High Literature: The Best Books for an Elevated Mind

There is nothing that can compare to reading while enjoying an elevated mood. Whether that’s through smoking, vaping, or enjoying yummy snacks, it’s time to start laughing. 

You could be looking for something to make you laugh or just enjoying a calm and cozy afternoon with that cannabis cookie. 

We’ve put together a list of the best types of books to read while high – dive into a murder mystery, a trippy travel book, or a gory goblin grove. 

Relax Reads 

Humorous and lighthearted books can enhance your mood. They can also keep you entertained without too much effort. 

Here are some of our favorites: 

• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy – Douglas Adams This sci-fi comedy follows the adventures of Arthur Dent as he travels through space with a group of oddball characters. The humor is dry, witty, and often nonsensical—perfect for a relaxed, high mind.
• Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas – Hunter S. Thompson This cult classic is the chronicle of a drug-fueled road trip through the Nevada desert. This trippy book is hilarious. Thompson’s wild writing style will have you laughing and intrigued. 
• The Secret Life of Plants – Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird A controversial experiment that reveals unusual phenomena associated with plants including the ability for plants to talk to each other.

Philosophical and Trippy Reads 

If getting high sends you into a contemplative mood, you might enjoy books that challenge your perceptions and encourage deep thinking.

• Be Here Now – Ram Dass A classic in spiritual literature, this book combines philosophy, spirituality, and psychedelic-influenced wisdom with groovy artwork. It’s a great read for self-reflection and exploring higher consciousness. This far-out read written in the early 70s gives you a quick education on the research that Dass did with LSD. 
• House of Leaves by Mark Danielewski  A mind-bending classic about a house that is larger on the inside than the outside! It is called a horror masterpiece and has many reviews including a review from The New York Times – “Simultaneously reads like a thriller and like a strange, dreamlike excursion into the subconscious.” 
• Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance – Robert M. Pirsig A philosophical journey wrapped in a road trip narrative, this book explores the nature of quality, existence, and personal discovery. It’s a deep and rewarding read for a reflective mindset.

Fantasy and Si-Fi

Nothing transports readers to other worlds like science fiction and fantasy. When you’re high, the experience can be even more magical. 

• Dune – Frank Herbert This epic sci-fi book dives into the world of intricate politics. The story’s exploration of consciousness makes it a fascinating read while elevated. 
• The Hobbit – J.R.R. Tolkien An adventurous tale of Bilbo Baggins’ journey to reclaim treasure from a dragon. The whimsical storytelling and rich descriptions make it a delightful experience.
• 2001: A Space Odyssey – Arthur C. Clarke A profound and thought-provoking sci-fi novel that explores the evolution of humanity, artificial intelligence, and the mysteries of the universe. The surreal cosmic journey pairs well with an elevated mind.

Arty Books and Graphic Novels  

What’s in a word? When words alone aren’t enough, graphic novels and art books offer stunning visuals to captivate the mind. Check out some of your favorite books from when you were a kid! 

• High Art: A cannabis inspired art contest View all the beautiful cannabis-inspired creations from the previous High Art Contests! You’ll learn more about each artist as well as see amazing art curated from all around the world.
• Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein  Endless amusement for adults and children alike with its witty rhymes and surreal drawings. The poems and drawings bring back childhood memories when reading alone or with someone special. This was a recommendation of Green Eugene along with others on his blog.
• The Sandman – Neil Gaiman This dreamlike series blends mythology, fantasy, and horror with stunning illustrations. The surreal storytelling and imaginative artwork create a hypnotic reading experience.
• The Arrival – Shaun Tan A wordless graphic novel that tells a moving immigration story through breathtaking illustrations. The detailed and surreal artwork makes it a mesmerizing journey.

Psychedelic and Spiritual Reads

For those who use cannabis as a tool for self-discovery and spiritual exploration, these books offer wisdom and insight.

The Artist Way – 

• The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, a guide to wealth and happiness by Eric Jorgenson. A collection of Naval Ravikant, “Navalamanack” transcripts, tweets, and talks he has shared through social media. He takes a look at interpretations of financial success. Naval is a self-taught investor, capitalist, and engineer. This was Josh’s recommendation!
• The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist follows the journey of Santiago, a young shepherd who dreams of discovering a hidden treasure. The novel explores the “Personal Legend”—one’s true purpose in life. This simple yet deeply philosophical storytelling makes it an ideal read for those seeking inspiration, personal growth, and introspection.
• The Tibetan Book of the Dead Also known as Bardo Thodol, The Tibetan Book of the Dead is an ancient Buddhist text that serves as a guide for the soul’s journey between death and rebirth. Providing insights about the nature of existence, impermanence, and the illusion of self. The book’s mystical teachings can be intriguing when read in an altered state of mind. It’s encouraged to deeply reflect on the nature of reality, consciousness, and the afterlife.

Think you don’t wanna read? Just try it! Before you read, create a warm, welcoming space. Set up pillows, blankets, make a cup of tea, or grab a glass of wine. The atmosphere where you read is a part of the experience. 

Take a trip to a nice park, set up a blanket and relax under the trees, bring snacks, and enjoy your book while you relax into your experience 🙂 It’s all good! 

No matter what type of high you’re experiencing, there’s a book to match your vibe. So grab your favorite strain, settle in, and lose yourself in the pages of a great book. 

Happy reading!