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Summer Reading Guide 2016
Upper School
nce 1922
Where will books
take you this summer?
Kent Denver School | 4000 E. Quincy Ave., Englewood, CO 80113
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Table of Contents
Summer Reading at Kent Denver
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Upper School Reading Program Statement
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Upper School Recommendations
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The Reader’s Bill of Rights
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Summer Reading at Kent Denver School
“It is what you read when you don’t have to that determines what you will be
when you can’t help it.” Oscar Wilde
School-Wide Approach
During the school year, students and adults report that they are so busy with school
and work that they have very little time to read for pleasure. Sure, students read,
but often only what they are assigned, what has been chosen for them. An assigned
reading system inadvertently implies that students should only read when it is
required. In various discussions the Kent Denver faculty has confirmed—virtually
in one voice—that summer should be a time for all of us to recharge without the
pressures of homework and school, and to rediscover reading for pleasure. Choice
of texts forms the foundation of the summer shift away from “what do I have to
read?” to “what do I want to read?” The research on the efficacy of summer reading overwhelmingly supports that students get more from summer reading when
they choose their own texts. Choice allows students to pick books at reading levels
appropriate to their own levels and to choose topics and genres about which they
truly care. The summer reading program at Kent Denver, in varying degrees from
Middle School to Upper School, embraces this fundamental idea of discovering
the joy of reading through choice.
The summer reading program also embraces our core values. The obvious core
value is that of personal growth. With each book read, our lives are enriched, and
if the book so moves us, we live in the company of those characters. But there is
also the acknowledgement that we are our own community of readers who enjoy
sharing our ideas and interests with each other. Reading as a community makes us
all better as individuals.
This booklet is a wonderful compilation of recommendations from Kent Denver
students, faculty and staff. We invite all members of our community to read for
pleasure this summer, and we hope that these reviews will assist you as you select
your readings.
Thank you students, faculty and staff who took time to submit recommendations—this publication would not be possible without your contributions.
Have a wonderful summer filled with great reads, hammocks and warm breezes.
Neil Batt, English Faculty
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The Upper School Program:
The Freedom and Pleasure of Choice
Everyone is encouraged to read at least THREE texts of his or her choice, and
the faculty acknowledges an expansive view of what constitutes a text. Books,
of course, are texts but consider also newspapers, magazines and blogs. Read
anything, as long as you care about it, you enjoy it and it makes you think.
Guidance is readily available by reviewing this booklet. When you come
back from the summer, the faculty hope you will be rested and recharged. Be
prepared to share in advisory and in your classes, your own reading experiences
and recommendations. Also, we hope as you share your reading in advisory
in the fall that you will consider contributing to next year’s Kent Denver 2017
Recommendations.
A note to students and parents...
Students and faculty have submitted the following Kent Denver
recommendations; these titles are suggested as a way of offering choice for
students. The titles offer a wide variety of reading interests, levels and content.
Some inclusions have been edited for the purpose of clarity and space; however,
we have tried to honor the student’s writing
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Recommedations from our Upper School
Boys Among Men:
HowthePreptoProGenerationRedefinedtheNBA
and Sparked a Basketball Revolution
As a basketball junkie, I found this book to be a great read on the decision-making
and challenges that incredibly talented teenagers faced in joining and adjusting to
the NBA. The book itself is easy to read, flowing from anecdote to anecdote while
adeptly balancing light topics (how to order room service) and serious ones (high
school coaches wanting a cut of a player’s first professional contract).
Lee Barrow, Faculty
Abrams, Jonathan
Adams, Richard
Watership Down
Enjoyed by adults and kids alike since 1972, this classic epic follows a band of
loveable heroes on their quest to find a safe new home in a world full of lethal
dangers. Don’t get turned off by the fact that all the main characters happen to
be rabbits. This Odyssey-like adventure is full of compelling characters and
challenges.
Jon Fortmiller, Faculty
Ahdieh, Renée
The Wrath and the Dawn
Author Renée Ahdieh writes a fabulous story about a young girl named Sharzad
(or Shazi) who is the wife of the Caliph of Khorasan, Khalid. Every morning at
sunrise, Khalid kills his wives. Determined to seek vengeance for her best friend
who was an unlucky victim of the sunrise murder, Sharzad is determined to live to
see another dawn and devises an expert plan to do so. This book cleverly depicts
the tale of the Arabian Nights in the form of an unexpected love story. Also, the
second book just came out which is also a very good read! This is a very fun and
interesting read, and I definitely recommend it for this summer.
Anna Cummings, class of 2017
Albertalli, Becky
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
High school is hard; Simon makes that abundantly clear. Now, the majority of the
time books about persons in high school discovering or even uncovering who their
identities are riddled with clichés. There is normally the angst, the depression,
the societal and self-hatred, but Albertalli leaves that all behind. Now make no
mistake: there are plenty of points in the novel where teens are overly dramatic
about something, but not because they were being “teenagers” but because
they were being human. I could not put this book down! It was addicting. The
characters were relatable, the story fun, and the situations somehow magical in
capturing reality. In Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda we meet Simon who
is struggling to keep his sexuality a secret while trying to keep a secret online
relationship going, a relationship that he would like to move from the internet
to real life. He juggles being blackmailed about his online relationship, tension
between his friends, and high school itself. I found myself laughing, gasping, and
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even crying; you won’t for a second regret picking up this book.
Kara D’Alessandro, class of 2017
Albom, Mitch
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom illustrates the amazing life
of young musician Frankie Presto through the eyes of the omniscient narrator,
Music. As a young child, Frankie receives a set of magical guitar strings, which
he soon finds out allow him to control life and death. Music guides the reader
through the highs and lows of Frankie’s wonderful life with his magical strings.
The personification of Music allows for Mitch Albom’s beautiful writing to
weave intricate patterns that truly bring Frankie Presto to life. I became attached
to Frankie’s life story right from the start and found that I could not put down this
book. Full of romance, action, drama, and plot twists, this book truly has it all. I
would definitely recommend the latest installment by Mitch Album to all readers,
especially music aficionados.
Camryn Slosky, class of 2018
Albom, Mitch
The Time Keepers
The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom is an incredibly intriguing book told from the
perspective of three different characters across time, characters that come together
to create one beautiful and touching story. This novel connects subjects such as life
and death and causes the reader to look at time in a completely different way. The
writing style is simply amazing; I could not put it down!
Camryn Slosky, class of 2018
Alexie, Sherman
Blasphemy
The book Blasphemy is a series of short stories by one of my favorite authors,
Sherman Alexie. These stories are about American Indians and the struggles they
face in their lives. This book is intriguing and is written very well. I really enjoy
the stories and the plots, and the attractiveness of the characters and their lives.
This book embodies creativity and truly captivates the reader. The stories are often
indicative, leaving them open for interpretation. The stories are educational in a
cultural way because they open a door to a world that comes often unexplored and
unwritten about. This is one of my favorite collections of short stories.
Sam Tracey, class of 2018
Alexie, Sherman
TheLoneRangerandTontoFistfightinHeaven
This collection of short stories is perhaps Sherman Alexie’s most recognized work,
and for good reason. Though he strictly defines every story as fictional, there is an
autobiographical nature to each one as he explores the hardships and hopelessness
of modern life on Native American reservations. Beneath the obvious study of race
relations is an exploration of the hardships of poverty, and included within it, the
nigh inescapable cycle of alcoholism in native life. Filled with passionate anger
and nostalgia for times long past, The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven
is both an excellent introduction to Alexie’s works and an eye-opening read for
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anyone born into affluence or privilege.
Stephen Hanley, class of 2016
All sorts of writers!
Periodicals (magazines!)
In Praise of the Periodical: While I measure the success of my summer in terms
of the number of books that I read – a classic I somehow missed in college, a title
from the Booker shortlist, a page-turner mystery through which I learn that coffin
dust is poisonous – I’d like to recommend you take some time this June, July,
and August to explore the world of periodicals. I couldn’t live without The New
Yorker or The Economist, and The New York Review of Books is my latest crush.
The breadth of subjects (recent issues contain articles on Shakespeare, Xi Jinping,
James Baldwin, Neuroscience and the Law, and Confined Feeding Operations,
to name a few), the quality of the writing (eloquence and erudition live, dear
reader!), and even the ads for new books from independent and university presses
all make me feel there’s hope that I may yet become well-informed. But it’s
not these magazines alone that I recommend. I encourage you to treat yourself
to a “staycation” excursion to the newsstand section of the Tattered Cover, the
Barnes and Noble on Colorado Blvd, or the periodical room of the public library
and explore for yourself. And while I’ll be sad if you don’t embark on this
recommended adventure, I’ll close by adding an online news source that you may
find interesting: vox.com. Its card stacks, short video presentations, map sections,
and articles offer numerous mediums through which to satisfy your quest for news
and knowledge. But oh, please do close your laptop and venture out to the great
and actual print-on-paper universe of the newsstand!
Ginny Threefoot, Faculty
Andrews, Jesse
Me Earl and the Dying Girl
I would recommend the book Me Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews. The
plot is about a young girl affected by cancer, and her two charismatic classmates
who try and find ways to comfort her. The book’s comical perspective on the
typical life of a teenaged high schooler and the subject of life and death in general
immediately got me hooked. I grew so attached to the characters that I couldn’t put
the book down! The books moving ending actually brought me to tears. I would
recommend this novel to anyone interested in riding an emotional roller coaster. It
is a super-thrilling read!
Ashley Capoot, class of 2018
Araki, Hirohiko
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is a comic series about the lineage of the Joestar family.
The story starts with Jonathan in the year 1880 seeking revenge on his childhood
friend-turned-vampire. Then, it moves to Joseph in the 1940s, trying to save his
own life from the powerful remnants of an ancient civilization. The story moves
forwards and backwards through the years, telling the adventures of Jotaro, Josuke,
Giorno, Jolyne, and Johnny, all the while being the single funniest and wackiest
series of books I have ever read. The memories from this series have stuck with
me in the years since I first read it: Joseph yelling, “You idiot, why would I care?
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I don’t even know that woman!” at a villain threatening him with a hostage, or
Josuke destroying his own motorcycle while speeding down a road in order to
avoid a baby in a carriage, then instantly putting it back together on the other side
so as not so slow down. There is not much of a higher message or theme in the
series, but I can guarantee that you will not laugh harder or be baffled as much by a
series other than this underappreciated and relatively unknown gem.
Jake Zane, class of 2016
Aslan, Reza
Zealot:TheLifeandTimesofJesusofNazareth
I found this book in a bookstore while at a job conference with John Kuntz in
Boston. I picked it up and started reading it, and I could not put it down. In fact, I
may read it again this summer—just because I found it so interesting. A New York
Times bestseller, Zealot is an utterly fascinating account of the historical Jesus and
the origins of the early Christian church. It reads well, but it helps to have some
familiarity of the New Testament.
Eric Chandler, Faculty
Asimov, Isaac
Foundation
The sheer size of the Universe is baffling and impossible to wrap your head
around. It’s so fascinating, yet thinking about it makes my head hurt! Foundation
by Isaac Asimov is a science-fiction novel that truly captures this scale. The story
explores many different civilizations at all different time periods all around the
galaxy. I just grew entranced as the story took me on an intergalactic journey
exploring imaginative and enthralling societies. If you are a science fiction fan,
Foundation by Isaac Asimov is a must read!
Connor Tarr, class of 2018
Asimov, Isaac
Foundation
Published in 1951, Foundation is one of the seminal works of the science-fiction
genre. It won the 1966 Hugo Award for “Best All-Time Series” and was ultimately
expanded to a series of seven books. The original Foundation trilogy consists of
Foundation, Foundation and Empire, and Second Foundation. In a future age so
distant that humans no longer remember their planet of origin, a 12,000 year-old
galactic empire stands on the brink of collapse and anarchy. A brave group of
scientists have developed a method called psychohistory that uses psychology and
mathematics to predict future events. To save humanity from the inevitable 30,000
year dark age that will follow the collapse of the empire, the psychohistorians
establish The Foundation: a top secret colony that will expedite the recovery of the
empire and save countless lives. Can The Foundation survive long enough to fulfill
its purpose? In an age of barbarians, cults, and warlords, the future is anything but
predictable.
Evan Gaffney, Faculty
Atwood, Margaret
The Heart Goes Last
Margaret Atwood is one of my favorite writers, and this is her latest tour de force.
The Heart Goes Last is a futuristic fractured fairy tale. America’s economy has
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collapsed and a formerly middle-class couple finds themselves living in their car
trying to make ends meet. When they are given the opportunity to live in a gated
community in exchange for alternating between living in a house and being an
inmate in a prison, the choice seems simple. However, when the wife becomes
curious about the couple who live in the house while she and her husband are
inmates, everyone’s lives are put in danger. Atwood has a sharp wit, and this novel
has a fast-paced plot. I highly recommend it.
Eddie Young, Faculty
Backman, Fredrik
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry
This book is the heartwarming, funny story of Elsa, a seven-year-old (odd) girl,
and her crazy seventy-seven-year-old grandmother. Elsa’s only friend is her
grandmother. At night Elsa’s grandmother tells her wonderful stories of places
where no one is normal. After Elsa’s grandmother dies, Elsa goes on a wild
adventure delivering letters of apology that Elsa’s grandmother has left behind. A
fun and funny read!
