By There are few things in life as rewarding as reading a great book. A well-told story can transport you to another place and time, or teach you something new about the world. And while there are countless books to choose from, these nine should be at the top of your list.
Small Island by Andrea Levy
Set in London and Jamaica during and after World War II, Small Island tells the story of three people who are all caught up in the aftermath of the war. Levy captures the racism and xenophobia that many immigrants faced during this time period, as well as the friendships and relationships that developed between people from different cultures.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner is the story of Amir, a young boy from Afghanistan, and his best friend Hassan. The novel follows their lives from childhood through the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the fall of the Taliban regime. It’s a moving story of friendship, betrayal, and redemption that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye is the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenager who is kicked out of a prestigious boarding school and spends a few days wandering around New York City. The novel is set in the 1950s and deals with themes of teenage angst and alienation.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird is set in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the 1930s. The novel centers on Atticus Finch, a white lawyer who defends a black man accused of rape, and his children Scout and Jem. The book deals with themes of racism and injustice and is considered one of the most important works of American literature.
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible tells the story of the Price family, who move to the Belgian Congo in 1959 to be missionaries. However, they are quickly forced to confront the reality of life in a colony that is on the brink of independence. Kingsolver’s novel is a powerful story of family, faith, and colonialism.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
The first book in the Harry Potter series introduces us to the wizarding world and its young hero, Harry Potter. When Harry discovers that he is a wizard, he is sent to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where he makes friends and learns about his magical powers.
If you are a fan of Harry Potter take a look at the sorting hat quiz.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
The Color Purple is the story of Celie, a young black girl living in the American South during the early 1900s. The novel chronicles Celie’s journey from abuse and oppression to self-acceptance and liberation. Walker’s novel is a classic of American literature and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1983.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
The Diary of a Young Girl is Anne Frank’s account of her life while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The diary offers a unique and intimate look at the experience of living in hiding and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
There are many great books to choose from, but these nine should be at the top of your list. Each one offers a unique and powerful story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading. So what are you waiting for? Pick up one of these classics today and start reading!