We have all heard of this timeless question: “What books would you like to be stuck with on a deserted island?” The real answer would probably be How to Build a Raft or How to Construct a Shelter on an Island, but it’s much more fun to think about the possibility of having the rest of your life—literally—to read all of your favorite novels. Here are a few of mine:
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling:
Technically this is a series, but it’s a fantasy must-read for any book lover. The magic of the wizarding world can spark interest in all ages, and Harry’s adventures never get old.
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Stones From the River by Ursula Hegi:
The complex storyline of Stones From the River guarantees you’ll be reading it more than once. Every read-through brings more themes, character developments and symbols that you hadn’t caught before.
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1984 by George Orwell:
Any George Orwell book is sure to keep your mind active. All of the messages about the future are a lot to take in and make for a very interesting read. If you love dystopian novels, you have to add this one to your list.
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The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain:
Twain presents a lot to take in with this story of a young boy. Morals, race and class are all put into question as Huckleberry adventures in the South during the 1840s.
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To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee:
This classic makes for a good read at any time in your life. To Kill a Mockingbird may be one of the most honest, thought-provoking and inspiring books of all time.
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The Lord of the Rings Series by J.R.R. Tolkien:
You may have seen the movies, but why stop there? The Lord of the Rings novels are action-packed, and although long, filled with adventure. The tales of Frodo Baggins are a timeless and wonderful work of fiction.
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His Dark Materials Series by Philip Pullman:
Although The Golden Compass is the most well-known book of the series, reading the whole His Dark Materials series is a fantastic way to let your imagination run wild. The books are unique, interesting and alternate between dark truths and happiness that is found in the world we live in.
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In reality there are so many books out there to read, and if I was stuck on a deserted island, I’d want to have a whole library with me. Either way, this is a list of amazing books that everyone should have the opportunity to pick up.