The summertime for college students can sometimes be stressful--juggling a job or internship while at the same time trying to enjoy the time you have off from school. One of the things that I love to do in my free time is read! College doesn't allow much time to leisurely read during the school year, so during breaks is the perfect time to discover some new books and go on a new adventure. Here are some books that I personally love and want to share.
"All The Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr
I read this book a long time ago, when I was a senior in high school. I just chose it because my teacher gave us choices on what books to write about for our reports, and this one seemed the most interesting. Four years later, as a senior in college, this book is still one of my favorites. The story follows a blind French girl and a German boy, both of whom are presented from their own point of view and separated. The story is placed during World War II, and follows the story of both these characters as the girl finds herself in new places, meeting new people, and discovering what the meaning of "sight" is, while the boy discovers a talent for radios that he uses to get away from and help in various situations. The different point of views between these two characters creates a contrast between the varying lives that the war touched, and sheds light on how the war can affect others indirectly involved. It is a great read for those who like history based pieces, as well as those who enjoy seeing a single story evolve from two point of views.
"Memoirs of a Geisha" by Arthur Golden
I just finished reading this book. Although there was controversy about whether or not the geisha culture in the book was accurately represented, the story of the main character is a classic tale that can be found in various books and other forms of literature throughout time. It follows a young girl born in a small village and allows readers to track her journey into becoming a famous geisha. Written in the first person, the book is descriptive in the different aspects of how the main character learns her new craft, navigates the loopholes and suffers the consequences of her mistakes. It is a coming-of-age tale that I feel many can relate to (in terms of growing up and becoming a woman), and shows the ups and downs of growing up in an unknown world. It is a great read for those who love historical fiction and coming-of-age tales, as well as an emotional adventure throughout the main character's life.
"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
Written in 1813, this book is one that I consider one of the classics. Older books can be a slow read, especially if the story simply follows the day-to-day activities of a regular family. This story made an impression of me, however, due to the fact that it is a relaxing read and it employs the trope of a "prince charming." The story follows that of a young woman and her sisters, all of whom are of age to marry. A young, rich bachelor and his friend, Mr. Darcy, move into their small town and change everything for the main character, Elizabeth Bennett, and her family. She suddenly finds herself swept up in a society of which she has never experienced and her values are challenged because of this. Although this is a classic book and a relatively slow read, it is a great choice if you are just trying to relax by the poolside or the beach and soak up the sun.
"This Earth of Mankind" by Pramoedya Ananta Toer
I recently read this book for a class, but it is one that I thoroughly enjoy. The story follows a young man, Minke, and his life in the small country of Java while under Dutch colonial rule. The book explores various problems and stories that is associated with the colonization of Java, and makes readers think about the era of imperialism and colonization in a whole new light. Minke has one foot inside Javanese culture and one foot in Dutch culture, and he constantly tries to navigate through the clash of customs, traditions, and rules set by both his own culture and that of the Dutch. This book is one that will make you think outside the box--it is a great read for those who are interested in a history-based book, as well as learning about the impact that colonialism can have on a country, it's citizens, and it's culture. This book is part of a four part series, so if you can't get enough of this book, there are more stories to be told and more adventures to be experienced.