Priscilla Scobie, Faculty
Backman, Fredrik
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry
Seven-year-old Elsa is the main character of this sweet book that beautifully
captures the feeling of childhood wonderment as well as the feeling of isolation
we all experience at some point in our lives. With a colorful cast of characters and
wonderful fairytale narratives, Elsa’s story encourages readers to see the people
around them through the eyes of a child. My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You
She’s Sorry is funny and sad and heartwarming in its exploration of themes like
forgiveness, loyalty, standing up for what one believes, helping others, and fierce
love.
Leslie Brophy, Faculty
Bailey, Elisabeth Tova
The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating
I absolutely love this little book! After Bailey contracted a devastating illness, she
was so weak that merely rolling over proved exhausting. She would ultimately
be bedridden for twenty years. In the midst of her suffering, one of her friends
brought in a snail from the nearby woods that Bailey could observe without
exertion. A book about a mucus-coated, mundane snail? Well, yes. The title pretty
much sums it up. But don’t jump ship just yet. As Bailey illustrates, the snail is
actually an arcane, esoteric, and nuanced creature. Yes, it is humble and familiar,
but do we truly know of its coming and goings, conduct, or predilections? Bailey
thinks not. Accordingly, she skillfully merges little-known but extraordinary
biological information with more poetic musings on the role and significance of
such a wayfaring creature. Writing with evident sincerity, Bailey also weaves in
her compelling personal narrative. Stylistically, the liberal sprinkling of quotations
and excerpts throughout is charming. Germane observations from some very
fastidious 18th century biologists prove surprisingly humorous, while poem
stanzas offer a more mellifluous dimension to things. The author is also a disciple
of E.O. Wilson’s theory of “biophilia,” the concept that a fundamental affinity
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(and what’s more, ecstasy and even love) between man and nature exists. Bailey’s
book provides some pretty strong evidence for that argument. The snail and what
it represents, both wholly natural entities, become the vital cornerstone to her
recovery. Primarily, then, the book is a stunning contemplation of and celebration
to our existential need for the natural world.
Joseph Ort, class of 2017
Balson, Ronald
Once We Were Brothers
I recommend this realistic fiction book set in WWII about some Jewish people
living in Poland. The Germans invade Poland and imprison a lot of the Jews, and
these people were lucky enough to get out. The main character has an adopted
brother, and in the beginning of the book his mother, who lives in Nazi Germany,
takes him back to Germany. He then becomes a Nazi leader, and the two brothers
don’t like each other anymore.
Ian (James) Rolls, class of 2019
Bardugo, Leigh
Six of Crows
Six of Crows is the best sci-fi, pseudo-historical book I’ve read in years. The
cover of the book and the color of its pages, which stood out from all the rest of
the nearby books, first attracted me. The book follows six different characters on a
desperate mission to save their kind from annihilation. The writing is excellent and
the action is fast-paced; Ms. Bardugo’s characters are rich and complex, with flaws
that make them wholly human. There are a few relatively gruesome scenes, but
Ms. Bardugo handles them with eloquence. This book was a nail-biter, and I highly
recommend it for anyone looking for a book you won’t want to put down.
Dr. Katie Hurley, Faculty
Beckett, Samuel
Waiting for Godot
I would have never guessed that a play about two tramps waiting for their friend
Godot would send me into an existential tailspin of endless questions. Through
a long conversation and a series of odd events, this play follows Vladimir and
Estragon through their journey together of doing nothing. This existentialist play
is a fantastic exploration of the meaning of life that will make you question many
things, most of all your sanity.
Justin Coopersmith, class of 2016
Black, Cara
Murder in Pigalle
After double practice, a late dinner, and three hours slaving over my homework,
I have found it extremely challenging to allot time for reading. This year alone I
have left at least three novels unfinished, due solely to the fact that I have been
more passionate about going to bed than finishing the book. This changed when
I stumbled upon Murder in Pigalle. This thrilling, fast-paced murder novel, set in
the vibrant neighborhood of Pigalle, demanded my attention from start to finish.
Investigator Aimee Leduc pursues a serial rapist, and her investigation intensifies
as it overlaps with a high-stake heist operation. Cara Black does not waste time
with meaningless introductions, as the investigation begins abruptly within the first
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chapter. For anyone looking for a quick read that will undoubtedly draw his or her
attention, I suggest Murder in Pigalle.
Emma Domich, class of 2018
Boyne, John
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
I highly recommend the novel, The Boy in Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne. It
follows a powerful Nazi leader’s son named Bruno when the family moves next to
a concentration camp. Not understanding the concept of Nazis, the Jewish religion,
and the entirety of WWII, he explores the compound until meeting an odd boy in
striped pajamas standing behind a fence.
John Koo, class of 2019
Bradbury, Ray
Fahrenheit 451
I recommend Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. This dystopian novel is about a
man who for a living burns book, which are illegal. He meets a girl who opens
his eyes about life, and what his life means to him. This meeting sets off a chain
reaction of crazy events, and he eventually finds himself running from the police
and his book-burning coworkers. Fahrenheit 451 is dream-like, thought-provoking,
and intense.
Bella Sperling, class of 2019
Brittain, Vera
Testament of Youth
This memoir is a moving tale of a young woman’s experiences before, during,
and after World War I. The writing is lovely. She calls the book, quite accurately,
“An Autobiographical Study of the Years 1900-1925.” Vera is an independent
young woman with a hunger to attend Oxford and to be a writer. When her brother,
her soon-to-be-fiancé, and her friends join the war, her life starts to change. This
memoir brings the times to life, making me feel how pervasively the conflict
changed everyone; eventually Vera leaves university to volunteer in what she
calls “the foreign service,” basically volunteering to be a nurse’s assistant near
the front lines of fighting in France. The feeling of a whole generation swept up
in this tragedy becomes quite intimate in this memoir, with her personal voice full
of the detail of an old-world view being swept away. The essence of the tale was
condensed into a beautiful movie of the same name; it stars Alicia Vikander. Of
course, I recommend you pick up the book first. It has never gone out of print since
it was first published late in her life in 1970, becoming at the time an instant bestselling classic.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
Brontë, Charlotte
Jane Eyre
When my Mom passed away earlier this year, I found myself re-reading several
of her favorite books, and Jane Eyre was at the top of her list. Perhaps it was
the beginning that captured her imagination (and mine) when a young girl sits
in window seat reading because weather was too bad for walking. Jane has a
difficult childhood in a boarding school, eventually growing up to find herself as
a governess at Mr. Rochester’s estate. This surly, not-very-handsome man and
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this self-described “plain” and “little” woman have a connection, a tacit and an
awkward one strained by their overt relation as moody, tumultuous employer and
penniless, independent employee. Secrets lurk in Thornfield Hall, secrets that test
Jane’s independence and the strength of her free spirit. Her tale is one that I hope
everyone comes to know. It’s a marvelous story of love, freedom, entrapment,
escape, and redemption. Treat yourself to an eminently readable classic that often
becomes a personal favorite of many.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
Brown, Daniel James
The Boys in the Boat
The Boys in the Boat tells the true story of the Univ. of Washington’s rowing team,
and their quest for Olympic gold. It follows a ragtag group of men who had never
rowed before, as they transform into legendary oarsman. Brown does a fantastic
job of accounting their journey from Washington, to Poughkeepsie, and finally to
Nazi Germany. The book tells the true history, but reads like a novel.
Keelan Woodard, class of 2017
Brown, Dan
The DaVinci Code
If you like mysteries, then this book is for you! I like this book because unlike
some crime shows (such as CSI Miami), it is very hard to solve the crime until the
very end. This story follows a man named Robert Langdon, a symbologist, that
works with a cryptologist named Sophie. Their adventures will keep you on your
toes, and you will be hoping that the book is not over when the back cover closes.
Caroline Reid, class of 2016
Buck, Pearl S.
The Good Earth
Every few years I write a fresh recommendation for this book, one of my favorites.
It moves along gently as it tells the story of a farmer in China obsessed with the
land, with appreciating it and with acquiring more of it. His quiet, long-suffering
wife, O-Lan, becomes the emotional heart of the story as the farmer’s fortunes
fall and then rise, and he finds himself changing with his acquisition of wealth.
There are adventures and poignant relationships, as we peek into a long-ago era
and a changing way of life. Give this moving, quiet story a try; it deserves to
be rediscovered. You’ll see why Pearl S. Buck ended up with a Nobel Prize for
Literature.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
Burgess, Anthony
A Clockwork Orange
I have always enjoyed film, especially classic older movies with complex
and captivating plots. I had watched 2001: A Space Odyssey per a friend’s
recommendation, enjoyed it, and was then on the look out for another Kubrick
film. I stumbled upon A Clockwork Orange, and within a few minutes I was
hooked. I learned that it was adapted from a book; over the next few weeks I
searched for a copy. I obtained a copy and was immediately engaged by Nadsat,
the pseudo-language, a mix of Russian and English that is spoken by the teenagers
in the novel. The book is narrated by Alex, a leader of a gang in a bleak industrial
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cityscape. The book explores their mischievous adventures, run-ins with the police,
wanton acts of destruction, as well as music, prison life, and institutional order. I
usually abstain from writing book recommendations, but this book was more than
worth the read.
Dan Taro, class of 2018
Burns, Charles
Black Hole
This graphic novel is super intense. The art style is stark, dark, and ominous, all
of which matches the intensity of the story. I read it in one night; it’s hard to put
down, but at the same time you might feel like you need to take a break. Probably
don’t let your parents look at it.
Mark Wittmer, class of 2016
Cabot, Meg
The Princess Diaries
This book is a spin off of the classic movie The Princess Diaries in which Mia
tells the story of her life through journal entries. It is a fun book and a quick read.
It isn’t exactly like the movie, so if you have seen the movie and enjoyed it, I
recommend that you read this. The book is funny and a very light read.
Lucy Egan, class of 2019
Cameron, William Bruce
A Dog’s Purpose
A Dog’s Purpose is an intriguing book that follows the multiple lives of a dog
through four short stories. This novel, humorous but mushy at times, shows
the dog’s search for meaning in life. I enjoyed this book because it was both
heartwarming and funny, and it did an amazing job at describing what actually
happens in a dog’s mind.
William Coors, class of 2019
Capote, Truman
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
I liked Breakfast at Tiffany’s because it is a fun, quick read set in New York City
during World War II. It is narrated by Fred, who tells his story of how his life is
changed after meeting Holly Golightly, a glamorous, naïve socialite who lives in
his building. The book follows their adventures together, which end abruptly and
leave the reader wondering what happened to Holly.
Kayla Tuchman, class of 2018
Card, Orson Scott
Ender’s Game
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card is a captivating science-fiction novel with
incredible language, storyline, and theme. Although it follows the journey of a
young teenager, the introspective writing style makes the main character, Ender,
seem wise beyond his years. The plot is filled with action, intrigue, and betrayal,
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making the book truly an excellent read.
Tyler Whitaker, class of 2018
Carey, M. R.
The Girl with All the Gifts
I’m not really a fan of zombies in movies, TV, or books, but I really enjoyed this
adventure. It’s a fascinating exploration of the psyche of an unusual young girl
in post-apocalyptic Britain. As can be expected, an unlikely band of heroes joins
together to save what remains of humanity. Along with the action and adventure,
the characters and relationships are compelling and fully developed. The team has
a compelling mystery to solve. It’s an entertaining read.
Jon Fortmiller, Faculty
Carpenter, Dana Chamblee
Bohemian Gospel
This book is an extremely fast-paced read with a set of complicated themes that
question religion and hierarchy. Be prepared to engross yourself in every page, for
if you miss even a few paragraphs, an entire piece of the plot line may be missing.
Inside is a story about a girl named Mouse with extraordinary abilities who finds
herself among royalty after saving the life of the to-be King of Bohemia. She must
question her identity to find where she actually belongs, whether that be in the
palace or nowhere at all.
Jessica Mitchell, class of 2017
Carson, Anne
Autobiography of Red
This novel in the form of a prose poem is a reimagining of a Greek myth about
Hercules vanquishing a red demon named Geryon. Anne Carson casts Geryon as a
young boy (who is also a red-winged monster) tormented by his love for his callow
friend, Hercules. It’s beautifully written and quite creative, capturing the angst of
first love and coming of age.
Eddie Young, Faculty
Carson, Ben
Gifted Hands
If you’re looking for a book to turn around your bad grades or to motivate you to
turn off your Netflix, this is the book for you. Gifted Hands travels through the life
of neurosurgeon Ben Carson, who overcame the impossible in order to create his
own future. Growing up without a stable home and moving often made Carson’s
life very difficult. He tells the story of how he overcame obstacles, ultimately to
write his own future. Not to spoil the ending, but the boy who was expected to do
nothing ended up saving hundreds of lives and performing surgeries that had never
been performed.
