By Tessa Rabeau
In times like these, when we are constantly focused on our screens, we can forget the joys of reading an actual, hard-copy book! So, I have compiled a list of some of my favourite books to read when I am troubled or bored by the crazy world that we live in.
Less challenging, but more adventurous books.
1. ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘The Lord of The Rings’ series by J.R.R Tolkien:
Yes, it may seem cliché to have this on my list, but Tolkien’s LOTR series are a fantastic way to let your mind wander from the trials of reality. The novels focus on a quest undertaken by certain Hobbits (small people) who become infatuated with a ring that has wondrous powers. If you finish the books (or if you just skip straight to it) the movies are universally loved and are also high on my movie rank list.
Rate: 5/5
2. ‘Juliet’ by Anne Fortier:
I am sure that everyone knows the general jest of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Fortier’s 2010 novel is set in Modern-day Siena (in Italy). She alternates the perspectives of a women in the 1300’s, Giulietta, who was supposedly the inspiration for Shakespeare’s play. It then focuses on the modern-day Julie, who thinks she may have some ancestral ties to Giulietta. Worth a read!
Rate: 4.5/5
More Challenging reads:
1. ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ by Oscar Wilde:
I recently read this book and it fast became one of my favourites. Published in 1890, Wilde’s novel tells a story of a vain young man who sells his soul for eternal beauty and youth. Not only is the novel eerie and chilling, it leaves you with a new sense of self and some valuable moral lessons. I highly recommend this book.
Rate: 5/5
2. ‘Northanger Abbey’ by Jane Austen:
‘Northanger Abbey’ is one of the six of Austen’s novels that are widely read. However, I feel that ‘Northanger Abbey’ is the most underrated. The novel follows the journey of Catherine Morland who experiences her first love in a gothic abbey that holds many secrets. As the book was written in 1803, the language can at times be challenging, but if you persist this, you will be pleasantly surprised with the timeless story.
Rate: 4.5/5
