Advice: Ten books to add to your reading list

I love to read. And unlike most kids, I look forward to the time when I can just sit down and read a good book. I’ve been reading my whole life, so I’ve read a fair amount of literature. Here's my top ten favorite books.

1. The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
I know this isn’t one book, but it is my favorite collection of books I have ever read. After reading these books six times each, I have come to love the life lessons, bonds of friendship, magical adventures, and more, that Harry Potter has taken me through. I don’t know what kind of person I would have been if I didn’t read Harry Potter! J.K. Rowling has become a huge inspiration to me. Harry Potter has made me into the avid reader I am today! No matter how young or old you are, you can always read and love Harry Potter.



2. I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson
 I only read this book a year ago, but it instantly became one of my favorites. It combines stories of love and friendship, as well as stories of kids pursuing their dreams and learning to love themselves. With an interesting, modern take on a teen novel, ‘I’ll Give You the Sun’ is a must-read.


3. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
When I finished this book I immediately turned back to the first page and started reading it again. It was that amazing and beautiful. ‘Eleanor & Park’ is a romance, but it focuses more on the value of friendship and how to accept everyone for who they are. I am so happy that I picked this book up and started reading it, because I have gotten countless people hooked on it too!


4. Life of Pi by Yann Martel
I have only just read this book, but it has changed my view on the power of words! Called monotonous and boring by many, but amazing, life-changing, and captivating by me, ‘Life of Pi’ is a book that not everyone loves, but trust me, give it a try! This book plays with your mind and is written in the most beautiful way. It would be a dream come true if I had the ability to write as well as Yann Martel. If you are looking for a perfect book for any book lover, Life of Pi is the best choice.


5. Divergent by Veronica Roth
An action packed novel that is emotional and captivating, 'Divergent' is a book you won't be able to put down. This story is about breaking down the walls of society and accepting yourself for who you are. I haven't met anyone who hasn't fallen in love with 'Divergent'.


6. The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
This one of the only thrillers I have read, but it was still amazing. I refer to this book as my "beach book" because I bought it at a small bookstore along the beach, and then proceeded to read the whole book sitting on the beach. The cover and pages of my copy are worn from the beach and salty air, so I will always treasure this book. If you like thrillers, you should read this book!


7. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
'The Hate U Give' is a novel about social justice and equality. It is an astounding book to read if you are looking to get another look at the social problems of today's world. I recommend this book to all teens, as it will open your eyes to the world.


8. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
This adventure-fantasy-sci-fi novel is a must read for all teens. It combines fantasy with stories of love and friendship. As a reader, you really get to known all of the numerous characters and connect with each and every one of them. Ransom Riggs has really created a unique and interesting storyline that everyone will enjoy. Even my brother, who isn’t the biggest reader, loved these books! There are three of them, but I must say, the first book in this trilogy is by far the best.


9. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
The story of Malala is one of the most heart-wrenching but inspirational stories I have ever read. After reading this beautifully written book, I have come to learn the value of women’s rights and women’s educational rights. I loved hearing the fine details of Malala’s life story, from before she was shot, and how, after, she stood up for what she believed in and made a huge impact on the world. I have now come to love Malala Yousafzai and all that she stands for. If you want to read about a powerful woman who changed the world by herself, then read ‘I Am Malala’ to experience a life-changing tale.


10. The Sun is Also A Star by Nicola Yoon
‘The Sun is Also A Star’ is one of those books that I sat down and almost finished in one sitting. With an easy to understand, but still extremely compelling plot, this book was simply wonderful. Set in New York City, readers can learn about the struggles of immigrants in America and the struggles of kids whose parents don’t understand that Harvard and Med School isn’t the only option for their child. Many of my friends have read and loved this book.


Thank you for reading about my top ten favorite books. There are many, many more books that I have read and loved, but I just can’t fit them all in one blog post. I hope that by reading my list of favorites, you can find a new book that you will love.

Keep on reading.

By Olivia Sullivan, LS News reporter

The opinions of the stated author does not constitute an official position of the Lampeter-Strasburg School District or of the LS News editorial board.

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