Mallory Garner, class of 2017
Cass, Kiera
The Selection
This series is everything you ever wanted or pictured when you think of princesses
and princes courting each other. In the series you meet America Singer, a
beautiful but fierce girl who will do anything for the people she loves but will
always question the strict structure of her society. She enters The Selection, the
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long-standing competition where the prince of their nation chooses his wife.
Unfortunately, this tradition is met with the completely untraditional attitude of
America. With a spark in her eyes and sass infused in her sentences, she captures
Prince Maxon’s attention. They meet and then one of the cutest love stories you
will ever read begins. America and Maxon are a modern fusion of all of your
favorite couples from literature. They banter like the Darcys, have the awkward
sincerity of Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester, and exude the romantic tension of Daisy
and Mr. Gatsby. You will sit down one afternoon and the next time you rouse
yourself from your reading coma, you will realize with disappointment that the
book or the series (if you are dedicated enough) is finished. This is the perfect start
of summer read that gets you excited for all of the adventures that you can have.
Kara D’Alessandro, class of 2017
Cervantes, Miguel
The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha
This book tells a great story that is both clever and funny. It is a very enjoyable
read. Although written several hundred years ago, a lot of the jokes and themes
are relatable. The book is a parody of a classic medieval-knight tales and follows
the crazy man Alonso Quejana who believes he is a knight: Don Quixote de La
Mancha.
Ben Tannyhill, class of 2017
Chekhov, Anton
The Seagull
This is a magnificent play about a struggle between life and art. A young
playwright named Konstantin is struggling with the lack of approval from his
mother, a former actor. She has fallen in love with one of the greatest writers of
their time, a polite old man named Trigorin. As all the attention in Konstantin’s
life falls onto Trigorin, Konstantin loses his mother, his friends, and eventually the
love of his life to Trigorin. The story encompasses jealousy, finding one’s voice
as an artist, and falling into unrequited love, as well being about the desperation,
frustration, and beauty of life. The Seagull is required reading, in my opinion, for
any writer, artist, actor, and teenager. Although the play is dated, the issues and
dialogue can be heard in everyday life.
Aaron Mathews, class of 2018
Chopin, Kate
The Awakening
The Awakening by Kate Chopin is a quick read (only 94 pages) that explores the
independence and the self-discovery of a woman stuck in a miserable life. The
novel is about Edna Pontellier and her life with a husband she does not love. She
leaves him and her family to start an affair with a man she meets on vacation. First
published in 1899, it was rejected because of its controversial themes of feminism
and adultery. In some ways it was ahead of its time, discussing the role of women
in society, but the themes can be taken up for interpretation. I sat down last
weekend when I had been immersed in writing my research paper, and needed a
change of pace. This book does exactly that, providing an interesting and fun story
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that can be finished in an afternoon.
Sarah Dencker, class of 2018
Christie, Agatha
Murder on the Orient Express
The Orient Express stops during the night, blocked by snowdrifts. Next morning
the mysterious Mr. Ratchett is found stabbed in his compartment and untrodden
snow shows that the killer is still on board. The train travel in the mystery book
provides Poirot with an international cast of suspects and one of his biggest
challenges. Also, this is one of the great surprise endings in the genre.
Jackson Christman, class of 2019
Cixin, Liu
The Three-Body Problem
The Three Body Problem is a unique and innovative work of modern science
fiction. This Asimov-esque novel follows an experimental physicist as he unravels
a mystery of interstellar proportions. There is a one-of-a-kind exploration of the
complexities of unsolvable problems, xenosociology, and the limits of our own
perception of the universe.
Chidambaram Appu Thillairajah, class of 2017
Cline, Ernest
Armada
Armada is an amazing blend of video-game history, futuristic technology,
teenage characters, aliens, and an end-of-the-world scenario that is immensely
entertaining. Zack is the main character and has always grown up without his dad
who disappeared when Zack was young, leaving only his video games and letter
jacket behind. So, like his father before him, Zack loves video games, especially a
space-battle simulator called Armada. Then one day, Zack sees an alien spaceship
outside his window straight out of the video game. As it turns out, the alien is real,
and Armada is a tool of the government to train citizens to fight against a very real
alien threat. Zack as it turns out is one of the best Armada players in the world, and
is whisked away to fight the alien threat. After all, just like his father, he’s been
training for this fight for practically his whole life. The story is full of many twists
and turns, and in the end is incredibly immersive, feasible, and impossible to put
down. I strongly recommend Armada to any fan of Cline’s previous novel Ready
Player One, or just any fan of science fiction or video games in general.
James Hueston, class of 2016
Coelho, Paulo
The Alchemist
I read the book The Alchemist for the first time several summers ago, and I still
read it every year. It’s wonderful story following an Andalusian shepherd named
Santiago throughout his journey to find treasure. The young man encounters
many different dilemmas, jobs, and even love. As Santiago struggles to pursue his
personal legend, Coelho teaches us that the grass isn’t always greener on the other
side. I recommend this book for those who love adventure and learning meaningful
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lessons in each captivating chapter.
Claudia Bautista, class of 2019
Collins, Suzanne
The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games was a thrilling, adventure-filled, and exciting book that portray
a third world. The concept of kids killing other kids for their country’s pride might
seem sick, but if you look at it from a fictional perspective then it will be an easy
read with a lot of suspense. The book focuses on Katniss Everdeen who was
chosen from District 12. She had no choice but to fight for survival against the
other candidates. I recommend this book because it is a thrilling journey about an
underdog fighting for survival and hopefully coming out on top.
Will Hennes, class of 2018
Connolly, John
Dominion
John Connolly, primarily known for writing the Charlie Parker series, creates the
most hauntingly good science-fiction horror books. Dominion is the third book
of the Chronicles of the Invaders series and, in my opinion is the best so far. The
book is about, the Illryi, who conquer the earth in our present time. The remaining
earth folks form a militia of sorts and fight to rid the earth of these pests. The main
character, Paul Kerr, is one of the leaders and eventually falls in love with one of
the Illryi. This book is action-packed, and includes political elements. For all you
science-fiction readers out there, this is the book for you!
Jackson Klutznick, class of 2019
Courtenay, Bryce
The Power of One
The Power of One, written by Bryce Courtenay, is a novel set in South Africa in
the mid 20th century. The book addresses many different social-political issues that
were present in the 1940s and, to a lesser extent, today. I read The Power of One
two summers ago and have taken many things from it. It was a book recommended
by my eighth-grade teacher and I decided to give it a go. It is a tale of adventure
and friendship in unlikely places that speaks to me. The main character, Peekay,
grows up within the novel and the character development is evident. One of
the things I really look for in a book is the development and changing within
characters. This book clearly displays the growing and maturing in many
teenagers. It discusses racism, sexism and many other, real issues, both fascinating
and powerful. I recommend this book to mature young adults who can handle a
few curse words and deep content, and who enjoy a good, thought-provoking read.
Lukas Drexler-Bruce, class of 2018
Crais, Robert
Suspect
Suspect is an exciting book about a retired and injured policeman who applies
to join the K9 division. He chooses to be partnered with a German Shepard
experiencing PTSD after her previous owner was killed in Afghanistan. The two
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develop a special bond and save each other’s lives on multiple occasions.
Casey Ross, class of 2017
Cummings, E.E.
Selected Poems
Famous for his play with words and sounds, and for the fragmented look of his
poems, E.E. Cummings writes poems that are just a delight. You can get any
volume of his works. Check out the poems “since feeling is first,” “maggie and
milly and molly and may,” or “thank You God for most this amazing.” Cummings
is modern and daring. Some of his constructions might puzzle at first, but it’s not
work to read them; it’s a fun game. He has a striking anti-war poem in “i sing
of Olaf glad and big,” and a candid, playful sexual one in “i like my body when
it is with your.” Go and explore his creative offerings. You’ll find yourself well
rewarded.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
Dashner, James
The Death Cure
James Dashner finishes off his exciting Maze Runner trilogy with The Death Cure.
Thomas and his friends continue trying to escape WICKED, a group of scientists
using them for experiments and trials as the scientists try to find a cure for a
worldwide disease. This adventurous novel takes the reader through Thomas’s
treks and battles, and there is never a dull moment. I couldn’t put this book
down (or the first two) and was very sad when it finally came to an end. I would
definitely recommend it for anyone who loves action-packed reads.
Jack Frank, class of 2018
Dasher, James
Maze Runner
The Maze Runner was an exciting science fiction novel that depicted the horrific
adventures of an apocalyptic world. The main character, Thomas, an intelligent
young adult, arrives in a gigantic maze greeted by many other young boys like
himself. Throughout the book the boys work together to find a way to escape the
maze while trying to survive from huge slug-and-metal creatures that feed on
people. I really liked this book because it is action packed with lots of interesting
scary moments. I feel like I am one of the boys trying to survive in the maze.
Haidon Citron, class of 2018
Dasher, James
Maze Runner
The Maze Runner is an action-packed book filled with twists and turns, especially
mysteries with the government. I like this book because it is interesting and
involves government conspiracies. It is similar to The Hunger Games and the
Divergent series, which I find fascinating.
Jessica Garcia Tejeda, class of 2018
Dasher, James
Maze Runner
The Maze Runner was an amazingly articulated book with a stimulating and
interesting story line. After waking up inside a glade filled with other male
adolescents, Thomas must find a way for them to escape from the maze with their
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lives. After the arrival of a strange and unconscious woman, however, the situation
becomes dire as things keep going wrong. Will they escape the maze? Find out by
reading this fantastic book and the rest of the series.
Jordan Baum, class of 2018
DeBuys, William
The Last Unicorn
The notion that large land mammals still exist unknown to mankind is an
enchanting, if usually improbable, proposition. It proved true, however, in the
case of the saola, an extraordinary, beautiful animal with evolutionary ties to both
antelope and oxen. This remarkable creature was not known to science until 1992,
and since then, only a few captive individuals have been studied. This book details
an amazing quest attempting to discover a living saola in the wild. To reach saola
habitat, DeBuys travels to an isolated corner of the globe in Southeast Asia, the
Nakai-Nam Theum Protected Area. As a westerner, DeBuys’ travelogue about the
region’s culture, geography, and lifestyle is fascinating. In the lush forests of Laos
and Vietnam, the expedition team stumbles upon countless poacher traps, which
have devastated many other endemic species, but also evidence of a living saola. I
won’t spoil if DeBuys and company are able to find the enigmatic creature in the
end, but definitely read to find out! The book includes some very nice reflections
on conservation as well. Several points in the book are poignant, with discussion
on the idea that the saola may become extinct before humanity has come to
appreciate that it even exists. The recounting of the expedition truly reads like
an adventure; close calls with the sketchy denizens of the forest, food poisoning,
and the physical perils of somewhere so remote are a rousing reminder that the
world still harbors some thrillingly untamed places. The Last Unicorn is for those
who feel that our twenty-first digital world is a little too predictable, vapid, and
apathetic when some of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders are on the
verge of disappearing forever.
Joseph Ort, class of 2017
Denver, Rorke
Damn Few
Rorke Denver takes the reader inside the mind of a Navy SEAL. From personal
tips on how he survived BUD/s (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) to how
he ran BUD/s after his deployments, Rorke Denver shares his experience behind
enemy lines. With stories regarding missions in the Middle-East, to his journey
of how SEAL mentality starts from the day you are born, Lieutenant Commander
Denver holds no information back from the reader. For anyone who enjoys reading
about pushing your mind and body to the limits, military service, and actionpacked, nail-biting adventure, this is the book for you.
Wyatt Autterson, class of 2016
Dickens, Charles
Christmas Carol
The story A Christmas Carol, is a heart-warming story about redemption and
the good outcome of second chances. Ebenezer Scrooge undergoes a series of
realizations that change who he is as a person. Scrooge morphs from a mean,
grumpy character into a man who is kind and compassionate and giving to others.
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The story A Christmas Carol is a great read for anyone who wants to indulge in a
story of redemption and gratitude while observing a character change his moral
values.
Henry Rogers, class of 2019
Diffenbaugh, Vanessa
The Language of Flowers
A heart-touching novel, The Language of Flowers tells the story of a girl growing
up in the foster-care system. As she continues to move from one “home” to
another, she puts up walls and barriers that prevent her from letting in anyone who
might form a relationship with her. Her gift of communicating through flowers and
the traditional Victorian meaning that flowers once held bring her closer to human
connection, and her gift ultimately forces her to decide if she is willing to take the
risk of opening up and loving again.
Ginnie Kurtz, Faculty
Doerr, Anthony
All The Light We Cannot See
I really enjoyed reading All the Light We Cannot See because it was inspiring,
and although it was historically accurate, it was also creative and captivating.
This book follows the lives of two young children over the coarse of a few years
during WWII, concluding when their paths eventually cross. The two characters
are Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, an orphaned German boy. It is
unique to read a book that switches between characters, as it offers an interesting
variation in the perspective of certain events from their different backgrounds. This
book is touching and captivating, making it a great choice for anyone looking for
something interesting to read.
