Giselle-Inspired Reading List with Schuler Books
Between the Pages and the Stage: A Giselle-Inspired Reading List with Schuler Books
What pairs better with a haunting love story than a good book?
In anticipation of Deos Contemporary Ballet's upcoming production of Giselle, we've teamed up with our friends at Schuler Books to put together a reading list inspired by the world of this timeless story.
Filled with tragic romance, mysterious worlds, ghostly encounters, and stories of love, loss, and everything in between, this collection is perfect for anyone who loves a little gothic romance or wants to explore the themes behind Giselle a little further.
Whether you're looking to dive deeper into the world of ballet or simply searching for your next can't-put-it-down read, there's something here for you.
So grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and explore our reading list!
About the Ballet: Step Into the World of Giselle
Before you experience Giselle on stage, get to know the story and the world that inspired it.
A beautifully illustrated retelling of the classic ballet, this book offers a wonderful introduction to the story of Giselle and the enchanting world surrounding her.
City of Night Birds by Juhea Kim
Set in the demanding world of professional ballet, this novel explores ambition, artistry, identity, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of a dream. A compelling choice for readers who want to explore the human stories behind the art form.
Retellings: Love, Magic, and Reinvention
Some stories are so powerful they deserve to be told again and again. These selections explore familiar themes through new worlds, characters, and perspectives.
A Crown of Ivy and Glass by Claire Legrand
A fantasy filled with romance, family secrets, magic, and complicated relationships. Perfect for readers who love sweeping fantasy worlds and emotionally charged love stories.
The Myrtle Wand by Margaret Porter
A historical fantasy-inspired story that blends romance, mystery, and the supernatural, offering another perspective on the enduring appeal of magical and romantic storytelling.
Similar Vibes: Gothic Romance, Ghosts, and Beautifully Dark Stories
If the haunting atmosphere of Giselle is what draws you in, these books are for you. Expect mysterious settings, supernatural elements, forbidden romance, and characters caught between love and loss.
Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt
A lyrical and unusual tale about a young woman who encounters Death himself and must navigate questions of love, mortality, and fate. A beautiful pick for readers drawn to romance with a darker edge.
Lakesedge by Lyndall Clipstone
Dark fantasy, a mysterious estate, dangerous magic, and a haunting romantic atmosphere make this a natural fit for fans of gothic storytelling.
House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig
Inspired by the classic fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses, this gothic fantasy follows a young woman investigating a series of mysterious deaths in her family. Expect secrets, ghosts, and an eerie atmosphere.
A gothic romantic fantasy featuring a young woman who can see Death himself. With a mysterious manor, dark secrets, and an unusual romance, this book is full of the haunting beauty that makes stories like Giselle so captivating.
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
A dark fantasy filled with eerie magic, dangerous secrets, and an unforgettable world. Perfect for readers who enjoy atmospheric storytelling and a touch of the supernatural.
A dark, gothic fantasy romance featuring forbidden love, dangerous secrets, and an unsettling world where the supernatural is never far away.
Take the Story From the Page to the Stage
From ghostly encounters to complicated love stories, these books explore many of the same themes that make Giselle such an enduring and captivating ballet.
A story of young love, betrayal, heartbreak, and the extraordinary power of forgiveness, Giselle invites audiences into a world where love doesn't always end when life does.
We're so grateful to Schuler Books for helping us bring this reading list to life and connecting local readers with stories that celebrate imagination, artistry, and storytelling in all its forms.
Ready for a little drama beyond the pages?
Join Deos Contemporary Ballet for Giselle, November 13–15 in Grand Rapids.
Experience the romance, the heartbreak, and the haunting beauty of this reimagined classic.
🎟️ Get your tickets to Giselle
📚 Explore the Giselle-inspired reading list at Schuler Books
Please note: Book availability may vary by location. Schuler Books can order all of the titles featured in this reading list, even if they are not currently in stock.