The books we like define who we are. Whether it be science fiction, fantasy or romance, what we choose to read is an aspect of our personalities as a whole. 

Because of this, avid readers often have a special relationship with our favorite books. When a novel transports us to a deep, lush woods, we want to imagine ourselves walking along the large trees and smelling the crisp forest air. 

One way to communicate your love for your favorite novel while connecting deeper with it is by activating your olfactory senses. A smell can remind you of your favorite book, or just pay homage to it!

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 10 classic books and scent pairings for them — check out a preview below, or skip down to the infographic. 

One way to communicate your love for your favorite novel while connecting deeper with it is by activating your olfactory senses, which is where these fragrance and book pairings come into play. Take a look!

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I earn a small commission at no extra charge to you. Thanks!

For General Book Lovers: Bibliothèque by BYREDO

For those who aren’t defined by genre, BYREDO created a scent that aims to capture the scent of an old library filled with leather-bound books and large wooden shelves. This perfume combines sweet, floral elements with earthy elements of leather and patchouli to give you the romantic feeling of walking through a library. 

Inspired by “La Mare au Diable” (aka “The Devil’s Pool”): George by Jardins d’Ecrivains

the devils pool

Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin, known by her pen name George Sand, was an independent and prolific writer who didn’t want to be defined. Inspired by her exciting life, George by Jardins d’Ecrivains is a simple yet intriguing scent that combines notes of coffee, tobacco, florals and citrus. This perfume is just as unexpected and inviting as its namesake. 

Inspired by “Dune:” Cinnabar by Estee Lauder

Dune series

A classic in the science fiction genre, “Dune” centers around a drug called the spice, and the lives of those who guard it. Step into the world of “Dune” by sporting a spicy scent that is just as mysterious, bold and daring as the novel. Cinnabar by Estee Lauder combines spicy notes of cinnamon and cloves with florals, peach and citrus to create a truly unique scent. 

Inspired by “Earthsea:” Aqua Celestia by Maison Francis Kurkdijan 

The world of Earthsea in this iconic high fantasy book series is composed of vast islands and bodies of water, surrounded by an uncharted ocean. Celebrate the excitement and magical themes of the novel while paying homage to the water elements as well. Aqua Celestia is a serene scent that combines cool mint and florals.

Inspired by “Into the Wild:” Feuilles de Tabac by Miller Harris

In this memoir, Jonathan Krakauer follows Christopher McCandless on his journey through the Alaskan wilderness that ultimately claimed his life. Pay homage to this novel and to the life of McCandless by pairing it with a woodsy, outdoorsy scent that is similarly daring. 

For more book and scent pairings, check out this infographic from FragranceX:



10 Classic Books and Perfumes to Match Them (Infographic)

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API