I am a firm believer that there is at least one book that can open a door for those who dislike reading. I've had people tell me they don't like reading due to a number of reasons: they can't focus, they feel they read too slowly, they can't get into the story, they were forced to read books they hated in school... the list goes on. I find that if someone didn't grow up reading, or didn't gain confidence in reading, they have a more difficult time getting into books when they're older. I encourage you to give reading more of a try now that you're older--you may find that you are pleasantly surprised! Not every book is for everyone, so it's important to try a variety. In this post you will find an eclectic mix of books from all kinds of genres to look into.
1. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Who is it for? Anyone who loves animals, historical fiction, romance, or is interested in the Great Depression era
What is it about? Jacob Jankowski is a brilliant man, nearly finished with veterinary school, when he finds out his parents have been killed in a car accident, leaving him completely alone. He decides to hop on a train and run away, only to find he is aboard a circus train. When the circus hears of his education, he becomes a veterinarian for the traveling circus. On the way, he meets a variety of memorable performers that influence him in ways he never expected.
2. Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Who is it for? Angsty teenagers, anyone looking to revive their inner angsty teenager, people who like a lot of swearing, or those who want a book that's easy to follow
What is it about? Holden Caulfield is a teenager who got expelled from his prep school. In general, he's a huge trouble maker and is afraid of the idea of growing up. This book follows his life and shares his thoughts about society, the people around him, and his future. The most compelling part of this book is Holden's "voice," as it is very cynical. It's something a lot of people like about the book, because he is so brutally blunt and honest.
3. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordian
Who is it for? Anyone who couldn't get into Harry Potter, lovers of greek mythology and quick reads, those who love series, kids looking for something new, adults looking for something fun
What is it about? Percy Jackson is your typical pre-teen struggling with school, friends, the usual. He has a particularly hard time dealing with his dyslexia, and thinks he's doomed when it comes to school. One day, everything makes a whole lot more sense when he finds out he is the son of a Greek god and a human woman: a demi god. Because of his newfound status, he is elected to find a missing weapon, which has to be in the right hands. Along the way he has two friends who join him: Annabeth and Grover. Action packed and quickly paced, it is an easy read with lots of fun along the way.
4. Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
Who is it for? Parents, children, those looking to know more about children with disabilities, and those who want their heart to be warmed.
What is it about? A girl named Melody, who is not like most people. She cannot walk or talk, but she has a photographic memory; she can remember every detail of everything she has ever experienced. She is smarter than most of the adults who try to diagnose her and smarter than her classmates in her integrated classroom, the very same classmates who dismiss her as mentally challenged, because she cannot tell them otherwise. But Melody refuses to be defined by cerebral palsy. And she's determined to let everyone know it somehow.
5. What We Talk About When We Talk About Love by Raymond Carver
Who is it for? Those who like gripping, real characters and lots of dialogue, enjoy reading about life's vices, and enjoy reading short stories.
What is it about? This book is a collection of short stories. They contain more dialogue and characters than setting or plot. Each story reads as if it is a conversation you are having with someone at a bar or restaurant. With concise words and visceral characters, Carver creates moods and settings that you wouldn't have otherwise imagined in such a short story.
6. Griffin & Sabine by Nick Bantock
Who is it for? People who loved picture books as children, artists, teenagers, readers who have a hard time getting into novels, and anyone appreciative of art.
What is it about? The first book in a trilogy, Griffin and Sabine follows the story of Griffin, a lone artist in London, who gets a mysterious postcard from a woman named Sabine. Sabine lives on a tropical island thousands of miles away. Somehow, Sabine knows exactly what Griffin is painting when he has never released the artwork. Their story is told entirely through ornately decorated postcards and letters--a picture book for adults. Charming and mysterious, this book is perfect for those who want an intriguing story, but something light at the same time.
The most important thing with reading is to never give up. If one book doesn't work out, that doesn't mean they'll all have the same fate. Taking your time and discovering books you enjoy is one of the best parts of reading. Hopefully these tips and book recommendations inspired you to read a little more. If not, at least you read through this post!
