Literature Recommendations

Spring Reading Recommendations:

“Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.”

Mastering the art of psychological fiction, Dostoyevsky embarks his readers on a journey through his most famous novel, “Crime and Punishment”. The psychological sophistication and complexity of Dostoyevsky’s characters and their personal development throughout the book, many times going south, keeps readers intrigued and eager to turn to the next page, in anticipation of the unpredictable events. Not only discussing intellectual pastimes but including the consequences of those pastimes, Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment is truly a remarkable read, which will make anyone contemplate morality and the concepts of good and evil.

In Richard Adams' "Watership Down," readers embark on an unforgettable journey alongside a group of courageous rabbits led by the fearless Hazel. As they traverse the perilous English countryside in search of a new home, they encounter dangers both natural and man-made, forging deep bonds of friendship and loyalty along the way. Adams weaves a rich tapestry of adventure, resilience, and the enduring power of community, as these rabbits confront their fears and navigate the complexities of survival. Through its vivid characters and timeless themes of courage and camaraderie, "Watership Down" captivates readers of all ages, leaving them inspired by the triumph of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

“Calm —indeed the calmest— reflection might be better than the most confused decisions”

Inspired by his relationship with his tyrannical father, and his long-distance relationship with his fiancée, Kafka has written perhaps one of the most influential and disturbingly brilliant books in the early 20’s century. The story explores the concepts of a person’s purpose in life, human existence, creation rather than assignment of meaning, and the influence of family on a person’s personality and persona. This story stirred the hearts of many since it was written in 1912.

If you yearn for a narrative laced with female rage, a profound exploration of the desire for revenge, and the uncharted depths one would plumb for satisfaction, then Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" is your literary refuge. This gripping tale offers iconic monologues that delve into the brutal facets of womanhood, thoughtfully interwoven into a narrative pulsating with thrilling psychological scenes on every page. The story culminates in an unforgettable ending, leaving you with a compelling urge to reevaluate the fine line between love and pain.

Elite. Selective. Brutal. Enter the dragon riders. A treacherously addictive fantasy written by Rebecca Yarros, laced with dragons and destruction, follows the tale of a young girl thrown into a college of those who want to kill her, if a dragon doesn’t first. To graduate from this ruthlessly competitive arena of death, she will need to navigate enemies, friends, and lovers, because everyone has an agenda. A war is coming, and a storm is brewing. Once you enter the “Fourth Wing", there are only two ways out. Fly, or die.

Oscar Wilde's singular novel, "The Picture of Dorian Gray," stands as a scandalous masterpiece of the 19th century, leaving an indelible mark on the world of literature. Wilde captivates his readers with his formidable writing techniques, weaving a tapestry of vivid imagery, brilliant diction, and profound symbolism. Each character, is a meticulously crafted work of art in their own right. The novel delves into a multitude of sophisticated themes, instantly elevating the reader's comprehension of aestheticism and the enigmatic psychology of beauty. It's crucial for readers to approach this book with an awareness of its controversial nature and a foundational understanding of the thought-provoking subjects that Wilde explores within its pages.

“Someone who thinks death is the scariest thing doesn't know a thing about life.”

"The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd is a poignant and uplifting tale set in 1960s South Carolina, where fourteen-year-old Lily Owens flees her troubled home with her caregiver and friend, Rosaleen. Their journey leads them to the home of the Boatwright sisters, three African American beekeepers who take them in. As Lily uncovers the mysteries of her past and discovers the mesmerizing world of bees, she finds solace, sisterhood, and ultimately, redemption. Through Kidd's lyrical prose and heartfelt storytelling, "The Secret Life of Bees" explores themes of love, loss, and the healing power of female bonds, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the final page.

In Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Notes from Underground," we journey into the complex psyche of a deeply embittered narrator in the tumultuous city of St. Petersburg. Dostoevsky's expert storytelling delves into profound themes, including the pervasive sense of alienation, the intricacies of free will, and the enigmatic allure of human suffering. This classic work's enduring appeal lies in its unrelenting exploration of the human condition. It provides a compelling mirror into the introspective struggles of the individual and challenges prevailing rationalism and utopianism, inviting readers to embrace the enigmatic complexities of humanity.

“I am terrified by this dark thing that sleeps in me.”

