In a time when I have so little time to relax and read a good book, sometimes it's nice to go back to your roots and re-read a book you haven't read since you were a fresh-faced teen. Though some assigned readings from school seemed tedious at the time, the ones that weren't such a chore still found their way into my heart. As a writing major, I couldn't feel luckier to have been introduced to these inspiring masterpieces of literature just by going to class. To me, these are the literary discoveries that made all the difference for me.
1. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Have you ever wanted to go back to the posh 1920s without its hard-policing and staggering gender inequality? Now's your chance as you read one of the most beloved novels in all of American literature. As both a perfect 1920s period piece and a tragic love story, Fitzgerald's poetic writing and lovable characters make this book one that never gets old no matter how many times you read it.
2. "Siddhartha" by Hermann Hesse
Out of all the books released in the early 1920s this one is definitely one of the most timeless. A Buddhism-inspired masterpiece, this book enlightens you through its symbolism and magically foreign journeys as the protagonist Siddhartha goes on his spiritual journey towards Nirvana. If you don't know a lot about the philosophy behind Buddhism but want to learn more, this book makes the perfect introduction to your own enlightenment.
3. "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare
Out of all of the famous plays by Shakespeare, this one is by far my favorite. What makes this tragedy so effective is not only the artistic unfolding of this dysfunctional family, but also the way it breaks the main flaw of Shakespeare's previous plays: every single character is somewhat likable because they seem a lot more three-dimensional and relatable. Even when the characters are at their seeming worst, we can understand their attitudes, motives and actions because we can somewhat imagine yourself in these characters; it's as if we are deciding what we would do if we were in the other party's shoes. Add that aspect to Shakespeare's always ingenious writing skills and you have possibly the most compelling drama to ever hit a stage or printing press.
4. "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller
OK, so I'm kind of cheating by adding two plays to my list, but hear me out! Just like with "Hamlet," "Death of a Salesman" is hailed as a timeless masterpiece in theater because of the relatable characters, some of whom could remind audiences of their own family issues or struggles. This play is the prefect example of a character study in that we look at every aspect of the life of salesman Willy Lowman, from the effects of his bipolar period to his own mental stability. Arthur Miller's magnum opus is one that you have to experience on your own, either in print, on screen or on stage.
5. "Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank
What is it about this preteen's diary that makes it the most notable autobiography of the Holocaust? Well, for one thing, it's the fact that from our childhoods to some of our own friends or relatives, we all have an Anne Frank of our own. As a radiant young girl who always did her best to look on the bright side during the most dire circumstances imaginable, Anne's story is both tragic and somewhat endearing. As a beacon of light that refuses to go out, the story of Anne Frank, as told by Anne herself, is an extremely powerful book that you won't be able to put down or forget.
6. "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson
"Speak" was one of the first books I read in high school, and boy did it make an impression. At first glance, this seems like a simple, melodramatic tale of a young girl facing the throws of high school for the first time; but what Anderson accomplishes is so much more. In terms of its subject matter and how it's handled, "Speak" works as a very influential roadway for those beginning high school, bringing up mature content in a way that young people can understand, bringing awareness to issues rarely talked about and possibly preventing further actions like these one way or another. If that doesn't show the power of words and literature, I don't know what does.
7. "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradburry
This book is definitely up there as one of my favorites. Not only was this my first big introduction to science-fiction, but it has one of the most poignant messages I've ever read in a novel. Even to this day this book is completely original; it keeps me on the edge of my seat and makes me proud to be an avid reader during the takeover of social media.
8. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak
Another, more modern take on World War II fiction, the beginning of this book gives you a sucker punch that makes putting it down nearly impossible. The narration is dark yet fresh, and the characters and descriptions do what no other World War II novel can, which is suck you into the scenery and let you experience the events unfold with the characters. A slow-but-steady roller coaster ride from start to finish, I don't think I've read another book quite like "The Book Thief" and I'm honestly not sure I ever will. And I am perfectly OK with that.
9. "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini
Much like "Siddhartha," "The Kite Runner" immerses the audience in culture with two young boys living in Kabul, Afghanistan. Though the book does tread on some very dark subject matter and you thoroughly care for the welfare of these characters, the ending itself is one of the most beautiful I've ever read. "The Kite Runner" is one of the most emotional reads I've ever experienced; it's easily considered one of the most modern of classics in the 21st century.
10. "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy
In an apocalyptic world that's left bleak and void of color or hope, a father does the best he can to keep the light of humanity strong in his young son. Given McCarthy's other notable works, this seemingly disturbing dystopian novel is really quite touching. The bond between the father and son is wonderful, especially given the circumstances surrounding them. It's intense and compelling, and I was definitely lucky to have ended my high school career with such a gripping novel.
