Why Gilmore Girls is Every Bookworm’s Comfort Show

If there’s one character who has inspired generations of bookworms, it’s Rory Gilmore. She’s the ultimate literary role model, isn’t she? From her perpetually growing stack of books to her sharp references that often leave others playing catch-up, Rory is the embodiment of the bookish dream. She’s not just a reader; she’s a lifestyle. And as someone who has watched Gilmore Girls more times than I care to admit (okay, at least 15), I’ve come to appreciate how reading isn’t just a part of Rory’s character—it’s the heart of her story and a cornerstone of the show itself.

Let’s dive into the reading themes, shall we? First, Rory’s boyfriends. Say what you will about them, but each played a role in her literary journey. Dean—the first boyfriend, the sweet and steady one—was the original book-boyfriend. He might not have been a reader himself, but he respected Rory’s passion for books. Remember those moments at the Stars Hollow book fair? Dean patiently waited as Rory agonised over which books to buy, never rushing her, always supportive. Honestly, the man deserves a medal for enduring hours of book fair indecision. He didn’t need to share her love of reading to understand how much it meant to her, and that quiet encouragement set the tone for how her partners would treat her literary side.

Then there’s Jess. Oh, Jess. The bad boy with a secret stash of books and a penchant for underlining meaningful passages. Jess wasn’t just supportive of Rory’s reading; he was an intellectual equal who challenged her. He introduced her to new authors, debated her on literary topics, and connected with her on a deeper level through their shared love of words. Their relationship was built on a mutual appreciation for literature, and let’s be honest—who didn’t swoon when he gave her a copy of Howl? Jess brought a spark to Rory’s literary life that felt electric and inspiring. Plus, who doesn’t love a brooding bookworm with a leather jacket? It’s like a YA fantasy come to life.

And then we have Logan. Logan’s relationship with Rory’s reading was different. He wasn’t a reader in the same way Jess was, but he admired Rory’s intellect and drive. Logan saw her potential as a journalist and encouraged her to aim high. While he might not have spent hours discussing books with her, he respected her ambitions and provided a different kind of support—one that pushed her to pursue her dreams beyond the pages of a novel. Logan’s role in Rory’s life wasn’t about sharing her passion for books; it was about recognising and celebrating her brilliance. Let’s be real, though: Logan’s idea of a book club was probably a champagne-fuelled debate about yachts, but hey, he tried.

But let’s not reduce Rory’s bookishness to her romantic relationships. Her love of reading is a fundamental part of her identity. From the pilot episode, where she’s reading Moby-Dick at the kitchen table, to her endless to-read lists, Rory’s life revolves around books. They’re her escape, her comfort, and her guide. Her reading list, famously sprawling and ambitious, has inspired countless fans to create their own Rory-inspired challenges. And can we talk about how she reads everywhere? At Luke’s, on buses, during town meetings—Rory’s commitment to reading is unparalleled. If there were a Guinness World Record for “Most Books Read While Drinking Coffee,” Rory would win. Hands down.

What makes Gilmore Girls so special, though, is how it normalises and celebrates reading as a joyful, communal activity. Stars Hollow itself feels like a haven for book lovers, with its quirky book fairs and town events. Lorelai’s playful teasing about Rory’s bookishness only underscores how central it is to who Rory is. Even non-readers in the show—like Lorelai and Sookie—appreciate and support Rory’s love of literature, making it feel like a shared celebration rather than an isolating hobby.

And then there’s the mother-daughter bond at the heart of the show. Lorelai and Rory’s relationship is filled with love, laughter, and an unshakeable belief in each other’s dreams. Watching them navigate life together, often with a book in Rory’s hand and coffee in both of theirs, is endlessly comforting. It’s a reminder of the kind of support and encouragement we all need to chase our passions—whether that’s reading, writing, or anything else.

For me, Gilmore Girls isn’t just a show; it’s a touchstone. It’s shaped the way I think about ambition, relationships, and the quiet joys of curling up with a good book. Rory’s passion for reading is infectious, her determination inspiring. And while she’s far from perfect (who is?), her love of literature is something I’ll always admire. Also, her ability to read a massive novel in what seems like a single afternoon? Sorcery.

So here’s to Rory Gilmore, the quintessential bookworm. Here’s to the hours spent poring over her reading list, to the boyfriends who held her books and debated her choices, to the quirky town that celebrated stories in all their forms. And here’s to Gilmore Girls, the show that made us laugh, cry, and fall in love with reading all over again. If you need me, I’ll be re-watching it for the 16th time, coffee in hand and a book by my side. Probably Moby-Dick, because apparently, that’s where it all begins.