If the next four years of Trump’s presidency are going to require some reading therapy for you, here are some suggestion of books to read or reread to get you through it.
1984 by George Orwell
The most popular book being read during Trump’s presidency so far has been Orwell’s famous dystopian novel. It centers around a future society controlled by intense oppression, dictatorship and censorship. Everyone should read or reread this novel and really think about how its themes pertain to our political climate.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Set during World War II in Nazi Germany, The Book Thief follows the life of Liesel as she experiences the torn world around her and develops a fascinating relationship with books. It is a powerful novel that explores the immense power of words and the impact that girls can have in hopeless situations. The time period the novel is set in combined with the relevant themes, make it a top choice of books to read during the upcoming months.
Yertle the Turtle by Dr. Seuss
Why should any grown adult read a children’s book during this presidency? Dr. Seuss’ tale of Yertle using his subjects to be higher than anyone in the kingdom is a representation of Adolf Hitler and his rise to power. The parallels between the book and current political climate are difficult to ignore, making it a pick for anyone’s reading list.
The ending about Yertle becoming King of the Mud isn’t too bad, either.
Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
This series is centered around the fight of good versus evil and is full of empowering messages that will make anyone feel like they can stand up to the Dark Lord. Trump or Voldemort? Either one. Harry Potter is a modern classic that is sure to add a little magic back into the lives of those feeling weak and hopefully right now
Also suggested: J.K. Rowling’s twitter, where she actively tweets about politics. The woman is a goldmine of sass and spunk.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
The dystopian novel centers around a futuristic dictatorship in which women are stripped of their rights. The central character is a member of the class of women called “handmaid;” they are kept for reproductive purposes and are forced to get pregnant against their will. It is a haunting story whose message on women and the right they have to their own bodies is eerily relevant in modern America.
The Diary of Anne Frank
