I am an avid reader, however I have a favorite that I compare all books to when I am considering their worthiness in rating on my precious GoodReads accounts. The standards this book holds on me are unmet as it is a story that has forever stuck by me and is a comfort reread.
In first place is my favorite book of all time, with the mastermind of Sally Rooney behind it, and the controversial use of no quotation marks, Normal People. This piece of literary art follows Marianne and Connell through their “on-again, off-again” relationship through high school, college, and post-graduation adult life. The story line reminds me of the Taylor Swift song, “Invisible String” as no matter the circumstances, the duo always finds their way back to one another. This is how I like to think the couple ends up after the ending of the novel, just because of their undeniable chemistry that left me emotionally attached upon finishing this book. I recommend this book to anyone who will listen as it is the perfect novel for college students and young adults as it shows the reality of finding oneself while also battling romantic attraction and feelings.
The novel has a Hulu television show adaption that is incredible with Daisy Edgar Jones as the amazing actress portraying Marianne in the series. The series has brought this heartfelt novel to life and is an incredible watch. I do, however, insist you read the book first and watch the series following the completion of the novel, as watching this storyline come to life was amazing to see.
This book is not only one I recommend to anyone who has an interest, but to anyone feeling stuck in their life or “situationship”, as it tells us hopeless romantics we are not alone and there are stories much like yours. To leave whoever is reading this with my favorite quote from the book, “Marianne, he said, I’m not a religious person but I do sometimes think God made you for me.”