Elsie Halvorsen, class of 2019
Doerr, Anthony
All the Light We Cannot See
Through most of the book the lives of the two protagonists run parallel. Werner a
German orphan enlisted in the Hitler Youths, and Marie-Laure a French child gone
blind at the age of six, find their parallel lives one day colliding in the French town
of Saint Malo towards the end of World War II. The story also revolves around a
beautiful and legendary gem, The Sea of Flames, entrusted to the care of MarieLaure’s father who must prevent the Nazis from finding it. Do not let the size of the
book intimidate you. The story is gripping, the prose beautiful, the humanity of its
characters profound. It is one of the best books I have read in a while.
Maud Sullivan, Faculty
Donoghue, Emma
Room
Room is a moving story about a mother and a young boy being held captive in
a small 11-by-11 foot room. For the young boy named Jack, this room is all he
knows, and he believes it’s the entire world. When the mother tells Jack that there’s
a world outside of the room, his world crumbles as they plan an escape. Told from
the perspective of Jack, the book has an eerie innocence and an interesting and
different point of view. Although it’s a popular movie, the book is memorable and
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powerful, and I would recommend it even if you have already seen the movie.
Mariah Le Beau, class of 2016
Donoghue, Emma
Room
Room was published in 2010, but recently gained popularity in 2015 for its movie
adaptation that was nominated for three Academy Awards. The movie is great,
but the better story is the novel, creatively told from the perspective of five-yearold Jack, who knows nothing of the world but the shed in which he was born and
raised. He lives with his mother, “Ma,” who was abducted as a teenager and gave
birth to Jack in the shed. Room is a poignant tale of freedom and familial love,
and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a nontraditional modern
story.
Teagan Kim, class of 2016
Dorst, Doug & Abrams, J.J.
S
The story of S intertwines several different mysteries into its plot. At face value,
there is the book that lies within called the Ship of Theseus, in which the narrator
finds himself struggling to find his past. As well as this two students pass the Ship
of Theseus back and forth through a library and create another novel though the
series of side notes that they leave in the process of judging the book’s authenticity
and that of the author’s mysterious background. Overall, this somewhat-thrilling
mystery is a great read if you have time to dive into a world of deceit within the
story S.
Aiden Woodard, class of 2019
Doyle, Sir Arthur Conan
The Hound of the Baskervilles
This is a classic Sherlock Holmes story about a family that is rumored to be
haunted by a spectral hound. The plot moves along at a nice pace, as it is a
suspenseful and enthralling story. It is a good representation of the personalities
created by Doyle for Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. These two characters are
often developed to fit into modern TV and film adaptations, so it is very interesting
to see the characters as they were originally.
Sofia Daley, class of 2016
Doyle, Sir Arthur Conan
The Hound of the Baskervilles
The fifth book in the Sherlock Holmes series, The Hound of the Baskervilles
follows the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and his loyal assistant, John Watson,
as they travel to the Baskerville Hall to investigate a mysterious case. The case
surrounds a legend of a monstrous hound killing members of the family. This
mystery novel is an enticing page-turner, with an incredible ending.
Glennan Keldin, class of 2017
Draper, Sharon
Out of my Mind
Out of my mind lets you inside the mind of a courageous and smart character
named Melody. She is unable to walk or talk due to cerebral palsy, but she has a
perfect memory. She’s more intelligent than most of the adults that try to diagnose
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her condition, and she’s smarter than all of her classmates. She is determined to
prove to her classmates, who deride her as mentally challenged, that cerebral palsy
will not dominate her life. Out of my Mind will forever change they way you see
anyone with a disability.
James Dahlen, class of 2019
Eggers, David
The Circle
I enjoyed this book because of the relevance of tech superpowers like Google and
Apple. It had the right amount of mystery and good writing to make it a real pageturner. I felt as if I were in the future with the characters, and when they make the
wrong decisions, I want to yell at them.
Ulysses Atkeson, class of 2019
Fatsis, Stefan
A Few Seconds of Panic
Middle-aged journalist Stefan Fatsis trains for over a year with kicking coaches
and is eventually able to become a backup kicker for the Denver Broncos. I love
HBO’s “Hard Knocks” and found Fatsis’ first-person account of a kicker trying to
make it in ‘the league’ to be riveting as well. If you have ever wondered what life
is like in an NFL locker room, you’ll enjoy this book, and Broncos fans will enjoy
seeing names such as Shanahan, Elam, Plummer, and Cutler.
Henry Clark, Faculty
Faulkner, William
The Sound and the Fury
This novel is a four-part saga about a Southern family, the Compsons. It cycles
through four different points of view, and each section has a very different style
that helps reveal a different side to the story. This profound book contains a strong
women role and has themes such as forbidden sexuality and innocence. Although
the book could be a little difficult to read and requires some patience, the story was
interesting and satisfying. It’s worth the read.
Mariah Le Beau, class of 2016
Fink, Joseph and Jeffrey Cranor
WelcometoNightVale
Anyone interested in surrealism and magical-realist worlds looking for a quick
beach read over the summer will love Welcome to Night Vale. The story tracks
Jackie Fierro, a thousand-year-old pawnshop owner exempt from aging, and
Dianne Crayton, a human mother of a rebellious, shape-shifting son, in Night Vale,
a totalitarian town in the southwest ruled by government conspiracies and angels.
Set in an absurdist, dystopian, yet endearing world, the novel somehow manages to
be enthrallingly exotic while containing the seeds of deeply human themes about
familial love through beings far beyond everyday comprehension. Welcome to
Night Vale is one of those few books readable in an afternoon that can make the
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reader question reality and human emotion for days.
Russell Stewart, class of 2016
Fitzgerald, F. Scott
The Diamond as Big as the Ritz
F. Scott Fitzgerald wasn’t a one hit wonder with The Great Gatsby. The Diamond
as Big as the Ritz is terrific novella that captures the excess of the roaring 20s
though the eyes of a teenager. It’s short enough that you can sit down and read
it in an afternoon, but it will stick with you long after you read the last page. I
recommend this book to anyone who loves stories of the 1920s or just wants a
quick read.
Nicholas Fotopulos, class of 2016
Fitzgerald, F. Scott
The Great Gatsby
This book will always be one of my favorites. The plotline is intriguing, combining
a love story with pursuit of success in New York in the 1920s, and the story is
beautifully written so there is not a dull moment. Gatsby finds himself recreating
his whole life seemingly in the pursuit of a woman, Daisy, when really he is trying
to become an unarticulated form of himself that is only ‘complete’ when he is with
Daisy. Overall, this short, sweet novel should be read by all as it is an American
classic, as well as an entertaining and intriguing story that, while seemingly a
simple story about a man’s greed, reaches much farther than that into the human
condition.
Carlin Laney, class of 2016
Fitzpatrick, Huntley
MyLifeNextDoor
Though undeniably a young adult romance novel, this book sucks in the reader and
will hold you captive the whole way through. This is the story of first love, family
struggles, and summer bliss, a bliss that even makes a crappy summer job seem
perfect. You will love every minute of this love story as a first love tries to find its
footing over the span of a summer.
Cassie White, class of 2016
Flynn, Gillian
Sharp Objects
If you liked Gone Girl, you will enjoy another book by Gillian Flynn. Sharp
Objects is about a woman, Camille, who has to go back to her hometown to cover
the murder of two preteen girls. While this is no small feat, she also has to endure
seeing her mother and half-sister, and address a past that was to say the least,
not idyllic. Without giving away the significance of the title, this is a book that
will keep you tense as you read, and you will think to yourself, “this isn’t really
happening.” The tale is slightly over the top but in a good way that will keep you
hooked from start to finish.
Krista Pearman, Faculty
Follett, Ken
World Without End
Based in 14th century England during the height of religious persecution and
the Black Death, World Without End does a brilliant job of blending historical
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fiction and an interesting story. With intrigue, political strife, disease, death, and
victimization, this book is probably one of, if not my all-time, favorites and I
highly recommend anyone who is interested in historical fiction to read the book!
Trent Smiley, class of 2017
Forester, C.S.
Horatio Hornblower Series
It’s hard to encapsulate these tremendous books in one short recommendation.
My only advice is to read them. The Hornblower series follow the life of
Horatio Hornblower, a British sailor during the Napoleonic Wars. Hornblower
is conscripted to the Royal Navy as a lowly Midshipman, but through his
gumption, ascends the ladder-like hierarchy of the Navy over the course of
eleven books. I have only read four thus far, and not in consecutive order. Each
book makes a compelling read alone, but obviously, I would recommend reading
them in order. These books have something for everyone. Forester’s meticulous
descriptions of the navy and European politics would delight military buffs and
historians. Hornblower’s complicated love life would entertain the romantic; his
swashbuckling fights would captivate the aspiring adventurer. Forester’s careful
examination of his character’s psyche – to me, the most impressive element of a
very impressive series – would prove fascinating for psychologists and laypeople
alike. These books rank among my very favorite for their charm, complexity, and
unrivaled adventure.
Jonathan Ort, class of 2017
Forester, C.S.
The African Queen
As a fan of Forester’s Hornblower series, I was excited to read another of his
books. Although best known for its 1951 film adaption starring Humphrey Bogart
and Katherine Hepburn, The African Queen does not disappoint as a book. The
story follows the quest of two British nationals living in central Africa: Rose, a
missionary, and Allnut, the pilot of a river launch, The African Queen. World War
I is underway in Europe, and Germany has just annexed central Africa. A fervently
patriotic Rose sees a chance through Allnut to strike back at the enemy, and with
some persuasion, he agrees to help her. Romance and adventure ensue. I was a
bit frustrated with the plot’s predictability. Forester’s romantic writing is also a
bit heavy-handed, and he seems to rely on deus ex machina multiple times. It is
important to note that the book’s treatment of Africans is not politically correct (the
book was written in 1935); however, the surprisingly poignant, if not refreshing,
ending, coupled with Forester’s masterful action writing and subtle reversal of
gender roles, outweigh any disappointment.
Jonathan Ort, class of 2017
Forman, Gayle
If I Stay
If I Stay, written by Gayle Forman, is a heartwarming story that explores the life
of a seventeen-year-old girl named Mia. After being critically injured in a car
accident, Mia has an out of body experience while in a coma. I love this novel
because even though it is painfully sad, it delivers a powerful message towards
young adults. I enjoy this novel because it is a tear-wrencher but will leave you
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with a smile on your face.
Carolyn Robbins, class of 2018
French, Tana
The Likeness
The Likeness tells the story of an Irish murder detective, Cassie, who happens
to find the dead body of a girl who happens to look exactly like her. In order to
figure out who murdered her, Cassie goes undercover into the world of her late
doppelgänger. Told from Cassie’s perspective, Tana French successfully creates
a highly suspenseful and realistic yet unique murder case. The ending is sure to
cause chills. I recommend this novel to anyone who likes a mystery or revenge.
Lily Dines, class of 2018
Furst, Alan
ThePolishOfficer
Set in German-occupied Warsaw, Poland, this spy novel follows Alexander de
Milija on various missions to undermine the Nazi forces. While not having as
much flash as a James Bond thriller, the book quickly hooked me by de Milija’s
resourcefulness, and it was interesting to read about the eastern front of Europe in
WWII. Anyone who likes history or spy stories should check it out.
Henry Clark, Faculty
Gabaldon, Diana
Outlander
Outlander, by Diana Gabaldon is a complex, riveting story that transports the
reader to Scotland post-World War II and during 1743. Claire Randall, a prior
combat nurse during WWII, is taking a second honeymoon with her husband,
Frank when she is suddenly slung back in time. While stuck in the past, Claire
meets James Fraser, a handsome Scots soldier. This leaves readers curious whether
she will stay loyal to Frank, or follow her heart.
Maddy Johnson, class of 2018
Gaines, Ernest
A Lesson Before Dying
This book tells the story of a couple of robbers and their trial. This book is not for
everyone because it hits on heavy issues of race. A black man is in the wrong place
at the wrong time during a crime. He tries through the trial to prove his innocence
but has to fight the system. He is convicted, and the judge says he is guilty and
given the death sentence. From what I have read, it is about him reflecting on how
unfair and cruel the world is and accepting his death and coming to closure with
certain relationships he has.
T.J. Love, class of 2018
Gardner, Sally
Maggot Moon
Maggot Moon is set in a dystopian alternative history where the allies lost World
War II where the Motherland is set on being the first nation to the Moon. The story
focuses on a boy named Standish Treadwell who has to find his best friend Hector
who has disappeared. The writing style reflects Standish’s unique way of thinking,
forcing the reader to piece together what’s really going on in a strange and harsh
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world.
Sarah Levy, class of 2016
George, Jean Craighead
My Side of the Mountain
I liked My Side of the Mountain because it was an inspiring and adventurous book.
The book is about a young boy named Sam Gribley, who decides to live in the
Bitter Mountains after being fed up with New York City. The story is about Sam’s
experiences in the wild, including raising his own hawk. What Sam didn’t know is
that he’d end up in the news and become famous. Eventually Sam’s family from
New York joins him to live in the wild.
Oliver Greenwald, class of 2019
Gladwell, Malcolm
Outliers
One of my favorite books is Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. The book Outliers
is a series of stories about people’s ambition and intelligence, people who are
“outliers.” In the book, the author writes stories about how outliers become
successes. I would say this book is interesting, eye-opening, and inspiring.
