1. The Hobbit
Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
What it's about: A homebody hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, finds himself whisked away on an extraordinary adventure (an "unexpected journey" of sorts), alongside 13 dwarves and a wizard, Gandalf. Elves, dragons, trolls, treasure, and of course lots of adventure are all included.Why you should read it: Because reading is good for the soul (duh). Also, with the final installment of The Hobbit movie series coming out in December, what better time is there to get caught up with the plot line and review what's already taken place before the film hits theaters? Answer: There is no better time. And regardless of the movie franchise, this book is
just great. Mr. Tolkien is pure genius.
2. Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.
Author: Sam Wasson
What it's about: An in-depth look at the classic film "Breakfast at Tiffany's", focusing on the contradictory themes it created. Whereas the movie, and it's star Audrey Hepburn, were more polished and refined, the original tale of Holly Golightly as written by Truman Capote was much less so. This book offers a look at the revolutionary changes and movements in the roles of women not just in the film industry, but in society as a whole, that came about during the "Breakfast at Tiffany's" era.Why you should read it: With the kinds of roles women are taking on these days in films and on television it's difficult to imagine a time when those roles didn't exist, or at the least seen as socially unacceptable. Fifth Avenue details that specific time, and the most influential people of it. The people and scenarios described in Wasson's book helped pave the way for the modern age of women, which is pretty cool if you ask me. Yay for women!
3. Les Miserables (Yes, I understand there's supposed to be an accent over the "e" but I am technologically challenged and couldn't figure out how to acquire it-you get the point, though.)
Author: Victor Hugo
What it's about: Gosh, what isn't this about? Let's see, there's a prisoner-turned-righteous-mayor, a vengeful officer, a desperate mother who sells her own teeth, the cutest couple of the 19th century, a friend-zoned brunette, the grossest couple of the 19th century, and an entire army of rebellious French men (as well as a few women), along with many others. But in the midst of all that, are the underlying themes of perseverence, love, faith, and hope (I'm seriously tearing up as I'm writing-this book just makes me feel some kind of way).
Why you should read it: As with The Hobbit, there has been a lot more attention on Les Miserables since the musical/movie premiered in 2012. And for many years prior to that Victor Hugo's famous novel had been performed on stages all across the world. But while the story told on stage and on the big screen is beautiful in itself, there is honestly so much more depth and back-story to be discovered. The intricacies Hugo developed between the characters and the plot line are truly amazing. Reading Les Mis really establishes an entirely new view of the story as it's generally perceived. And a tip: if you have the time, go for the unabridged version so you can get a much better impression of the vastness of Hugo's talent.
4. The Mortal Instruments Series (specifically City of Bones, City of Ashes, and City of Glass)
Author: Cassandra Clare
What it's about: Set in modern-day New York, The Mortal Instruments book series follows Clary Fray, a teenage girl who finds out through various mysterious encounters that she is a Shadowhunter, or someone who fights off demons trying to destroy Earth. Shadowhunters are a different race of humans, as they are part angel. The series details the different adventures and challenges Clary faces along with her best friend Simon, and other Shadowhunters by the names of Jace, Alec, and Isabelle. Warlocks, vampires, fairies, werewolves-they all exist in Cassandra Clare's world.
Why you should read it: While I love books, it is very rare that I find one, let alone a whole series like this, that I am always willing to re-read. These books are just almost too much fun to read. The characters are bright, funny, and imaginative, and the story line keeps you on the edge of your seat. There are actually 6 books in TMI series (the 6th and final one just being released in May), but there is also a prequel series called The Infernal Devices that I highly recommend reading after finishing the 3rd TMI book. I'll most likely include those books in the Winter list, and while it's not necessary that you read the two series in any order, it certainly gives the reader the full effect of the range and complexity of the Shadowhunter world. 5. The Fog
Author: Rob MacGregor and Bruce Gernon
What it's about: With a firsthand experience provided by Gernon, a new theory of the Bermuda Triangle is discussed, as well as an overview of the other existing theories that aim to explain the mysterious occurrences caused by the Triangle.
Why you should read it: The theories reviewed in The Fog are incredibly interesting, mostly because some of them even seem to make some sense. The various stories of disappearances and other strange happenings pull you in, and even get you to start thinking of your own theories. Also, with Halloween just around the corner, a spooky book seems to be in order. You're welcome.