I love to read, and I wish I had the time to sit down and read an entire book like I used to. Unfortunately, college is remarkably time consuming. Who knew? But here's a list of my ten favorite books:
10. A History of the World in 10 1/2 Chapters by Julian Barnes
I had to read this novel for my Honors English class, and was surprised by how much I actually enjoyed it. Witty and thought provoking, it is filled with parallels, metaphors, patterns, and symbolism—everything a word geek like me loves.
9. Paper Towns by John Green
I liked this book because it explores the theory of metaphorically paper structures, especially in the context of the fragility of life and relationships. And the movie is good.
8. The Haters by Jesse Andrews
This book is the tale of a ragtag, pessimistic, indie punk band that goes on their own makeshift tour. It's funny as hell, and the characters remind me of my friends from back home.
7. The People of the Abyss by Jack London
A nonfiction account of the time Jack London spent living in poverty in the East End of London (a.k.a. the Abyss), this short journal-style piece is eye-opening and informative. While it is a depiction of impoverished life in the early 1900s, the socioeconomic disparities between the poor and the well-off still exist in similar ways today. London's analyses of the state of society are still applicable even in modern times.
6. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
My brother introduced me to this very short book with big font. It’s essentially Adichie’s transcript from a TED talk she gave, and details her experiences as a Nigerian woman and provides insight to the feminist movement—namely, what it means to be an intersectional feminist. I personally think everyone should read this book, regardless of race, gender, or age. It’s that important.
5. Looking for Alaska by John Green
Yes, there’s two John Green books on this list. Yes, it’s okay to hate me. This book had me laughing, trying to solve a mystery, and sobbing uncontrollably in a matter of pages. 10/10.
4. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews
It's true, I like this book better than The Fault in Our Stars by John Green--sue me. While the premise is sort of the same as TFIOS, with a Dying Girl, Andrews doesn’t necessarily romanticize cancer. Andrews keeps the relationships between Greg, Earl, and Rachel real; especially the awkwardness that embodies Greg.
3. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Before you start groaning like you’re back in eleventh grade English class, hear me out. The Great Gatsby isn’t a classic for no reason. Its poetic prose develops the intricate characters of Jay and Nick, making us both love and despise them. Now, does that mean that the closing lines are worthy of so many preppy teenagers’ senior quotes? Not at all. But it’s still a great book.
2. The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
My dad listened to the audiobook version of this novel, loved it, and kept asking until I finally got around to reading it. Not only is the main character a dog, it is an incredibly wise and all-knowing pupper named Enzo. The life lessons he’s learned as somebody’s pet and best friend translate into human life. And I can guarantee you’ll be in tears by the end.
1. The Beast Side: Living (and Dying) While Black in America by D. Watkins
Another nonfiction book (I’m sorry), this semi-autobiographical account explores racial tensions in Baltimore, institutionalized racism, and police brutality. Sharp, informal, and unapologetic, The Beast Side gives unique background on some of the most significant issues facing America today. It’s incredibly educational for such a fast read, so it is currently my favorite book to reference and recommend to friends.
