Navigating the vast expanse of available novels can be a daunting task, and choosing the right novel that captivates you can seem fruitless. To inspire your next literary adventure and add to your ever mounting books-to-read list, this curated selection of novels offered by your avid classmate readers ranges from thought provoking classics to contemporary gem finds and will undoubtedly unveil curiosity and hopefully broaden your horizon of perspectives, knowledge, and appreciation for literature.
Lizette Janice Trinidad
Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series by Rick Riordan
Genre: Fantasy
Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a fantasy book series, published in 2005, based on Greek Mythology. The main character, Percy Jackson, a troubled kid with ADHD and dyslexia, finds out he is a demigod. Over the course of his adventures, he has to fight monsters, complete deadly quests with his friends, Annabeth Chase and Grover Underwood, to defeat the main antagonist, Kronos. Kronos hopes to destroy Olympus, thereby destroying the world.
Evelyn Park
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Genre: Fantasy
Remarkably Bright Creatures written by Shelby Van Pelt is a book about an intelligent octopus and a sweet old lady who work together to achieve their goals, while also fostering an unconventional deep friendship. When I initially picked up this book, I was slightly critical, wondering “how can I relate to an octopus?” But this unique point of view was wonderfully delightful to read; I laughed, sympathized, and cried for Marcellus the octopus. How many authors are able to make you cry because of an octopus? Through her thoughtfully written characters, and intricate plot, Shelby Van Pelt delicately plays with the definition of compassion, and the true meaning of valuing other people (and remarkably bright creatures) around you!
Hana Salay
Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre: Psychological/Historical/Romance fiction
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is an riveting, high-octane novel that navigates life in Hollywood, delving into themes of sacrifice, calculation and hidden pasts.
In the introductory scenes of the book, Evelyn Hugo requests a seemingly insignificant, LA native turned New York reporter, Monique, to be an author of her biography when she passes. Monique, unable to establish herself in the apex of journalism of New York, is taken aback at the peculiar request. Hugo convinces her, hinting there is an unspoken rationale behind her need for Monique to craft this biography. As Monique delves into the interview, readers are immersed in a meticulously detailed and intense narrative of Hugo’s life in Hollywood. The book touches upon sensitive themes of sexual orientation and child/domestic abuse, so I would read with caution if those topics are personal to you. Unforeseen turn of events brim throughout the novel, but the conclusion offers a startling plot twist, so it’s worth it to read it through to the end.
Isha Vekaria
If He Had Been With Me by Laura Nowlin
Genre: Fiction/Romance
If He Had Been With Me by Laura Nowlin is an emotional, gut-wrenching romance novel that may leave you sobbing at the end.
Autumn and Finny have been best friends since birth and have done everything together. But throughout middle school, they began to fade apart, and their distance only grows after they step foot into high school. During the next four years, Autumn navigates heartbreak, joy, love, and grief.
One of the most unique things about the book is that from the very first page, you know exactly what will happen at the end. You get all 400 pages to grieve and hope that maybe, just maybe, you’re wrong. Even so, the ending is still shattering, leaving you wishing it had been different.
Sarah Oliveros
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Genre: Adventure Fiction
The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo is a philosophical story of a young shepherd boy on the hunt for treasure, only to discover that his treasure was within reach the entire time.
Little did I know that this book would change my way of thinking and living. The Alchemist follows Santiago the shepherd’s journey as he meets fascinating people along the way, each contributing to his progression in the hunt of treasure. This novel illustrates the power of gratitude and mindset, as it ends in a full-circle manner. Since sophomore year, I have read The Alchemist over and over again, revisiting the inspirational words of Paulo Coelho, and it continues to enlighten me every time. I think that no matter what kinds of books you tend to lean toward, everyone would enjoy The Alchemist.
The Scribe would love for you to share your recommendations. If you have book recommendations, please email the title and a 100-150 word summary and a few words about why you liked it to [email protected].