Grant Ho, class of 2019
Golden, Arthur
Memoirs of a Geisha
I liked Memoirs of a Geisha because the plot and storytelling is enthralling. The
descriptions of the settings of Japan are so vivid and real that I was submersed
in the story immediately. This story is about a child’s journey into adulthood by
becoming a geisha before and after WWII Japan. While this story is a bit heavy, it
was never too much to continue on. This story takes the reader through a journey
that teaches about a new and beautiful culture through the eyes of a geisha.
Audrey McDonald, class of 2017
Gonzales, Laurence
Deep Survival
This is a non-fiction book in which the author studies the phycology behind
those who die and survive in wilderness and extreme-sport disasters. The book
goes through many interesting case studies of climbers, backpackers, pilots, and
soldiers, and it tries to pinpoint what traits and ways of thinking promote survival
in dangerous and traumatic situations. Not only are the stories of survival told in
this book incredible but they also offer very helpful insight into how to make smart
decisions in high-stakes situations.
Travis Rase, class of 2016
Grandin, Temple and Catherine Johnson
Animals Make Us Human
Animals Make Us Human is an interesting book about studies involving animal
behavior and emotions. The author, Temple Grandin, works to improve the lives
of animals by doing things like improving slaughterhouses. This book provides a
look at her knowledge of our non-human companions. The chapters in this book
are organized by type of animal, and each chapter contains research on animals’
socialization, behavioral issues of each animal, and proper training for each. I
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would recommend this book to anybody who is interested in animal behavior.
Sophie Corbett, class of 2018
Green, John
An Abundance of Katherines
John Green has been popular in the past couple of years. I read his cliché book
about the girl dying of cancer in a day and, unfortunately, it did not live up to its
extensive hype. I stumbled upon this book in Barnes and Noble and decided to
give the author a second chance. I began to read it and immediately enjoyed the
quick wit of the main character who as a child prodigy is not socially adept. He
takes a road trip with his Muslim best friend who is unmotivated and needs to get
out of the house so that his brain doesn’t turn into Judge Judy-related mush. As
they tour different states, they come across a small farm town and are offered jobs
and a place to stay. Of course, there’s a girl, and the plot thickens and unfolds into
an unlikely bond. While this may seem cliché, the author keeps you interested with
a variety of complicated math equations that provide a glance into the world of a
prodigy child who sees things in a different light.
Adelaide Hanson, class of 2018
Green, John
The Fault in our Stars
My favorite book is The Fault in Our Stars by John Greene. The book is about a
sixteen-year-old cancer patient who falls in love with a boy whom she meets at
a support group for those with cancer. Together, they go on an adventure to meet
her favorite author in Amsterdam. Although the trip does not satisfy her hopes, she
learns a lot about herself and who she is. This novel is captivating, romantic, and
hopeful.
Claire Crossman, class of 2019
Green, John
The Fault in Our Stars
The novel is a meaningful story about a girl who has to overcome significant
obstacles that could determine her entire future. This book is written in a way
so that people of all ages could comprehend the information. I enjoyed the story
because it kept me on my feet, so to speak, the whole way through and it was
realistic enough to make it easy to actually relate to the characters. The book will
make you think about your own being and how meaningful and lucky you are to
even have a life. By the end of The Fault In Our Stars, I was brought to tears.
Julianna Pook, class of 2018
Green, John
The Fault in Our Stars
I liked The Fault in Our Stars because it was very sad at times, but John Green was
also able to make it funny and happy at times, which I found enjoyable as a reader.
It was the type of book that I could not put down. I also like it because the plot was
realistic and the characters seemed like real people with real personality, so it was
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easy to connect with the book.
Tucker Joseph, class of 2019
Green, John
Looking for Alaksa
This summer I read the book Looking for Alaska by John Green in two days,
which says a lot because I don’t like reading! The book tells the story of a boy
who goes to a boarding school and his once-ordinary life is exposed to the
crazy ways of the kids and traditions there. He becomes fascinated with a girl
down the hall, who is described as “gorgeous, clever, funny, gorgeous, sexy, self
destructive, screwed, and utterly fascinating.” I enjoyed this book because of the
many transitions and mysteries they boy must survive before he can find closure
regarding the girl down the hall.
Caroline Casey, class of 2019
Green, John
Looking for Alaksa
I recently read this book and loved it. It’s about a teenage boy named Miles Halter
who is tired of his boring life at home. He goes to Culver Creek, a boarding school,
to seek the “Great Perhaps.” At boarding school he meets his soon to be best
friend Chip Martin (the Colonel) and a young, beautiful, screwed-up girl, Alaska
Young with whom he falls in love. After a tragic accident, Miles has to learn how
to cope while solving the mystery of life and death. This book is heart-breaking,
mysterious, and wonderful.
Emma Murphy, class of 2019
Green, John
Looking for Alaksa
Looking for Alaska takes the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions as it shows
the true complexity of the teenage mind as well as the complexity of life itself ,
all while giving easy characters to relate to. This book is about many high school
students that attended boarding school and are from differing backgrounds. Their
fantastic and hilarious adventures reveal personal information. Out of nowhere an
unfortunate event takes place and the main characters all begin to find that life is
more complex than they had originally thought as they struggle to piece together
their shattered world.
Danielle Norris, class of 2019
Green, John
Looking for Alaksa
I enjoyed my most recent read, Looking for Alaska by John Green. The book
tells the story of a teenage boy, Miles Halter, heading to boarding school to seek a
“great perhaps.” At Culver Creek, he meets Alaska Young, the girl of his dreams;
however, Alaska abruptly leaves school in the middle of the night and is killed
in a car accident. John Green takes readers through Miles’ journey of solving the
mystery of Alaska’s death. The novel is captivating and tragic. I could never put it
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down.
Lucy Pratt, class of 2019
Grisham, John
A Time To Kill
The very definition of a legal thriller, A Time To Kill describes a capital murder
trial in the deep south. After Carl-Lee Hailey is charged with murder for protecting
his daughter against brutal racists, Jake Brigance, a young lawyer, is tasked with
defending him. Brigance must brace himself for threats, violence, and hatred.
Overall, an absolute page-turner, perfect for reading at the beach.
Rob Casey, class of 2016
Groom, Winston
The Aviators
This nonfiction masterpiece captivated me. The book artfully recounts the story of
three remarkable aviation pioneers: Eddie Rickenbacker, a World War I ace and
eventual airline executive; Jimmy Doolittle, the first aeronautic engineering PhD
and commander of the storied Doolittle Raid of 1942; and Charles Lindbergh,
a former stunt and mail delivery pilot turned transatlantic hero and World War
II dogfighter. The book weaves the stories of these men’s lives into a cohesive
narrative that emphasizes the seat-of-the-pants nature of early aviation and
extraordinary bravery of these men without resorting to sappy patriotism. The
book is best described as three fascinating biographies coupled with a layperson’s
history of aviation. In addition, Groom takes a new angle on Lindbergh’s
controversial anti-Semitism. I would have liked for the book to further explore
these men’s lives after World War II, but overall, this is a tremendous read.
Jonathan Ort, class of 2017
Grover, Tim S.
Relentless
This book is a look into the minds of Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Dwayne
Wade. Tim Grover is a personal trainer and mental coach for elite professional
athletes. In this book he shares his insights from the best, and the psychology
behind his training. He talks about how to mentally handle pressure, fear, and
distractions. Beyond a “closer,” someone whom teammates can count on in the
clutch to finish out a game, Grover has come up with the definition of a “cleaner”
who could be described as a closer who takes over the whole game, with the
mentality of “I own this.”
Stephanie Kyser, Faculty
Gruen, Sara
Water for Elephants
In the middle of a dark night Jacob Jankowski, orphaned and broke, goes searching
for an adventure. By morning, he finds himself working for the mysterious Benzini
Brothers Spectacular circus. Behind the red-and-white-striped tent and glamorous
sequined dresses lies the dark secrets of the show and its performers, both human
and four-legged. A story of love, tragedy and mystery, Water for Elephants is
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nearly impossible to put down.
Cordelia Lowery, class of 2018
Hagen, Uta
Respect for Acting
This book is a written embodiment of the human respect for acting. I recommend
it to any actors looking to take their craft to the next level. In the summer of 2015
I took an advanced acting course at the DCPA, and this book was our text. Respect
for Acting is so full of knowledge that one could flip to any section in the book and
find a helpful tip, a new way of looking at character work, or even advice for one’s
personal life. Uta Hagen is an intelligent writer with the expertise to back up every
direction she gives. This book changed my acting for the better, and I recommend
it to anyone interested in the art of the stage.
Aaron Mathews, class of 2018
Hale, Sunny
Let’s Talk Polo
This book is a good read for any polo players who want to learn more about polo
and improve their game. Sunny Hale was one of the best female polo players in the
world and created a polo book to help people improve and excel at polo. This is not
your classic book with characters, but it has chapters on each aspect of the game.
Whether it is horsemanship, “stick n’ balling,” or even tournament play, Sunny
has a tip to help you get better. I actually learned about this book from my horse
trainer, Glee White; she actually gave it to me as a Christmas present, and it has
been beneficial in many ways! Overall, I learned much from this book about polo,
and it improved my game. I would recommend it to you if you want to learn about
polo or are looking for a couple of tips to improve your game.
Joseph Coors, class of 2019
Han, Jenny
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
One of my favorite books would be To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny
Han. This novel is about a teenage girl who writes letters to all the boys she’s been
in love with, telling them how she loves them but is now ready to move on. She
addresses the letters and everything! But the thing is, she never actually sends
these letter. She just writes them for her own self so that she can move on, and then
she hides them away in her room. One day the main character, Lara Jean, realizes
her letters are missing and later finds out they have been sent to all the boys she
has written one to. The story captures what it’s like to be a teenager in love. In this
twisted love story, Lara Jean ends up with a boy who received one of her letters,
and she experiences her “happily ever after.” The novel touches on the hard social
struggle of high school and the trouble of liking boys, specifically teenage boys. If
you’re looking for something funny, romantic, and a tad bit cliché, this is handsdown a book I suggest you read.
Cleasondra Hamlet, class of 2019
Hand, Cynthia
The Last Time We Say Goodbye
Cynthia Hand forces the reader to dive into the complicated mind of Lex, a girl
whose brother recently killed himself, and feel despair first-hand. After each
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page, we get to know Lex more and to understand why she feels so guilty for her
brother’s death. As I was reading this book, I felt like I was constantly on edge. I
never knew what would happen next in this thought-provoking novel. Join Lex’s
battle to overcome the biggest mistake she has ever made and to move on with the
remaining pieces of her life.
Émilie-Anne Choi, class of 2017
Hannah, Kristin
TheNightingale
This is a novel set in France during World War II. It is about the relationship
between two sisters who live in a small village. They disagree about the threat
of occupation and those who are faced with life-or-death choices and moral
questions. Hannah shows a side of this war that seldom is addressed: the women’s
war. I found this story riveting and poignant. Start it early in the day because it’s
extremely difficult to put down.
Loni DesJardin, Faculty
Hardy, Thomas
The Mayor of Casterbridge
This novel is a perfect cause-and-effect-plot action book. Despite being tragic
it is a great and intense book that will keep you reading until the very last page.
Thomas Hardy is one of the greatest authors of all time, and the Mayor of
Casterbridge is a literary classic. The novel takes place in the town of Casterbridge
in rural England. It revolves around an angry father, Michael, who sells his wife
and baby daughter at a country fair. The novel continues to track him over the next
few years where he establishes himself as a successful person in his community.
Despite his success as the mayor, his past continues to haunt him, a past that
quickly uncovers his flaws.
Lacey Rifkin, class of 2016
Hardy, Thomas
Tess of the D’Urbervilles
A pure and innocent girl follows the social norms of society, constantly conforming
to her family’s ideals. She is trapped in a world where she has to do everything to
please her family. When her family loses their only horse, Tess is driven by her
family’s need for money to “claim kinship” with the wealthy family called the
D’Urbervilles. She is introduced to Alec D’Urberville and his world where her
pure and innocent self can easily be destroyed. Life takes a turn for the worse when
Tess’ innocence crumbles and she is shunned by the ones she loves most in her
life. She falls into a state of depression until she meets another man, Angel Clare,
who could be the one to turn around her life. Now she is plagued with the decision
of whether to reveal the reason her innocence was destroyed or live her life full
of lies with a seemingly perfect man who sees no faults in her. The book explores
Tess’ life and its big question: what will Tess’ future bring and will her life ever be
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complete?
Abby Rifkin, class of 2016
Hardy, Thomas
Tess of the D’Urbervilles
Tess of the D’Ubervilles was a book that really connected with me because I was
able to understand the main character, Tess. She was a pure and innocent girl until
an unfortunate event was forced upon her by a man. Hardy is able to portray this
woman through all her struggles with identity, love, and purity and still make her
seem strong and independent. Throughout the book, she is able to go through life
and find herself and what her true desires are, especially about the idea of love. By
the end of the book, Hardy shows Tess at her strongest moment even though she is
in a moment of extreme sorrow and despair for Angel and for Tess’ sister. I loved
this book and really encourage everyone to read it but especially woman because I
found it very personal.