Albert Camus' "The Stranger" centers on the character Meursault, a French Algerian whose response to life's events is characterized by an unsettling indifference, embodying key existential themes of alienation and the inherent meaninglessness of existence. This novel boldly challenges the norms and conventions of society while shining a spotlight on the inherent absurdity of life itself. It leaves readers with a lasting contemplation of the intricate complexities of human existence that lingers long after they've turned the final page.

Albert Camus' "The Plague" delves into the human condition within the context of an epidemic in the fictional Algerian town of Oran. Through the experiences of Dr. Rieux and a diverse cast of characters, the novel grapples with themes of isolation, the absurdity of life, and moral quandaries that arise during a period of quarantine. In doing so, it offers profound reflections on the resilience and compassion of humanity in the face of adversity.

"1984" by George Orwell stands as a dystopian masterpiece, illustrating a totalitarian society under the rule of the Party and its enigmatic leader. The narrative unravels the story of one individual's resistance to the oppressive regime, delving into themes of censorship, manipulation of truth, and the erosion of personal identity. Orwell's cautionary tale regarding the abuse of power and control over information remains acutely pertinent, rendering "1984" a timeless reflection on the defense of personal freedoms within a totalitarian backdrop.

An impressively profound exploration of varied and complex human experience through the shifting of many different characters in the book “To the Lighthouse”. The many characters are created so that the reader is able to understand and immerse themself in the inner monologues of several characters and their perspectives, which changes the narrative as a whole. Virginia Woolf utilizes her talents in this beautiful novel by capturing streams of consciousness in readers’ minds, allowing them to think of nothing but the tale unraveling before their eyes.

"Mrs. Dalloway" by Virginia Woolf offers a sophisticated exploration of the character's consciousness, with a particular focus on the enigmatic Mrs. Dalloway. The novel delves deep into the concepts of privacy, loneliness, and communication, immersing readers in a single day in her life. Within this narrative, we witness the intricacies of her inner thoughts, her personal struggles, and her external interactions with others. The novel underscores the idea that past events, even long after they have occurred, continue to shape our daily existence. "Mrs. Dalloway" imparts numerous valuable lessons that resonate with many readers, serving as Virginia Woolf's debut novel and securing her place in the hall of great writers.

In the gripping tale of "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd," we delve into the life of a man who possessed dangerous knowledge. Roger Ackroyd knew that his lover was ensnared in a web of blackmail, and he was privy to the unsettling truth that she had poisoned her first husband. The story takes an ominous turn when Mrs. Ferras is discovered dead, apparently by her own hand. And in the wake of her tragic demise, Roger Ackroyd is found lifeless, a fatal stab wound to his neck casting a sinister shadow over the scene. Will you dare to embark on the journey to unveil the dark and enthralling secrets surrounding Mrs. Ferras and her late husband? Can you muster the courage to unearth the identity of the murderer of Roger Ackroyd?

“The truth, however ugly in itself, is always curious and beautiful to seekers after it.”

“This Woven Kingdom” unravels in a Persian Mythology laced setting, following a long-lost princess who’s surviving as a disposable servant and a crown prince who has heard torturous prophecies foretelling the death of his father. The two heirs passionately clash in a forbidden romance, dances with daggers, and moonlit kisses, oblivious that one will uproot the other's kingdom - and the world. Tahereh Mafi has proven once again capable of writing an intriguing, rich, and now poetic universe of foreign fantasy and invisible threads.

“real love is very quiet, very still. It's boring if seen from the perspective of high drama. Love is deep and calm - and constant.”

The “Silent Patient”, by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller at its finest. Themes of adolescent trauma and how it affects you as you grow, blind, and sacrificing love are brought to light in this novel of unidentifiable suspense Every character introduced is inexplicably interconnected, and narratives of different paths artfully collide in ruinous revenge and silent twists. This novel will make you reconsider means of justification, deception, childhood, and actions taken down varying paths, and the ending will have you shaken to your core.

"The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a timeless classic that follows the transformative journey of Mary Lennox, a young girl who, after the death of her parents, is sent to live with her uncle in his vast and mysterious estate. Lonely and neglected, Mary discovers a hidden, neglected garden on the estate grounds, unlocking its secrets with the help of a robin and her newfound friend, Dickon. As Mary tends to the garden, she blossoms alongside it, uncovering the healing power of nature and the magic of friendship. With themes of growth, renewal, and the resilience of the human spirit, "The Secret Garden" continues to enchant readers of all ages, reminding us of the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places.

