Book Recommendations

I think most of us bookworms have a list of literature that one has to experience in order to qualify as a person. I know I have such a list. Since I am often asked for book recommendations, I thought I'd share my top ten most favorite life altering absolute best books of all time. (Bear in mind that my own to-read list is approximately 80 miles long, and this list is subject to change.)

10. The Quiet American by Graham Greene

This novel is subtle, calculating, and perfect. It is as superbly written as it is insightful. This novel is for anyone interested in the peculiar politics of morality, the detached discussion of existentialism, the dangers of good intentions, or the brutal story of the Vietnam War.






9. Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Finish it, and it might change your life. Don't finish it, and you'll think it was a elementary, albeit innovative, story about a boy and his tiger.











8. Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Speaking of magic... I know a lot of people will make fun of me for including Harry Potter, but I think this series is fabulous. So many masterpieces are intentionally made only for the grasp of mature adults, but Harry Potter takes complex, abstract themes (courage, loyalty, bravery, love, evil, and the power of choice) and makes it accessible to kids, helping them both understand these concepts and aspire to good, all while spinning a wildly imaginative and breathtaking tale. I just love me some Potter. (PS- for those of you who would like to see the newly released trailer for the next movie, click here.)


7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

I love this book for the same reasons the rest of the world loves it: Its hilarity and passion, and its alternately heart-warming and heart-wrenching illustration of honor, innocence, and injustice. Atticus Finch remains perhaps the greatest literary hero of all time for reminding us that some things are worth fighting for, even if there is no chance of winning.
(I struggled between choosing this or Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns, but TKAM won out by a hair. Let it be noted, CST is also a worthy read.)



6. The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

I love this book for its shockingly obvious description of temptation. Eye-opening and dark, this novel nevertheless inspires the reader to lead a holier life.








5. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

I've been fascinated by the Holocaust for a long time, wondered at its magnitude, been appalled at its destruction. But I have never been so heart-broken by its horror as I was while reading this novel. This is why stories deserve to be told: Because they hold the transformative and revelatory power that enables us to empathize with others whose experiences we have never shared. So read Liesel Meminger's story. You won't be sorry.





4. Othello by William Shakespeare

I love this play for its dialogue on identity, evil, redemption, and choice. It is brilliance spewed on paper (and my absolute favorite Shakespeare piece.)










3. Half the Sky by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn

This is, quite simply, the best (and, I think, the most important) humanitarian book I have ever read. Rather than depress the reader with the enormity of problems preventing women from flourishing in much of the world, the authors argue that there are ways, good ways, to contribute and change the world for the better. Half the Sky is hopeful and determined, not discouraging. Most importantly, it provides strong motivation in its pages for everyday people in the West to act. I wish I could do this book justice with one paragraph. For more information, click here.

2. Peace Like a River by Leif Enger

This book illustrates how a life can be affected by prayer, faith, and love. I love this story for its portrayal of justice, perseverance, loss, and loyalty. I also loved the discussion on the nature of family. Beautifully written, beautiful message.









1. The Giver by Lois Lowry

Yes, the Giver holds the number one spot. For me, This book marked the first time I read not for enjoyment or for escape, but for growth. This book was the first to change me, and thus ignited my literary love affair. I have loved it ever since.








I have a similar list for movies, but I'll save that for another day. What are your favorite books of all time? If you tell me, I'll likely read them.

PS- Believe it or not, I actually have started the Brazil blog post (despite the fact that we are still under attack by the Asian spam.) For some reason, the old bloggity blog is taking about 30-40 minutes to upload each batch of 5 photos. This annoyance is magnified by the fact that we have literally thousands of pictures to sort through. Any ideas on how to speed up the process?

PPS- I have no idea what's going on with the spacing in this post. It's driving me insane.

PPPS- Happy eleven months, Hot Buns!