Oakley Wurzweiler, class of 2016
Hawkins, Paula
The Girl on the Train
The Girl on the Train is well-crafted and will leave you wanting to read more.
When Megan goes missing, no one knows what has happened. The police
have no leads; her husband Scott is the main suspect, and the only hope to find
Megan seems to be Rachel, an alcoholic who takes the train everyday. As Rachel
attempts to find Megan and herself, she realizes how dark the world can really
be. I recommend The Girl on the Train because it will open your mind to reality
and leave you on the edge of your seat, but most of all you will end up laughing,
crying, and more.
Emma Adelstein, class of 2018
Hawkins, Paula
The Girl on the Train
This book is a very intense murder mystery set in the present day, making it
creepier to read because I could relate to lots of the places, people, and scenes in
the book. I couldn’t put it down, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a
thriller that will send chills down your back.
Elsie Halvorsen, class of 2019
Hawkins, Paula
The Girl on the Train
This is a great thriller for fans of Gillian Flynn (Author of Gone Girl, Dark Places,
and Sharp Objects). The Girl on the Train is soon to be a major motion picture,
starring Emily Blunt, Haley Bennett, and Rebecca Ferguson! In the tradition of
Flynn novels, the main character’s motives and memory are questionable. Is “the
girl on the train” a jealous alcoholic stalker or a virtuous detective?
Jon Fortmiller, Faculty
Hawkins, Paula
The Girl on the Train
Every morning and night, Rachel commutes on the local train through a neat
suburban neighborhood. The train always idles a few minutes at the same stop
signal and Rachel peers out her window into the unfamiliar lives of a young
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couple, whose backyard is directly situated below the stop. As time passes, Rachel
comes to feel she like she knows them, until one day, something is different.
Rachel’s life gets entangled with a gripping investigation. A thrilling mystery filled
with intriguing characters, The Girl on the Train will keep you turning one page to
the next.
Portia Tieze, class of 2018
Hemingway, Ernest
The Old Man and the Sea
A quick summer read that begins on the sea. The Old Man and The Sea follows
a man’s battle against the natural forces of the sea and continuous bad luck.
Hemingway keeps the reader hooked with beautiful imagery and poignant
relationships. This book will leave you gasping for air and wanting closure.
Tillie Newcomb, class of 2016
Hemingway, Ernest
The Sun Also Rises
The extravagance and emotional excess of expatriate life in post-World War I
Europe is beautifully and brilliantly considered in Hemingway’s The Sun Also
Rises. This roman á clef was inspired by Hemingway’s own circle of intellectual
expat companions, and in the book a group of unlikely friends depart the sybaritic
indulgences of Paris for a lurid adventure in the riotous fiestas and bullfights of
Pamplona. In this small company, character dynamics are by turns charming,
cruel, candid, and, in almost all cases, raw and vividly real. The emotions of
characters truly run the full gamut of the human experience, and Hemingway’s
ability to fundamentally capture feeling and passion with his signature style of
restraint is one of the book’s great strengths. None of the characters are eminently
relatable or admirable—they live ridiculously decadent, hedonistic lives and can be
disgustingly selfish—and yet, the reader still cannot help but feel a deep, profound
connection to the suffering, enthrallment, and bewilderment they experience. It
is amazing that Hemingway’s writing can cultivate a genuine sense of empathy
between such disparate entities as the flawed character and the reader, even with
the reader encountering the character a century after its conception. The author
never gets carried away with or lost in superfluous, distracting details, even though
the lifestyle he describes is full of them. For an all-too-brief two hundred and fifty
pages, readers share a vague but prevailing bond with the characters. I guarantee
that they will be immensely grateful they could savor and cherish that bond.
Joseph Ort, class of 2017
Herbert, Frank
Dune
The novel Dune by Frank Herbert, takes place in a futuristic society located in
deep space. It follows Paul Atreides on his quest to overcome and stop the corrupt
villains who attempt to thwart the peace established by his father years before.
During his quest, he tries to fill the shoes of his father while standing out from his
father’s accomplishments on his way to be his own person. Published in 1965,
this book has laid the groundwork for the sci-fi stories we have today, including
Ender’s Game and even Star Wars. As such, I would recommend this book to all
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readers looking for an action-packed, coming-of-age, futuristic novel.
Jordan Baum, class of 2018
Hillenbrand, Laura
Unbroken
In Unbroken, Laura Hillenbrand tells the true story of Louis Zamperini, an
Olympic runner turned U.S. Air Force airman. A story of perseverance, resilience,
and survival, Unbroken is a page-turner. This book includes multiple comeback
stories, as it follows Zamperini throughout the trials and tribulations of his athletic
and military careers, including his time as a prisoner of war. Most of all, this book
is a salute to a true American hero.
Rob Casey, class of 2016
Hosseini, Khaled
And the Mountains Echoed
In this novel, Hosseini explores human relationships in an electrifying tale
about a brother and sister separated during youth. Using multiple characters, he
examines family relationships throughout the course of several decades. It is set in
Afghanistan and begins in in the early 1950s, using the turbulent political climate
and violent conflict in the late 1900s in Afghanistan as an intense backdrop. This
novel is about a human search for fulfillment and how people can often find
missing pieces of themselves in others. If you enjoyed All the Light We Cannot
See, you will appreciate this novel.
Bailey Amspoker, class of 2019
Howard, Tim and Ali Benjamin
The Keeper
I highly enjoyed this book because it is a classic underdog story, but it is also real.
It is about an American soccer goalkeeper named Tim Howard and his struggle to
become one of the first well-known American soccer players. The book tells of his
struggles along this journey, such as coming from a very poor family, the United
States not being a big soccer country, having hyperactive Tourette’s syndrome, and
many more. This book kept me interested, and I found it very relatable in many
ways. If you love soccer you’ll love this book.
Ellis Lawrence, class of 2019
Huang, Eddie
Fresh Off the Boat
Fresh Off the Boat is an autobiography by Eddie Huang. He talks about the
struggles of growing up as an Asian-American kid, some of the trouble he got
into in college, and his ideas of how to be successful while preserving one’s own
culture. Some parts of the book may be inappropriate for younger readers, but the
lessons from the book are amazing.
Jordan Rahe, class of 2017
Ibbotson, Eva
The Star of Kazan
Although this may be advertised as a children’s book, the complex themes and
coming-of-age message gives a reader of any age a pleasurable reading experience.
The story follows a pre-teenage girl, Annika, who was found as an infant in a
mountaintop church by two house attendants in Vienna. The story is set in the
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early 20th century Austro-Hungarian Empire, pre-WWI. While Annika does feel
supported by her loving caretakers and the professors for whom they work, she
dreams of being found by her true birth mother one day. One fateful day in Vienna,
her dream comes true ... or so Annika thinks.
Tate Schmergel, class of 2019
Kalanithi, Paul
When Breath Becomes Air
This is a beautiful memoir from a young surgeon who dies from cancer far too
early. Always interested in writing, Dr. Kalanithi writes his breathtaking story.
Priscilla Scobie, Faculty
Kaling, Mindy
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?
Mindy Kaling is generally known for her roles on hit TV shows including The
Office and The Mindy Project, but her true hilarity surfaces in her book, Is
Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns). This book had me
laughing out loud and definitely freaked out the neighbors sitting next to me on
the airplane. Kaling’s honesty was refreshing and incredibly relatable as she writes
about her childhood, adolescence, and newly found adulthood. The book contains
several essays describing her love, her comedy, and her hilarious experiences
growing up with immigrant parents. This book is a great, light read, and I definitely
recommend it for anyone who needs a good laugh.
Willa Sobel, class of 2018
Kaufman, Amie
Illuminae
Biological warfare in the middle of space? If you are a sci-fi fan, you will love
Iluminae. This book is different than any other book I’ve read; it’s not your typical
first-person narrative; there are two main characters who switch back and forth
telling their stories, but there are also letters, documents, and stories from the
perspective of the spaceship itself. There’s disease, war, and a little bit of romance
in this story. I highly recommend this novel, and, even if you are not a huge reader,
there are pictures and maps and diagrams.
Lyndsey Benes, class of 2017
Kidd, Sue Monk
The Invention of Wings
Read with pleasure as Sarah Grimke, heroine extraordinaire, decides at age eleven
that she does not want to own the dutiful slave given to her by her parents as a
coming-of-age-birthday present (one suitable only in antebellum Charleston, South
Carolina). Kidd illuminates Sarah’s inner struggle throughout her teenage years as
she simultaneously fights ideological battles with her old-school father, befriends
(and teaches to read) her slave, Hetty, and considers her own place in the world
as a woman and as a southern abolitionist. These stories culminate as Sarah tries,
unsuccessfully, to free her slave. Follow Sarah’s riveting tale as she is banished
from Charleston, joins Quakers in Pennsylvania, and eventually spearheads both
the abolitionist and women’s rights movements in New England. This book
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represents historical fiction at it most gripping and relevant!
Ginna Halverson, Faculty
Kidd, Sue Monk
The Secret Life of Bees
I loved The Secret Life of Bees because it is a multilayered story with relatable
themes. It takes place in 1964 in South Carolina. It is narrated by Lily Owens,
a white teenager who lives with her abusive father on a peach farm. The book
follows Lily through her journey to maturity: her struggle to cope with the loss
of her mother while combatting the abuse of her father. Lily receives motherly
guidance from an unexpected source, and the book traces the development of these
sweet relationships.
Sophia Rase, class of 2018
King, Stephen
11/22/63
This book by Stephen King is pretty thick, but don’t let that scare you! It’s a
really easy read and fun to follow. It is about a high-school teacher time traveling
and working to prevent murders, change the past, and eventually alter the JFK
assassination. This book is action-packed and a little scary, but fun to read and
definitely entertaining! When I first saw the synopsis on the back of this book, I
almost passed by this book because time travel sounds pretty lame. Stephen King
definitely makes it interesting, however, and his writing creates a more realistic
version of time travel than most people are used to seeing.
Olivia Leoni, class of 2016
King, Stephen
11/22/63
This story struggles with the question “if we had the opportunity to change the
past, should we?” Jake Epping has found a portal into the year 1958. In just a few
years President John F. Kennedy will be assassinated and Jake has knowledge of
all the historical information (including alternative theories) surrounding the events
leading up to the infamous murder. The only problem is: if the past doesn’t want
to, can it be changed? Should it be changed?
Steve Root, Faculty
King, Stephen
Misery
Misery is a chilling tale of a writer held captive and brutally tortured by a
psychotic, fanatical fan. After he is injured in a car accident in the mountains of
Colorado, successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon is rescued by a nurse, Annie
Wilkes, who takes him back to her secluded home. He learns that she is a huge
fan of his work starring his character Misery Chastain, and she nurses him back to
health. As he recovers in her home, however, Paul realizes that Annie is insane and
a dangerous individual, quickly turning the book into a heart-racing tale of survival
and escape that delves into the mind of the truly sociopathic. It deals with themes
of addiction and perseverance, and it is definitely worth a read if you’re looking for
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a haunting yet beautifully-crafted thrill.
Sebastian Sun, class of 2016
King, Stephen
The Stand
Considered one of if the greatest work by Stephen King, The Stand, is for the true
reader. Taking place in post apocalyptic America where the line between right and
wrong is blurred, this book is great because King’s writing flows from one moment
to the next as civilization attempts to recreate itself beneath two leaders, the kindly
and ancient Mother Abigail, and the incarnation of evil itself, The Dark Man.
While the novel itself comes in around one thousand five hundred pages, every
moment is worth it, and each moment that seems to drag plays just as vital a role
in moving towards the ultimate confrontation. Each character King creates is more
real than the next, and you will find yourself loving them and loving to hate them.
Noah Naiman, class of 2016
Kissinger, Henry
World Order
This non-fiction historical account documents the progression of a multilateral
order in modern day global politics. Wonderfully balancing historical context and
modern studies of global politics, this book is a great and challenging read for
those looking to understand “how the world works” at a deeper level. Beginning
first with the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, the book progresses through time and
political complexity as it identifies the converging historical factors coalescing to
form today’s international political system. Written by a former U.S Secretary of
State, the book is captivating, well written, insightful, and articulate.
Daniel Chao, class of 2019
Koenig, Sarah and “This American Life”
Podcast: Serial
Found on their website “This American Life,” Serial is a podcast from the creators
of that NPR radio show, hosted by Sarah Koenig. Serial tells one story—a true
story—over the course of a season. There are two seasons available, the first
is concerning a young man, Adnan Syed, who was convicted of murdering his
girlfriend in 1999 (and is serving a thirty-year sentence). The second is the story
of soldier Bowe Bergdahl who walked off his post in Afghanistan in 2009 and
was a Taliban hostage for five years. Both are edge-of-your-seat listening, as well
as amazing reporting and story telling. These stories will make the time fly by (if
that’s your objective.) It’s some of the most compelling listening I have ever done;
I loved every minute of it!
