As I write this article, I find that my bookshelf is once again full. But, if you’re like me, you can’t fight the temptation to keep buying more and more books despite the limited space you might have in your room/home. But, as I started going through my bookshelf to try and reorganize it and try to find some books I could donate, I came across some wonderful books I think every book lover needs to read.
1. “The Diviners” by Libba Bray
If you’re like me and you love books that take place in the 1920s, you’re going to love this series. Not only does it take place in New York, but it’s also a supernatural thriller that’s sure to keep you reading into the wee hours of the morning.
2. “Starcrossed” by Josephine Angelini
If you were a fan of “Percy Jackson," you’ll love this amazing mythological series following the young Helen Hamilton as she tries to discover who she really is. Plus, it takes place locally on Massachusetts' very own Nantucket Island. Be prepared to binge this series in a weekend. Yes, it’s that good.
3. “Vixen” by Jillian Larkin
Here’s another great 1920s series! It’s a little more mundane than the first one, but it’s still one hell of a ride. Switching from three of the main character’s perspectives and learning about their pasts, all of them will come together to create a tornado of secrets and lies.
4. “The Tea Rose” by Jennifer Donnelly
One of my favorite authors of all-time, Jennifer Donnelly is a master of historical fiction. And “The Tea Rose” series is certainly no exception. Spanning from the late 1800s to the end of World War I in England, Donnelly’s books follows Fiona Finnegan who’s bravery and determination will have you rooting for her and her family the whole way through.
5. “Slice of Cherry” by Dia Reeves
Looking for a really weird and scary novel? “Slice of Cherry” is sure to satisfy your craving. After all, the two main characters are the daughters of their town’s infamous murderer, the Bonesaw Killer. Need I say more?
6. “Kissing Doorknobs” by Terry Spencer Hesser
If you haven’t already read this book for your psychology class, you should definitely make a note of this one. Written by someone who suffers from OCD herself, Hesser creates a captivating character named Tara who struggles with the mental illness. An extremely powerful and accurate portrayal of a serious illness, “Kissing Doorknobs” should be a book everyone reads.
7. “The Book Thief” Markus Zusak
Switching between the perspective of young Liesel Meminger and Death itself, this powerful novel takes you through Liesel’s life in Nazi Germany as her family hides a Jewish man in their basement. A beautiful tale, Zusak’s book is one to remember.
8. “After” Amy Efaw
This is a much darker one. It will definitely make you wonder just how powerful our subconscious is and if we can really become a victim of its power.
9. “The White Tiger” by Aravind Adiga
Similar to Richard Wright’s “Native Son,” Adiga’s novel follows Balram as he struggles to make a living for himself in India. Critiquing the social classes of the country and its people, Adiga weaves a spellbinding tale about what it really takes to be on top of the world.
10. “The Reluctant Fundamentalist” Mohsin Hamid
Changez is a compelling and somewhat frightening narrator in this novel when telling a complete American stranger about his life as a Muslim American, specifically after 9/11. Though very short with an ending that leaves a lot to the imagination, Hamid’s novel is extremely thought-provoking that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it.
11. “Green Grass, Running Water” Thomas King
Another book that addresses many stereotypes, specifically about Native Americans, this novel weaves an elaborate tale about three people who struggle with their identities as not just people, but as Native Americans. Sprinkled with humor and magic, King’s novel comments on harmful tropes of Native Americans that still exist today.
12. “The Impossible Knife of Memory” by Laurie Halse Anderson
If you’ve read “Speak” this next Anderson novel will certainly delight. Following the strong-headed Hayley as she tries to take care of not only herself but her father, a veteran with crippling PTSD. Anderson delves deep into the relationship between Hayley and her father and creates a beautiful and painful story.
13. “The Catcher in the Rye” J.D. Salinger
This classic is one everyone needs to read at some point. Holden is our main character and witty narrator who travels through New York by himself for a few days after getting kicked out of another preppy school. But as we follow Holden, we discover all the things that have happened in his life to make him so cynical. A heartbreaking yet humorous read.