Winter Break is full of exciting holiday plans, the chance to visit with family and friends, and free time to do whatever your heart desire, like read. Cassandra Clare's words could not be more precise and true: “One must be careful of books, and what is inside of them, for words have the power to change us.” Books are influential, giving us a feeling of home or a sense of place. Although books' effects depend on how we read them and how we understand their messages, opening a book is an opportunity to find adventure in a different life.

"Looking for Alaska"

John Green's novel, along with the movie currently being filmed, follows the adventures of Culver Creek Boarding School. Before, Alaska pulls Pudge into her world, launches him into the Great Perhaps, and steals his heart. After, nothing is ever the same.

"The Book Thief"

"The Book Thief" follows the life of Liesel Meminger, a 9-year-old girl in Germany during World War II. Narrated by Death, the novel describes both the beauty and destruction of life during this time.

"The Handmaid's Tale"

A theocratic government overtakes America and initiates a new class system to keep order. Margaret Atwood explores politics, gender roles, and class systems in this dystopian novel.

"Gone Girl"

Gillian Flynn's novel tells the story of Nick and Amy Dunne's difficult marriage, with changing narration, unexpected plot twists, and suspense.

"The Great Gatsby"

F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel focuses on the life of a mysterious millionaire, Jay Gatsby, in the Long Island summer of 1922. "The Great Gatsby" explores themes of idealism and the American Dream, comments on the Roaring Twenties and tells the story behind a green light across the water at the end of a dock.

"The Picture of Dorian Gray"

Oscar Wilde's novel features a nihilistic, self-indulgence and the extravagant side of living a double life. Wilde said, "Behind every exquisite thing that existed, there was something tragic," so we'll just leave it at that.

"Bossypants"

Tina Fey's hilarious autobiography chronicles her process of moving from her front desk position at a local YMCA to the comedic queen she is today. Her writing is honest, personal, real, and hilarious. "Bossypants" is full of laughs as well as wisdom to live by.

"Just Don't Fall"

"Just Don't Fall" is Josh Sundquist's astounding story, showing the transformation into the man he became. Through a heroic struggle, multiple hospitalizations and worse, Josh became an award-winning skier in the Paralympics and renowned motivational speaker.

"Pride and Prejudice"

This classic Jane Austen love story features headstrong Elizabeth Bennet and her aristocratic suitor Fitzwilliam Darcy. Elizabeth deals with her tactless mother, Mrs. Bennet, her eccentric younger sisters, and a humbling of her pride before the novel can come to its splendid conclusion.

"The Girl on the Train"

Rachel takes the same commuter train every morning. Every day Rachel sees flashes of cozy suburban homes, stopping at the signal that allows her to watch the same couple enjoy breakfast on their deck. Their life, to Rachel, is perfect until she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough. Now everything’s changed.

"Yes Please"

Amy Poehler writes a clever, funny and ultimately inspirational read. Filled with the comedy that makes us all love Amy,"Yes Please" is a collection of stories, lists, and advice. With chapters like "Treat Your Career Like a Bad Boyfriend" and "Plain Girl Versus the Demon," this book will make you think as much as it will make you laugh.