Miya Dickman, Faculty
Krakauer, Jon
Into the Wild
In this nonfiction book about the life and death of Chris McCandless, a young
visionary’s ideals send him on a journey across the States hitchhiking, living
outdoors, and occasionally brushing with death. His ability to overcome near-death
experiences convinces him to seek an even more unforgiving frontier: Alaska,
where he attempts to survive in the wilderness relying on hunting and gathering
as his only source of sustenance; he does not make it out alive. Krakauer goes
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beyond just the facts of McCandless’s life and death, and tries to get into his
head and understand his perspective. After you read this book, whether you see
McCandless’s death as a tragedy or just the result of stupidity depends on how
much of yourself you see reflected in McCandless. Either way, you will definitely
not forget this book.
Ivy Jones, class of 2018
Krakauer, Jon
Into the Wild
If you are looking for an adventure, reading Into the Wild will take you on a wild
one! It is the story of a young man who has the choice to stay in a mainstream
life or to take a drastic turn. McCandless chooses to change the direction of his
life and embark on a life-changing journey. Through his many experiences in
different parts of the natural world, McCandless questions himself, his purpose,
and the meaning behind conventional life. This book is exciting, tragic, and full of
adventure.
Kate LaMair, class of 2016
Letts, Billie
Where the Heart Is
Where the Heart Is is a book written about a seventeen-year-old girl who is
pregnant and escapes from a violent and unhealthy relationship with her boyfriend.
She has no money and no place to live after she leaves her boyfriend. Because of
this trouble, she decided to live in a Wal-Mart without anyone knowing of her. She
befriends a man who helps her get her life back on track and makes her feel proud
of herself. Billie Letts portrays the intense moments of a woman in pain and how
she is able to cope with what has happened in her hard and unfair life. I loved this
book because of the pain and sorrow I felt for the girl who is just trying to figure
out her life. It made me really appreciate the love and happiness someone has and
how to help others have a great life as well.
Oakley Wurzweiler, class of 2016
Lindstrom, Eric
NotIfISeeYouFirst
If you’re interested in contemporary fiction, Not If I See You First by Eric
Lindstrom is a quick, funny read. The book follows blind high-school student
Parker Grant, who gives advice to her classmates and has a set of life rules to keep
people from taking advantage of her disability. When her high school merges
with another, she has to deal with a crabby cousin and an ex-boyfriend she hasn’t
encountered in years, all while attempting to try out for her school’s track team and
overcome her father’s recent death. A sarcastic and real book about being blind and
overcoming tragedy, this novel is a great combination of adversity and humor.
Maya Muwanga, class of 2019
Liu, Ken
The Paper Menagerie
This anthology offers short stories that I couldn’t put down, and that I couldn’t
stop thinking about when I finished. I’m not sure if the stories are more speculative
fiction, Asian mythology, or fairy tales for the future, but regardless, they fill you
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with nostalgia for places you’ll never be able to go.
Eric Dawson, Faculty
Lockhart, E.
We Were Liars
Over the summer, I read We Were Liars by E. Lockhart. This book had a
captivating and mysterious plot. Each chapter ended in a cliffhanger, which always
kept me reading. The best part of We Were Liars was the ending because it was
completely unexpected.
Lucy Pratt, class of 2019
Lockhart, E.
We Were Liars
This quick read is hard to put down. I’m glad I read it during the summer because
otherwise I would be reading it under tables during classes. My best friend read it
in a day while she was at the beach, and her mom loved it so much that she read it
in three hours. I gave it to my mom as a birthday present, and she said she could
not focus on work fully until she finished it. This mystery novel keeps the reader
wondering what happened. The chapters advance as she grows up. The closer I got
to the truth, the faster I had to read. By the end you will be saying “Oh my gosh!”
Alex Davis, class of 2018
Lockhart, E.
We Were Liars
I read this book over the summer and loved it! It is about a seventeen-year-old girl
named Caddy Sinclair who spends her summers on her family’s private island off
of Nantucket with her two cousins and one boy with whom she falls in love. After
her tragic accident, Caddy has trouble remembering the events that happened the
past summer. The end of this book is shocking, and I love the mystery throughout
the book.
Megan Elmer, class of 2019
Lockhart, E.
We Were Liars
This year, I read the book We Were Liars by E. Lockhart. The book is about a
group of cousins and their summer adventures on their grandfather’s private island.
When a dangerous event occurs one summer, the protagonist, Cadence Sinclair
Eastman, loses her memory of that summer. Cadence tries to uncover the secret
behind the lost summer as she struggles with her identity, her friendships, and her
love for a boy she hasn’t seen in years. The book is a constant page-turner, as the
reader gets deeper and deeper into Cadence’s secrets. The book will leave you
shocked, emotional, and a little confused.
Ella Newcomb, class of 2019
Loeb, Jeph and Tim Sale
Yellow, Blue, and Grey
Yellow, Blue, and Grey is actually a collection of separate stories of three Marvel
Comics superheroes, Daredevil, Spider-Man, and the Hulk. Though Tim Sale
beautifully paints images to emulate a 1960s aesthetic, writer Jeph Loeb infuses
the graphic novel with more profound reflection (and less pulp) than what would
normally be produced during the Silver Age of Comics. There are slam-bang
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action scenes, but this collection is not really about those. It’s about the loss of
loved ones, an exploration of the psyches of our heroes as they cope. In spite of
the melancholy themes however, I enjoyed this series because there’s an intimacy
present, a quality that allows us to connect with our protagonists and enjoy their
stories, rather than merely admire them.
Mark Bautista, class of 2016
Lu, Marie
Legend
This novel, the first of a trilogy, is an amazing read if you are a fan of futuristic
dystopias (similar to The Hunger Games and the Divergent books). Caught in the
ultimate game of cat and mouse, the main characters, June and Day, cross paths
after an unfortunate murder. This murder is of June’s beloved brother, and she will
not rest until he is avenged. Interestingly enough the prime suspect happens to be
Day, who is forced into this situation in order to protect his family. This novel, full
of suspense, action, and a touch of romance, is sure to keep you interested until the
very end.
Lydia Haile, class of 2018
Luiselli, Valeria
The Story of My Teeth
I read The Story of My Teeth in Latin American Literature with Mr. Lefferts this
year. The brief novel portrays the story of Highway, a collector of seemingly
useless goods and a destine auctioneer. This book is a collection of strange images.
From Highway walking the streets of Mexico City with supposed Marilyn Monroe
dental inserts to the auction of all auctions where Highway sells his own teeth
posing as teeth of famous people, this book is nothing you would expect out of an
author written up in the New York Times, but also everything you could ask for
to fulfill your lust for hilarious literature. I can honestly say this was the first book
that made me laugh out loud. Not bad for a school-required book, wouldn’t you
say?
Parker Evans, class of 2016
Lupica, Mike
Summer Ball
In the book, Summer Ball by Mike Lupica, the author puts a boy to the test when
enemies, friends, basketball, and his girl collide. Danny has just lead his team to
the national championship and feels as if he is on top of the world when he gets
an invitation to an elite basketball camp. His friends are going too, but so is his
arch nemesis on the court. Knowing that he will be playing with the best in the
country is just the start for Danny’s crazy summer. When he gets to the camp and
everything is going right, he meets his ex girlfriend staying at a camp across the
lake. Nothing could be going better for Danny until things fall apart when someone
hits him with a cheap shot in a game right before the playoffs. Summer Ball is a
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book of adventure with a touch of love and competiveness.
Josh Melvin, class of 2019
Lovett, Charlie
The Bookman’s Tale
I have to confess that this is a book I enjoyed but didn’t love. Still, one need not
love every book, especially a fun, quick, summer read. The Bookman’s Tale is
reasonably fast-paced and quite engaging. Peter Byerly finds in an old book a
portrait of his recently deceased wife, but it’s a portrait painted before she was ever
born. The mystery launches the story of this rare-book seller, making connections
to a parallel story told in Shakespeare’s time. The Shakespeare connection attracted
me, especially a story that promises to show a glimpse of the living man in his
own era. The encounters are not as I would envision Shakespeare, but they were
fun, just as the threads that pull this multi-century mystery together make for a
satisfying summer read.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
Maas, Sarah J.
A Court of Thorns and Roses
When the huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the middle of the woods, she is forced to
live out the rest of her days in the faerie realm as punishment. Despite the horror
stories she’s been told about how the faeries used to torture humans, she falls in
love with one of the high fae, Tamlin. A Beauty and the Beast retelling, this story
is written with elegance and dark grace that will engage readers from beginning to
end. Beware when reading this tale as the faeries may just well capture your mind
and heart.
Kasandra Orta, class of 2017
MacLean, Alistair
TheGunsofNavarone
This books is really interesting as it mixes history with fiction, creating an
intriguing story about World War II. Although it is made up, it is so detailed and
accurate to history that I would not be able to tell the difference if I had not already
known. It is a mix of action, mystery, and espionage that makes for a great story.
Ben Carpenter, class of 2018
Mandel, Emily
Station Eleven
In their post-apocalyptic world, members of the Traveling Symphony venture
from town to town, trying to play some small part in holding their world
together through art. Kristen, a young woman, recounts her memories from
before the apocalypse. Tendrils of fate wound throughout the story bring her
back to encounter people from her past life. A crazed and violent man advocates
that survivors of the apocalypse were the “chosen few” and that he is God’s
prophet sent to give them his message so they will do what he says. Mandel
writes both compellingly and meaningfully, truly explaining the meaning of the
phrase “Because survival is insufficient.” Station Eleven tells a story about the
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relationships that sustain us and the beauty of the world as we know it.
Renata Starbird, class of 2017
Martell, Yann
The Life of Pi
Life of Pi was a run-away best seller when it was released. The main action of the
story involves a teenager from India adrift on the open ocean aboard a lifeboat that
contains an orangutan, a hyena, a zebra, and a Bengal tiger. Not all survive. It’s
quite a set up: compelling and tantalizing. Yann Martel takes full advantage of the
adventure engendered by this situation, while also quietly raising issues of faith,
communication, and the nature of storytelling. It’s a perfect summer book in that
it is fun, gripping, and light, while also being memorable, thought-provoking, and
poignant.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
Maxwell, Gavin
Ring of Bright Water
Simply put, Ring of Bright Water is both joyous and poignant. Originally written in
1960 and later adapted into an enjoyable film, the true first-person narrative traces
the author’s heartwarming relationship with Mijbil (“Mij”), a wild otter from Iraq.
Maxwell lived alone at Camusfeàrna, a remote beach in western Scotland, when
he purchased Mij for companionship. The book eloquently describes Maxwell’s
subsequent years of friendship with the uncannily intelligent, affable, and feisty
Mij, in addition to sharing his ruminations on living away from civilization.
Mij’s captivity as a wild animal may seem wrong to the modern reader, but the
book cannot be taken out of context. The book ends tragically, but would delight
naturalists, animal lovers, and those who yearn to “get away from it all” alike. I can
truly say this book has deeply altered my perspective on life.
Jonathan Ort, class of 2017
McCarthy, Cormac
NoCountryforOldMen
Treat yourself to this sparse, fast-moving, daunting story of a three men whose
lives intersect over some found (and taken) drug money in southwest Texas.
Llewelyn Moss finds himself on the run, with a singular hit man named Chigurh on
his trail. This remorseless and relentless psycho of a killer is terrifying, a face for
all the heartlessness in our world. Sheriff Bell is the emotional center of the driving
narrative; his musings on the nature of this evil and the changing nature of America
come out in simple, sparse Texas language, accessible as it is gripping. The book
reads almost like a screenplay in its quick-moving simplicity, but it offers ideas and
images that will haunt your mind long after you put it down.
Neil A. Batt, Faculty
McCarthy, Cormac
The Road
The Road, by Cormac McCarthy, is the story of a man and his son on a journey.
They don’t know where they are going; all they know is that they are traveling
south. It is a compelling story that questions humanity and the relationship between
a parent and a child. I recommend this book to anyone who likes good writing and
a chilling story. There are some intense scenes, but overall it is a fantastic book and
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worth reading!
Danielle Tamkin, class of 2019
Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes,
andtheGreatestRacetheWorldHasNeverSeen
There’s a reason why anyone who runs is asked, “Have you read Born to
Run?” The reason for the question is not that the book a textbook on how to
run; rather, the author does a phenomenal job of intertwining three amazing
plot lines that leave your jaw dropped. One plotline centers on the story of the
Tarahumara, an ancient tribe of runners living in a remote canyon in the Mexican
desert. The second tells an riveting story of a race between the world’s greatest
ultrarunners and the Tarahumara tribesmen, giving a glimpse into the beginnings
of ultrarunning in the United States. Finally, the book sheds light on how and why
human were “born to run” based on compelling evidence about human physiology
and development.
Corky Dean, Faculty
McDougall, Christopher
McEwan, Ian
Atonement
Atonement is a novel that takes place in wartime England and France. The
struggles in the creation of art are expressed through complex characters like
Briony Tallis, who makes innocent mistakes that put her reputation at serious risk.
The damage of a reputation, the demands of perfection and organization, and the
transitions to adulthood are all explored through the life of Briony Tallis. The novel
is relatable, complex, and intriguing, and I highly recommend it!
