If you’re like me and you’ve had your nose in a book for most of your life, you’ve read quite a few books, but only a few of these books can be considered gems in your lexicon of literature. These four books have each had a significant impact on myself as a reader, and I have included reasons as to why you should read, and what ways they may interest you.
1. Alan Mendelsohn, the Boy from Mars – Daniel Pinkwater
"Alan Mendelsohn, the Boy from Mars" is a science fiction novel about mind control, biker gangs from another universe, and learning how to eat even the hottest chili. Our brave hero is not your typical Chosen One. He’s a “portly” junior high student whose clothes wrinkle as soon as he puts them on, his best friend is from mars and causes the whole school to riot over his Martian ancestry, and he goes to see a “shrink” once a week in the neighboring town. Although the intended audience is meant for boys in junior high, people of all ages and genders will enjoy this journey of friendship and astral projection.
2. The Dark Wife – Dara Deimer
Written in true Young Adult fashion "The Dark Wife" is a first person view of the story of Persephone in Greek mythology, but with a twist; Hades is a goddess. While I have no business in what gender an ancient deity chooses to be, you still have to give props for lesbian representation in a YA novel. So if you like Greek mythology and lesbian romance, this novel is for you.
3. I Kill Giants - Joe Kelly, J. M. Ken Niimura
"I Kill Giants" is an artful graphic novel about a fifth grader who kills giants. Along with life’s other worries like bullies, school, friends and preparing for the next Dungeons and Dragons session Barbara Thorson finds, hunts, and kills giants. She’s a ruthless dungeon master, a wielder of giant hammers, and not afraid to put a bully in their place. Besides the beautiful art, the novel includes themes of mental health, family, bullies and still manages to keep readers interested. It will leave you watery-eyed and you’ll want to tell your friends about this journey.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café – Fannie Flagg
Probably one of my favorite books that tells the story of friendship between Evelyn Couch and the elderly Ninny Threadgoode. The plot can be hard to follow at times because it can change time and setting without warning, but once you get the hang of it this books is ultimately a great read about race, growing old, and a queer relationship that lasts a lifetime. If you enjoy stories of elephants visiting sick children, photographing the body of a serial killer, and old women ramming the back end of teenager’s cars then you should read this Fannie Flagg masterpiece.
