Most of the time when we think about “reading”, texts and tweets seem like the only things with any appeal to them. Even during my time as an english major, it was amazing how many other people in my major complained about reading or admitted to only reading Sparknotes. When I think back to all of my time in school, it’s amazing how many times I did not read- textbooks, articles, books, etc. Now that I’m older and am not forced to read so often, I actually find myself reading a lot. Here are some books that I recommend actually giving a chance. They’re classics for a reason, people! Plus, there are movie adaptations for a lot of these!

1. Dracula

This may be because I’m currently on a pretty big monster kick, but this is probably my new favorite book. My attitude before reading it: “there’s no way this old book is going to even remotely scare me”, my attitude during/after reading it: *sleeps with every light on in house with garlic around bed and crucifix around neck* (just kidding…mostly).

2. To Kill a Mockingbird

I think this was the first book that I actually read all the way through for a class (with the exception of Elementary school classes). It’s a classic coming-of-age story, and it’s not even written in hard-to-read english! Also, bonus, the sequel just came out!

3. Romeo and Juliet

EVERYBODY should read SOME Shakespeare at SOME point in their life. This is probably the easiest play of his to read (we read it in middle school), and also arguably his most famous. There are so many spin offs and pop culture references that stem from this story, and reading it will open up a whole new world (I’m sorry if I just got the song stuck in your head) for you. Also, you can finally join the debate about whether or not it’s a good love story.

4. Tom Sawyer/Huck Finn

Read their stories! If you’re lucky enough to be able to read them at your school, get in on those classic tales. There’s a large controversy surrounding Mark Twain’s use of the “N word”, and while I am in no way saying that that’s something that should be allowed, I’m just asking that you look past that to take part in the adventure of these kids. Reading these books always brings out warm, fuzzy childhood memories for me.

5. The Odyssey

I have to read this book, no joke, at least once a year. A lot of other people have to read it multiple times as well. Just read it early, take notes, and get it over with. It’s not a bad story, but it can seem intimidating. You got this, though!

6. The House on Mango Street

This is probably the least popular book on the list, but it is also the newest. Written by author Sandra Cisneros, this story gives beautiful insight into what it’s like being a minority stuck in a low socioeconomic status while trying to grow up. It's a super quick read, but it has so much symbolism that makes it fun to really think about.