Bookstores have always been a major attraction for me wherever I go. When I'm traveling to different cities or countries famous books by well-known authors are my favorite souvenirs. I never pass a bookstore without going in, even if it’s for five minutes, and always walk out with a book or two. Books have always been a welcome companion, whether I am by myself in my room and have nothing to do, waiting at a café for a friend, or just about anywhere. I always have a book with me. I was raised by parents who believe that reading is an essential part of life. They have always encouraged me to read books in different genres and by different authors. I could go on lecturing about the benefits of reading, yet one of the most important benefits for me, personally, is how it allows me to escape from the busy life that surrounds me, to put myself in someone else’s shoes, and to travel in time.
There are books that I have read more than once and classic works that I believe that everyone should read at some point of their lives. My five favorite novels have taught me so much and have given me the chance to live a life that is so far away from my current reality.
"Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens
I was first introduced to Dickens in high school and I immediately fell in love with his work. He is also known for his novels such as "Oliver Twist," "Hard Times," or a "Christmas Carol." With "A Tale of Two Cities'" most famous line "it was the best of times, it was the worst of times," Dickens captures the economic and political unrest that happens in Paris and London, which eventually leads to a revolution in France.
"Uncle Tom’s Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe
I read this particular novel when I was around 13-years-old and, ever since, it has been one of my favorite books of all time. Stowe’s "Uncle Tom’s Cabin" is a anti-slavery novel, capturing the struggles of Uncle Tom as a slave and his internal strength to keep and express his love, compassion, and kindness towards everyone around him, even those who express nothing but the evil.
"Picture of Dorian Grey" by Oscar Wilde
One of the most famous novels by Oscar Wilde, "Picture of Dorian Gray" is one of the most successful and scandalous books in English literature. Wilde’s novel is considered to be a masterpiece. As a reader I followed the main character, Dorian Gray, through his fascinating and intriguing story as he fell victim to his wish for an eternal life.
"Anna Karenina" by Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy, one of the greatest Russian writers, is well known for his novels such as "War and Peace," "A Confession," or "The Death of Ivan Ilyich." I grew up reading Tolstoy’s novels and poems and, one day, I came across my mom’s very old copy of "Anna Karenina" in our home library. Page after page, I was completely blown away by Anna Karenina’s love story and the hardships, challenges, and losses that she faced.
"The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
Salinger’s novel "The Catcher in the Rye" captures the struggles of Holden Caulfield. The main character is a teenager who is expelled from a prestigious private school and travels to New York City where he is faced with the "real world." His story full of interactions with nuns, prostitutes, exes, and siblings and is captivating to a reader of any age.
