I have always enjoyed reading. Since I was young, reading has been one of my favorite past times. College was a big change for me, and I didn't have the time I once had to read for pleasure. Instead, I am now reading because I have to, and most of those books are in textbook form. When I have time to read, there are a few books that I tend to fall back on; my tried and true stories that will never fail me when I need a good read.
1. Harry Potter
Written by J.K. Rowling, the whole series is a rollercoaster of emotions (sorry for the cliche but I love it so much). The Harry Potter series is my number one go-to when I need a good book to read. It has everything, adventure, excitement, love, etc. If you have seen the movies, and who are you if you haven't these days, you should definitely read these books. There is so much the movies didn't capture when telling the story.
2. The Hobbit
The Hobbit is the prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, written by J.R.R. Tolkien. It is the book Bilbo Baggins has written for Frodo to read after he is gone, so Frodo might understand his journey and be inspired to go on an adventure himself. This book is packed with adventure on every page! The movies also just came out, which is great but the book is ALWAYS better.
3. The Percy Jackson Series
This series is one that will interest any Greek mythology fans. The novels written by Rick Riordan follow a young boy (Percy) as he comes to terms with his father being one of the ancient Greek Gods and everything that entails. He learns how to wield his powers for good and meets some great friends along the way. The Percy Jackson series is no longer producing any new books, but Riordan has created a new series along the same lines called the Heroes of Olympus, which follow Percy and his friends as they become young adults.
4. The Book Thief
This is a novel by Markus Zusak, about a young girl in World War II-era Germany. It follows her story as she is taken in by a foster family and the bonds she develops with her new parents. Liesel sees first hand the horrors of the Nazi regime, and how it affects those around her and herself. Through it all, she tries to preserve her innocence and continue to see the good in others and the world.
5. The Hunger Games
It has been all over the media lately, with the final installment of the movies coming out, but the books by Suzanne Collins are even better than the movies (cliche, I know). There are so many details the movies either changed or left out completely, that I would be remiss if I didn't recommend this wonderful trilogy. Each book is a quick read, and would be great if you only have a couple of hours to spare.
With spring break on its way and many college students heading towards the beach, or at least away from school, having some good leisure books on hand is not a bad idea. Reading for pleasure is also a great way to relieve some of that stress from school, and to take a break from that textbook that may make you want to fall asleep. Even if it is just to unwind from a long day for a few minutes right before you go to bed, reading something is a whole lot better than sitting on your phone or watching a couple of hours of Netflix unwind.
