Books are incredible things. They're entire worlds on paper that can move people beyond anything else. Reading is an escape, it's a means to understanding. These thrilling romances, controversial allegories, and burgeoning tales of self discovery were some of the most influential in my life. Here are some of the best novels that are a must read before you enter the adult world:

1. "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" - Douglas Adams

The quintessential science fiction epic, "Hitchhikers Guide" follows the last human, Arthur Dent, on his comical journey of self discovery among the stars. The next time someone asks you what the meaning of life is, you can say "42" and actually understand the reference.

2. "Animal Farm" - George Orwell

A satirical reflection on Stalin's rule, "Animal Farm" follows life on a farm and the interactions between its inhabitants. Power-hungry pigs end up losing themselves in their quest for control, and although it sounds silly, they teach important lessons about leadership and humility.

3. "To Kill a Mockingbird" - Harper Lee

Although this usually elicits groans from high school students, it is without a doubt one of the most important books ever written. Scout, a young girl, finds her world flipped around in a dramatic tale of racial tension and human conscience. The lessons from this book are scarily applicable to our world, making it a must read.

4. "The Jungle" - Upton Sinclair

A dark exposé on the horrors of the meatpacking industry, "The Jungle" is a must read for anyone interested in social justice. Although written in 1906, some of the cruel truths are still a reality for people today. Sinclair is brutally honest and his sickening descriptions of poverty and worker exploitation will move anyone to fix the situation.

5."Great Expectations" - Charles Dickens

A coming-of-age novel from the nineteenth century, "Great Expectations" follows Pip, a young boy with big dreams. He navigates the challenges of poverty, revenge, and first love in a novel that is timelessly relatable.

6. "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" - Stephen Chbosky

A more recent coming-of-age novel, this book tackles the ups and downs of adolescence. Main character Charlie relates his tussles with sexuality, drug use, and peer pressure in a series of letters. Sometimes funny, sometimes tearjerking, this book, although controversial, is a beautiful rendering of teenage life.

7. "The Three Musketeers" - Alexandre Dumas

My all time favorite classic, this book is a swashbuckling adventure full of twisted romance and fierce friendships. Political turmoil, thrilling action, and one literature's best femme fatales make "The Three Musketeers" an unforgettable journey that will keep you hooked.

8. "Charlotte's Web" - E.B. White

A fourth grade story-time classic, "Charlotte's Web" is an extraordinary tale of unlikely friends and unwavering loyalty. Although a children's book, it's a heartwarming and incredibly well written read on the simplicity and brevity of life.

9. "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" - Rebecca Skloot

The only non fiction book on this list, this tells the story of Henrietta Lacks and her tumor cells, which were unknowingly used for research and resulted in millions of dollars in profit. Her family still lives in poverty. A look into the dark side of medical research, this book is one to read to keep on par with the world's ongoings.

10. The Harry Potter series - J.K. Rowling

This list would be incomplete without the Harry Potter series. Smart, moving, and ageless, these books shaped millions of lives. If not for the brilliant intricacies of the plot and beautiful character growth, reading these is vital to understanding one of the most influential forces behind our generation.