1. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
Esther Greenwood is one of the most raw and authentic characters in literature. I finished The Bell Jar in one day. I could not put it down.
2. Hiding in the Light by Rifqa Bary
Hiding in the Light is about a young muslim who finds christianity. It talks about the plight of her childhood and how she found hope in the darkest days of her life. It is deeply moving and heartbreaking.
3. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
I grew up with The Lord of the Rings but unfortunately did not read it until later in life. It is a tale of one hobbits quest to bring peace back to Middle-earth. It is a long read but immensely enjoyable. Any fans of fantasy will love this story.
4. Sick in the Head by Judd Apatow
Sick in the Head is a compilation of interviews from various comedians. It is entertaining and shockingly insightful. Whether you are a fan of comedy or simply in need of an easy read this is that book.
5. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Like most people, I read this book in high school. Despite it being immediately unappealing because it was assigned reading, it has stuck with me. It is a story about racism and prejudice and one man and his families willingness to fight for what is right rather than what is popular.