Carly Rae Jepsen Shares Her 5 Favorite Books — Including a Vampire Novel and a Russian Classic

Carly Rae Jepsen Shares Her Literary Inspirations on Bustle’s ‘One Nightstand’

The pop sensation Carly Rae Jepsen recently delighted fans by sharing her top five book recommendations during the “One Nightstand” series on Bustle, an episode aired on September 1. Hosted by Charlotte Owen, the series invites celebrities to reveal the books that have significantly influenced their lives.

Jepsen, best known for her hit single “Call Me Maybe,” discussed various authors, offering a glimpse into the literary works that have shaped her perspective as an artist. The first title she highlighted was Leonard Cohen’s *Book of Longing*, a collection of poems penned during the songwriter’s time at a Zen monastery. Jepsen reflected on how she and her husband, Cole M.G.N., connected through Cohen’s poignant poem “Disturbed This Morning” during the early stages of their relationship.

“It’s a racy poem, but leave it to Leonard Cohen to do exactly that — dark, sexy, mysterious,” Jepsen commented. Her appreciation for Cohen’s artistry is evident, and it sparked a discussion on how personal moments intertwine with creativity.

Next on Jepsen’s list was Haruki Murakami’s memoir, *What I Talk About When I Talk About Running*. The Japanese author shares his reflections on the dual pursuits of writing and running, two passions that Jepsen resonates with deeply. She noted the significance of understanding an artist’s process, stating, “I love when an artist lets you inside their process a little bit. When I read this book, I was like, ‘Oh, okay. Maybe I’m not crazy.’”

According to Jepsen, Murakami’s work has helped her embrace the idea of a creative routine, encouraging a more forgiving mindset towards the writing process. “You show up every day whether you think you’re going to have an idea, and you’re less judgmental about what you’re making,” she explained.

Jepsen then shifted gears to discuss Lena Dunham’s memoir, *Famesick*, which chronicles the author’s journey through fame and her struggles with health. The singer shared how Dunham’s eloquent portrayal of her personal experiences resonated with her own feelings of suddenly being thrust into the limelight. “I found it really liberating to see someone talking about it,” Jepsen remarked, highlighting how literature often serves as a source of solidarity and understanding.

In a slightly different vein, Jepsen recommended Anne Rice’s classic novel *Interview with the Vampire*. Describing the book as “a riveting page turner,” Jepsen recounted her initial reading during a trip, followed by her husband’s retelling of the narrative to help her cope with insomnia. “I don’t really like to be too scared but I like a little thrill,” she stated, showcasing her complex relationship with horror literature.

The final title Jepsen mentioned was Leo Tolstoy’s *Anna Karenina*, a literary masterpiece that captures her admiration in its exquisite prose rather than its plot. Jepsen expressed, “The writing is so good. I wouldn’t care what was being talked about. It’s just so beautifully put and it’s so cinematic.” Her appreciation for rich language and vivid imagery highlights a deeper connection to literary artistry.

A fascinating aspect of Jepsen’s discussion was her self-admitted fluctuating relationship with reading. “I’ll go through phases where I’m like a book girl… and then there’s a drought, and I just kind of become a TV girl for a minute,” she explained, reflecting on her journey as an evolving reader.

As she gears up for the release of her new album, *Day and Night*, set to debut on September 18, Jepsen’s engagement with literature reveals the multifaceted nature of her creative expression. Whether through melody or the written word, Jepsen’s artistic journey continues to inspire and resonate with her fans, inviting them to explore the books that have shaped her unique perspective on life and creativity.

In summary, Carly Rae Jepsen’s insightful recommendations offer not just a glimpse into her personal tastes but also underline the important role that literature plays in fostering creativity and personal growth.