I absolutely adore reading, which is not very surprising, considering the fact that I am an English major. Out of all the books I’ve read, these three have had a huge impact on my life. They’re engaging, entertaining and perfect for a chilly night.
- “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr
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Written from the point of view of two young pre-teens during World War II, this novel tugs on a reader’s heartstrings. It follows the activities of a Parisian girl named Marie-Laure, who is blind and employs creative methods of getting around with the help of her father. Many miles away, Werner, a skilled German repairman, reluctantly assists the Nazis with their technology. As their paths cross, the fate of a precious gem, as well as the lives of many people, are greatly affected by the decisions these two individuals make. This book is most definitely a page-turner.
- “Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard
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A novel set in a futuristic universe, “Red Queen” is the first of a trilogy by Victoria Aveyard. In a world where people are divided by the color of their blood, Mare Barrow is a low red, born into a large family living in a run-down village. Reds are ruled by the elite, who are gifted with powerful supernatural abilities, along with silver blood. The reds are forced to serve and skulk in the shadows, while the silvers bask in their glory. A growing rebellion, an odd mutation and a vicious competition for a prince’s crown are merely small events in this complicated work. Accompanied by a major plot-twist, this book is a must read.
- “Small Great Things” by Jodi Picoult
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This may be a more difficult read for some, but it tells some ugly truths about white supremacy in America. It tells the tale of Ruth Jefferson, an accomplished and experienced delivery nurse, who is prohibited from touching the baby of a white supremacist, simply because of her race. When the newborn passes away under her watch, Ruth is immediately blamed. Forced to go through a trial, Picoult’s book exposes the faults in the justice system, as well as racism and bigotry. Inspired and basedoninterviews with former white supremacists, Picoult eloquently spins this story to open people’s eyes.