On a cold winters night, I can't think of anything better than snuggling up with a blanket, a warm drink, and a good book. I know, I know, for many the thought of picking up a book after finals week sounds like torture, but I'm here to tell you that nothing helps you escape like a gripping novel.
We all do it, we all have something we use to escape from the relentless monotony of everyday life. Whether it be social media, video games, binge watching TV sitcoms, partying, or reading, we all have our methods. Our little portals to another world much more exciting than our own.
This article is for those who daydream of curling up with a good book or are constantly on the hunt for fresh content to read. This for those who can't seem to get out of their reading slump or those who just want to give reading for pleasure a shot. This is for anyone who is just looking for a good book to read this holiday season.
1. "It's Kind of A Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini
This one is for you, John Green fans! Realistic and witty, this novel follows 15 year old Craig Gilner, who after a suicide attempt, finds himself admitted into the adult psychiatric unit of a Brooklyn hospital. A light-hearted story cleverly woven with several hard-hitting truths, "It's Kind of A Funny Story" will leave you not only with stitches in your side, but tears in your eyes.
2. "I Am The Messenger" by Markus Zusak
Can I just say that I love Markus Zusak? "The Book Thief" is another one of his books that is absolutely phenomenal, but the reason I chose this one is simply because it's more fun to read. The plot follows lazy Ed Kennedy who, following instructions sent to him in the mail, learns three life lessons from three different people. Ring any jingle bells? Zusak manages to balance comedy and suspense perfectly, making this novel not only riveting, but also funny as hell. An excellent choice for those who enjoy a little bit of dark humor.
3. "Nos4a2" by Joe Hill
Where are my horror fans at? If you're a Stephen King fan (but honestly, who isn't a Stephen King fan), you are going to love this. Joe Hill is my favorite author, so obviously, I had to include him in this list. "Nos4a2" is a horror novel about a creepy old man in a creepy old car who kidnaps children and takes them to a creepy old amusement park called Christmas Town. Like, come on, what more could you want? 10/10, highly recommend.
4. "The Art of Racing In The Rain" by Garth Stein
Want to ball your eyes out? Look no further. You'll be hugging your pet and sobbing for hours once you finish this one. Guaranteed. You're going to love it, I promise. Nothing makes you appreciate the little things in life like a book about a dog. And during the holiday season, I think we all need a good reminder that some things are more important than gifts and decorations.
5. "The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis
No explanation needed, "The Chronicles of Narnia" is just always a good idea. C.S. Lewis will never fail to take you on a wild adventure.
6. "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys
This is just one of those books that everyone needs to read at some point in their lives. Sepetys tells the forgotten tale of the MV Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship that sunk during World War II and took 9,400 people with it. It's a heavy story, I will admit, but again, there's nothing like a tragedy to make you appreciate everything you have.
7. "What If?" by Randall Munroe
This one's for you, science friends. Just because school is out doesn't mean the learning has to stop. If I could have Randall Munroe teach everyone one of my classes, I'd do it. Both funny and interesting, "What If...?" is definitely worth picking up, whether you like science or not. There's even little pictures!
8. "The Tragedy Paper" by Elizabeth LaBan
Teenage angst, unlikely romance, and a dark secret, what more could you want from a young adult novel? This is just a solid book, well written, exciting, emotional. Everything you could want in a novel. "The Tragedy Paper" is the sort of book everyone could find meaning from and everyone can relate to. It's a fresh take on the usual "outcast teen finds redemption" story.
9. "The Shining" by Stephen King
Much like C.S. Lewis, Stephen King is always a good idea. "The Shining" just so happens to take place in the winter, so I picked it.
10. "The Hangman's Daughter" by Oliver Pötzsch
This gripping historical fiction will not only take you back in time but, will also take you on a thrilling ride. The town's Hangman, his daughter, and a young doctor race against time to prove the innocence of woman convicted of witchcraft. Romantic, exciting, and surprising, "The Hangman's Daughter" will give you everything you need this holiday season.