"Enchanting April" by H.L. Stoddard is a delightful tale set in the idyllic countryside of England during the springtime. As April Whittier inherits her grandmother's charming cottage, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and romance amidst the blooming gardens and picturesque landscapes. Alongside her eclectic group of newfound friends, April uncovers the magic of new beginnings, love, and the transformative power of embracing life's unexpected adventures. With its whimsical charm and heartwarming storyline, "Enchanting April" is a captivating read that will leave readers longing for their own enchanting escape into the beauty of the English countryside.

Syliva Plath floods readers who open her journals with a stream of consciousness guaranteed to drown thoughts of anything but the unfolding emotions portrayed in vivid, real-life entries of this legendary writer who faced tragedy headfirst. Stick your neck out and prepare to question the validity of ignorance towards feelings that dug deeper than you believed, probing around your mind and welling your eyes. Pierce the misogyny that permeates the wellbeing of majority women, meet personal relationships emerging with a new identity, and struggles with the fragility of mental health, a frequent and necessary discussion in these precious pages.

In the “Collected Poems of Sylvia Plath,” concepts of suffering, burnout, brilliancy, breakdowns, and gloriousness are combined by the unforgettable imprint of Sylvia Plath's resilience in discussions of mental struggles and how they affect one physically, as well as through past and present relationships. Including this, “The Collected Poems” provide deeply valuable insights into the boundaries of love, and understanding oneself to the best of their ability through thoughtfully strung poetry. Read this master of written craft, master of confessional poetry, without the conventions and restraints regarding ‘controversial’ topics, as you will witness a writer, an artist, a poet, broken free through her pen.

Our blurbs/descriptions of books do not go into detail, but if the essence of a book captured your attention and interest, we recommend reading/watching more about it on Goodreads, BookTok, YouTube, or even emailing/DMing us more questions.

What do you do when friends begin to suit the term enemy more? What do you do when banter morphs into murder? In this Shakespearean novel, M.L. Rio paints a brutal picture of friendship, sacrifice, guilt, and mystery. With the genius incorporation of Shakespeare and his work, ambiguous endings, and characters built masterfully, a tale of emotions unexplored and heartfelt heartbreak unfolds. Discover the fine line between morals and malice, and a scene of thespians and theater, acting till a point of picturesque destruction. 

“You can justify anything if you do it poetically enough.”

“I have hated words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right.”

 A retelling of one of humanity's most devastating tragedies, from the perspective of a young, German girl. Resilient in the narrative of the Holocaust, its internal struggles and external conflicts, a childhood lens of heartbreak and ruin tugs on the heartstrings of readers, who face adolescence love, and unbreakable bonds with parents. Storytelling is used to bring light to inevitable death, the actions of human kindness in the midst of cruelty, and themes of immovable friends, who not even disaster can tear apart. Markus Zusak has masterfully crafted a renowned and important historical fiction, “The Book Thief”, a piece of written art that will surely touch the hearts of many for centuries.

“To the stars who listen and the dreams that are answered”

“I took a deep breath and listened to the old brag of my heart. I am, I am, I am.”

“It's only because of their stupidity that they're able to be so sure of themselves.”

“The Trial”, a philosophically strenuous literary piece by Franz Kafka has impacted the creation of a term applied to certain topics which is called “Kafkaesque”. The term Kafkaesque bears the idea of an unnecessarily difficult situation or theme. Combining situational irony and Kafkaesque themes, the trial is an exploration of Josef K’s arrest which later leads him to immerse into the labyrinthine world of bureaucratic traps and the legal system.

Plagued by profound trauma, Little Dog writes a letter to his illiterate mother, aiming to liberate himself from inner demons and the childhood trauma that has molded his unwanted personality. These scars have cast a long shadow over not just his own life but his family members as well, as the novel delves into the complexities of familial ties that resonate with many in the modern world. Amidst his engulfing depression, Little Dog manages to unearth love and beauty within himself and his family, rekindling forgotten memories of joy.