When we think of our favourite stories, we’re often drawn to the big characters: the bold, the charismatic and the outspoken. Sometimes, though, the quiet heroes can be just as – if not more – powerful. Whether they’re anxious, shy or just downright standoffish, these characters might be harder to suss out at first, but, once you do, you’ll find it’s well worth the investment.

If you’re an introvert yourself, reading a book about a character that reflects you can be reassuring as well as inspiring. With that in mind, here are 15 examples of beautiful books that introverts will relate to, ranging from literary classics by Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë, to contemporary YA by Sara Barnard and Alice Oseman, and childhood favourites from Roald Dahl and Michelle Magorian.

Each tale is, undeniably, very different. At their heart, though, they all share the same message: introverts may be quiet, but they have rich, hidden depths – and they absolutely shouldn’t be underestimated.

The beautiful books that speak volumes to introverts