend if you want your heart racing and your jaw on the floor.”
“This one hit me right in the soul. As someone who’s been chasing a dream in country music, this story felt so real. Alex talks about how success isn’t just about waiting in line or having the perfect plan, it’s about finding that third door, the unexpected path no one tells you about. That hit home for me. If you’re chasing anything — music, a business, whatever — read this book. It’s like a pep talk mixed with a backstage pass to success.”
“Man, this book is a classic for a reason and brings perspective that not many other books do. It’s not just a book … it’s a reminder. A reminder to slow down, to call your people, to ask the big questions and actually listen. Morrie’s wisdom hits different when you’re on the road chasing a dream. He talks about love, regret, purpose — and I swear every word made me think of my grandparents, my mentors and every little moment I’ve ever taken for granted.”
“‘It Ends With Us’ broke my heart in a way that felt honest and necessary. Lily’s story is powerful. It’s about love, but not just the kind in fairytales. It’s about choosing yourself, even when it hurts. It’s messy, it’s brave and it’s real.”
“This book lit a fire in me. It’s bold, it’s raw and it feels like a deep breath you didn’t know you needed. ‘Untamed’ is about shaking off everything the world tells you to be … and finally listening to your own voice. I constantly need that reminder as I’m surrounded by so many voices and opinions, constantly told how to sound, look, feel — this book reminded me that you can be soft and strong. Wild and wise. Loud and loving.”
“I did not expect to fall headfirst into a fantasy world, but y’all, this book swept me away. Feyre is a warrior, a dreamer, a survivor … and honestly, I saw pieces of myself in her. Think ‘Beauty and the Beast’ meets ‘Hunger Games,’ but with way more steam and way deeper heart.”