What to read: the importance of books

Reading is becoming ever so popular, things like booktok and a sudden surge in reading is getting a resurgence in popularity. Reading has always been a part of culture, from pre-teens falling in love with The Hunger Games to the legacy that is Harry Potter. As you ponder about what book to start picking up, let me help you choose what to read.

If you’re into fun end-of-the-world comedies, let me introduce you to Hollow Kingdom. This humorous and endearing story follows a domesticated crow (S.T.) and, begrudgingly, his roommate Dennis, a dim-witted but loyal dog. When their owner Big Jim’s eyeball falls out and all hell breaks loose, they are forced to venture out into the zombie-infested Seattle, determined to find a cure. This book is a quick read only about a few hundred pages; but it’s jam-packed with hair-raising tension, amazing comedy, and an interesting perspective on what a zombie book is all about.

For something more classical and timeless, I would recommend Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde; a true staple in thriller novels. For anyone not aware, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde follow doctor and scientist Henry Jekyll as he comes up with the key to unlocking the truly evil side of humanity. Jekyll, a once kind and loving man, is periodically turned into Mr. Hyde, the embodiment of evil. This book is a great mystery and tension-building read as you get to see in real time, not only how the main characters unfold the truth about Jekyll, but also how Jekyll’s own mental state declines as Hyde grows more and more prominent.

Another great read is The Search for Wondla. While it is a YA novel this fantasy follows Eva Nine, a girl raised underground in a bunker watched over by her robot mother Muthr. But when her life is threatened she is forced to leave her sanctuary and venture into the strange and unknown world before her, driven by the mission to reunite with her Muthr. This sci-fi coming-of-age is a great read, not too intellectual but still engaging and captivating.

Reading for the masses is truly a gift we should not take for granted. Stimulate your brains and open your horizons to different ideas and perspectives. Never just settle for OK, always strive to better yourself.