Women's Health July 12, 2026 0 Comments

Unlock Drew Barrymore’s Secret to Radiant Energy: The Unexpected Books That Keep Her Inspired and Fit!

Drew Barrymore is no stranger to the spotlight—wearing hats as an actress, producer, talk show host, and savvy businesswoman. But here’s a curveball: amidst all the glitz and glam, she’s got a genuine, heartfelt love for books. Growing up in Hollywood royalty, her childhood was anything but ordinary, and her reading list? Equally eclectic. From soul-stirring self-help gems to raw, gritty autobiographical fiction, Drew’s picks reveal a lot about the woman behind the fame. Ever wondered which reads shaped her world? Well, brace yourself for a surprising, inspiring journey through some of her all-time favorite pages. Ready to dive in? LEARN MORE

As an actress, producer, talk show host and businesswoman, Drew Barrymore has seen it all—and she’s also read it all. Turns out the star is a big reader. Growing up in one of Hollywood’s most legendary families gave her a childhood unlike anyone else’s, and her reading list reflects it, ranging from soul-searching self-help to gritty autobiographical fiction. Curious which books have left the biggest mark on her? Keep reading to find out.

Drew Barrymore’s favorite books

‘The Four Agreements’ by Don Miguel Ruiz

This self-help book by Don Miguel Ruiz is a favorite of Barrymore’s. Highlighting the practical code of personal conduct based on ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements spells out four core principles. The first is to “Be Impeccable With Your Word,” followed by “Don’t Take Anything Personally,” “Don’t Make Assumptions” and “Always Do Your Best.” Barrymore spoke about why the novel is one of her favorites and how it helped her during a time of need.

Why Drew loves it: “This is a book I found at a very hard time in my life, and it rescued me,” Barrymore explained, according to The New York Times. “It offers succinct and approachable advice about how to behave in life.”

What readers are saying: “There are only four agreements, but they are a challenge to keep, and I certainly feel my life has improved by striving to keep them actively guiding my life. It is a good read.”

‘A Farewell to Arms’ by Ernest Hemingway

The actress adores Ernest Hemingway’s novel, “A Farewell to Arms,” a first-person account of an American, set during the Italian campaign of World War I. While she does enjoy self-help books and autobiographies, this war and romance novel is a winner for Barrymore.

Why Drew loves it: “I defy a women to read this and not cry,” Barrymore said. “It is so romantic, and epic—even when it takes place in one room.”

What readers are saying: “I’m not a Hemingway guy…But the settings of this book were beautiful, and the dialogue between characters, poignant.”

‘Women’ by Charles Bukowski

The autobiographical fiction novel follows alcoholic Henry Chinaski, who works at low-paying jobs and then spends his money on women and booze. But when he sees his poetic star finally rising, he begins to revel in his new rockstar life.

“Bukowski is my favorite, for me he was always on point,” Barrymore said.

But while Women is generally a book for an adult audience, the actress shared that she was reading Bukowski’s work at a young age. Though, given she began working before her first birthday, it’s no surprise she grew up quickly and began reading books ahead of her time.

Why Drew loves it: “I had a different childhood from anyone I knew,” Barrymore said. “I listened to Jim Morrison rather than Sesame Street, and I read Charles Bukowski. I thought that it was normal, until I was 10 years old, talking about Bukowski to a 35-year-old, who reacted, ‘How the hell do you know that?’ It was just me and my mom. She didn’t have many friends, and neither did I.”

What readers are saying: “This is the story of pain and consistency, his life moving along with each labored step, unwillingly. It is the story of rejection, acceptance and our own inherent ability to survive without really trying.”

‘Still Life With Woodpecker’ by Tom Robbins

This book is a love story, which takes place inside a pack of Camel cigarettes. It reveals the “purpose of the moon, explains the difference between criminals and outlaws, examines the conflict between social activism and romantic individualism, and paints a portrait of contemporary society.”

Why Drew loves it: “A love story that is filled with poetic analogy,” Barrymore said when describing the book. “This man speaks in strange and delicious descriptions.”

What readers are saying: “Still Life with Woodpecker, more than anything else, is about CHOICE.”

‘Oh, the Places You’ll Go!’ by Dr. Seuss

This book being one of her favorites may come as a surprise, but her reasoning is simple. The Dr. Seuss book serves as an inspirational guide to kids for the milestones they will achieve and challenges they will face.

Why Drew loves it: “Because sometimes you need to be reminded your journey is meaningful in the sweetest way. Hope for all ages.”

What readers are saying: “Written for children from age 1 to 100. Embrace new adventures and changes in your life!”

From the autobiographical fiction novels to self-help books, these are a few of Drew Barrymore’s favorite books, so pick one up and give it a try!

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