Kate LaMair, class of 2016
McEwan, Ian
Atonement
Atonement is based in pre-WWII England and takes place mainly on the grounds
of a large estate owned by the Tallis family. A complicated relationship ensues
between the house-keeper’s son and one of the family’s daughters, a relationship
which goes on to cause quite a stir in a previously quiet household.
Lincoln Rychecky, class of 2017
Meyer, Marissa
Cinder
Cinder depicts a fascinating spin on the classic fairytale, Cinderella. Humans and
androids roam the streets of New Beijing while a deadly plague sweeps through
the country. The lunar queen watches from above as thousands of people get
infected every day. Cinder, a gifted cyborg mechanic who finds herself at the center
of an intergalactic struggle, must uncover the secrets from her past in order to
protect the future of her world. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys reading
fantasy or science fiction.
Camryn Capoot, class of 2018
Meyer, Marissa
Cinder
Cinder is an amazing and breathtaking book that is loosely based off of the fairy
tale Cinderella. The book is highly addictive, and it is impossible to not like
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the protagonist Lynn Cinder, a cyborg who meets the dashing prince Kai. The
two begin to fall for one another, but their love is frowned upon by everyone.
Unfortunately, in a society where cyborgs are deemed second-class citizens and
where the lunar people wait ready to strike, Cinder seems like the only person with
the abilities to save Earth. Cinder is an addictive book that can be inhaled in one
sitting or savored over weeks. Whatever you do, read the books in order and let
yourself be engulfed into a world with all your favorite fairytales with a spin.
Esther Omegba, class of 2018
Mills, Emma
First & Then
Don’t judge this book by the cover! Not that I am pretending to know anything
about cover art, but the sickly sweet, frankly boring cover severely undersells the
unassuming complexities of the plot between its pages. This book is a pleasant
surprise. I picked it up because I needed something to read over the weekend, and
the premise was really cute: Not earth-shaking. Not deep-thinking. Not breathtaking. Just really cute. But it was actually weirdly deep, perhaps because the
author isn’t trying to make some literary statement. She’s not assuming that what
she has to say no one has ever heard before, but she also wasn’t planning to add
to the ever-growing shelf of YA romantic puff pieces. She shades her pastel chick
lit with angry strokes of some harsh realities, but it all fits somehow, making for
an attention-grabbing read. The main character, Devon, is a snarky narrator, but
not in the generic tradition of most sassy social outcasts. She made me laugh out
loud on several occasions, and then all of a sudden I was tearing up. All in all, this
book turned out to be a bit earth-shaking, deep-thinking, and breath-taking. Her
relationships were solid and fleshed out, (with a few exceptions, though I leave you
to your own devices on that), the supporting characters were great, the romance
was there and sweet though not dominating. This is a love story about Devon
and the people around her, as she learns to open herself up to new friends, new
experiences, her cousin Foster (the sweetest strangest kid you’ll ever meet), and,
finally, new love. I honestly don’t know what it is about Devon, but she just has
something that I haven’t read before.
Hileena Channell, class of 2018
Mitchell, David
The Bone Clocks
Through an isolated series of events that take place between 1984 and 2043,
Mitchell depicts one world—ours—morphing from carefree consumerism to bleak
anarchy, and a second world—that of two opposing factions of eternal souls—
fighting the ultimate
battle between good and evil. The characters are intriguing, as are the ways their
lives intersect, and the book ends with a made-for-Hollywood, blockbuster,
Armageddon-like battle. I’ll admit that the first two-thirds of the book is much
better science fiction than the last third, but, nonetheless, it’s an engrossing read by
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the author of Cloud Atlas.
Ruth Burnham, Faculty
TheShapeoftheNew:FourBigIdeas
and How They Shaped the Modern World
This is a book about four big ideas: Marxism, Adam Smith’s economics,
Jeffersonian Democracy, and Darwin’s Theory of evolution. Montgomery argues
(quite convincingly, in my opinion) that these “big ideas” each changed the
nature of the respective disciplines they covered. Adam Smith redefined the role
of production in a capitalist economy just emerging from agrarian dependency.
Marx then provided a totally new way to think about capitalism as a destructive
force, and about the role of the worker. Jefferson made us think in different ways
about not only the role of government, but also the role that we as citizens play
as members of society. And Darwin threw people of faith into a frenzy with his
theory of evolution. Montgomery does this all in an entertaining, captivating way
by making each of these four world-changing main characters approachable and
relatable.
Phil Klein, Faculty
Montgomery, Scott
Montgomery, Sy
The Soul of an Octopus
The author, a naturalist and science writer, recounts her introduction to and
fascination with octopuses by acquainting the reader with the various shell-less
mollusks she has come to know through her work at the New England aquarium.
Her explanation of these creatures’ different modes of knowing, sensing, and
communicating will convince you, too, that octopuses have souls!
Ruth Burnham, Faculty
Moore, Alan
V for Vendetta
Although many persons are more likely to be acquainted with the movie
interpretation of this story rather than the original graphic novel, the paper-backed
version is worth taking a look at, especially for those who enjoyed the movie. This
story follows a post-nuclear-apocalypse masked hero as he takes on an oppressive
English regime while putting a young English girl under his wing along they way.
Reminiscent of Watchmen with a more political twist, this out-of-the-ordinary
novel is an acquired taste, but still an interesting quick read. The protagonist,
V, supplies hard-lined commentary, witty quotes, and an interesting view on
government. Although not for the faint of heart or those seeking a more substantial
literary work, V for Vendetta is an interesting and thought-provoking novel.
Jarrek Holmes, class of 2016
Moyes, Jojo
Me Before You
This is my favorite book! I read it in one day. It is about a young man named Will
who is permanently disabled due to a car accident. He meets a young girl named
Louisa (that’s my name too!), and these two go on many adventures, experience
life, and realize how precious time is. If you are looking for a quick, easy, romantic
read that will make you excited, anxious, and maybe shed a few tears, Me Before
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You is perfect for you!
Louisa Benson, class of 2016
Moyes, Jojo
Me Before You
Me Before You is a story about a young woman, named Louisa, whose life is
changed forever when she becomes a caregiver for Will, a quadriplegic man.
Louisa has always lived in her small town and has become complacent with her
life. Louisa has never been outside of her comfort zone before, but Will forces
her to take chances and look at the world in a different perspective. I recommend
this novel because of its suspense factor that will keep you turning the pages. Me
Before You is being adapted into a movie and will be released on June 3rd, 2016,
so make sure to read the book first!
Julia Doyle, class of 2018
Multiple Authors
The Peters World Atlas
I would recommend this visual feast to those wishing to expand their worldview
and improve their knowledge of geography. This atlas presents elegant, detailed,
and precise portrayals of the planet’s surface. To appreciate The Peters World
Atlas, one must understand that any and all maps, flat depictions of a threedimensional world are inherently distorted, especially at the poles and near the
Equator. The atlas itself offers many more interesting technical details on this
matter. The premise of The Peters World Atlas, however, is that these maps are
further distorted—perhaps subconsciously so—by a Eurocentric view of the world.
In almost any global map you are familiar with, European nations and the United
States are depicted as disproportionately large. Take for example, Madagascar
and the United Kingdom: which one would you think is larger? While comparing
the two islands in The Peters World Atlas, which maintains fidelity of area, one
can easily see Madagascar’s greater size; that fact surprises many of us. Another
great bonus of this book are the dozens of maps in the second half of the atlas that
show economic, societal, religious, biological, and industrial trends throughout
the globe. These specific maps are all well organized and extremely enlightening.
On the whole, The Peters World Atlas is an exquisitely reasoned, elegant, and
revolutionary depiction of our round world on flat pages.
Joe Ort, class of 2017
Murakami, Haruki
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage
This novel is a great introduction to Murakami’s writing. The novel follows
Tsukuru Tazaki, a middle-age man who sets out to try and understand why his
closest group of friends exiled him when he was young. His journey leads him
not only to better understand himself but also to better understand the world
around him. I strongly recommend this book to those who are looking to get into
Murakami’s writing or who just want an interesting book that will leave them
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thinking when they finish it.
Nick Fotopulos, class of 2016
Munroe, Randall
What If?
If everyone on the planet stayed away from each other for a couple of weeks,
wouldn’t the common cold be wiped out? What would happen if everyone on
Earth stood as close to each other as they could and jumped, everyone landing on
the ground at the same instant? What if everyone who took the SAT guessed on
every multiple-choice question? How many perfect scores would there be? These
questions are considered by Randall Munroe in What if?. Randall Munroe is a selfdescribed NASA scientist who now is an online cartoon artist. What if? is a book
which answers weird hypothetical questions with science. Each chapter conquers a
new question, followed by a detailed answer about the science behind the question.
Throughout the book, there are comics and pictures, as well as footnotes one must
read. Randall Munroe is able to create a book that teaches science in a fun and
interesting way for all who want to learn a little bit more. For all those who love
science, have very weird questions, or even just want a laugh, this book is for you.
Hunter Lindsay, class of 2018
Nelson, Jandy
I’ll Give You the Sun
Nelson crafts one of the most beautifully intricate stories that I’ve ever read.
She paints the colorful story of a set of twins, Noah and Jude, as they tackle a
whirlwind of heartbreak, self-discovery, and healing in just three years. Noah
is a brilliantly creative, gentle, aspiring artist turned “normal,” while stubborn,
beautiful Jude tests the waters of mediocrity before a tragic event causes her to
lock everyone out of her lonely, strange world. The story is told from each of their
perspectives, each chapter jumping back and forth to different moments in those
three monumental years. This is an intricately woven story about growing up, with
a surprising plot that takes time to appreciate along the way.
Molly Murphy, class of 2016
Nichols, John
TheMilagroBeanfieldWar
If you like to read magical realism and stories that intertwine a cast of unique
characters, this book will certainly fit. The plot centers on a local farmer who
decides to tap into the local town’s irrigation ditch to water his private bean field.
This simple action sets off a chain of events that encompasses every type of
character from private land developers, environmentalists, Peace Corps volunteers,
ranchers, and politicians from the state capitol. The conflicts between all these
players are both humorous and insightful, and they give one of the best glimpses
into the culture and history of the American Southwest ever written.
Corky Dean, Faculty
Nichols, Peter
The Rocks
This story begins in present day and moves back in time as we learn more and
more about what drove a couple apart. The beautiful Mediterranean setting is
almost as intriguing as the lively group of characters whose paths cross through
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fifty years and love. With a European back drop that no one can resist and the twist
of a backward-moving love story, this book quickly became my favorite read and
was hard to put down.
Cassie White, class of 2016
Nichols, Wallace J.
Blue Mind
Blue Mind is a fascinating book about why humans experience a connection to the
ocean and about the science behind what occurs in the brain when we are in or near
the ocean. Buying a house on the beach for a million more dollars than a house
that does not have an ocean view proves that somehow, we all wish to experience
the calmness of the ocean. Wallace J. Nichols also discusses the important issues
regarding the need to save the ocean’s ecosystem, arguing that people need to have
an emotional connection to the ocean in order to be active about saving it. The
scientific reasons behind why the ocean is so appealing to us are very interesting. I
would recommend this book to anyone who experiences a connection to the ocean
and is inspired by marine biology.
Caroline Oudet, class of 2018
Nijkamp, Marieke
This Is Where It Ends
This Is Where It Ends depicts the trauma of a school shooting. When one of their
peers turns on their school in hopes for revenge, the surviving students are left to
fend for themselves among the death and destruction. Telling the story from the
perspective of four different students both inside and outside of the school, along
with timestamps and tweets, Marieke Nijkamp is able to create a heart-wrenching,
suspenseful, and realistic novel. I recommend this for anyone looking for a morbid
but fantastic thriller.
Trinity Rollins, class of 2018
O’Brien, Caragh M.
The Vault of Dreamers
I enjoyed this book because it puts an interesting twist on school and dreams.
The book showed a society that was very different from our own. I could not stop
reading this book until the very end.
Rose Clark, class of 2018
Ogawa, Yoko
Revenge
This is a collection of eleven short stories that are subtly interwoven, one with
another; they’re sad and haunting and nightmarish all at once. A character in the
background of one reappears as a central figure later, and you’ll find yourself
creeped out by a cupcake shop without even fully understanding why.
Eric Dawson, Faculty
Orwell, George
1984
1984 by George Orwell, is a classic story about a government-controlled dystopian
society. Winston Smith, the main character in this novel, seems to be the only sane
person his city, which is controlled by the government, more specifically, by Big
Brother. There are surveillance cameras in every corner of every house, street,
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and store. There are also signs scattered around the city stating phrases like: ‘Big
Brother is ALWAYS watching you.’ Basically, you are always being watched by
Big Brother. This is my favorite book because I can often relate to Winston. He is
determined and passionate, and he is willing to break the rules for the people he
loves. As the story continues, we can really see Winston grow as a character. The
ending is one of my favorites as well. I am a big sucker for plot twists and if you
are too, I highly recommend this story. There is even a reality-TV show, called
Big Brother, based on this thrilling book. This story is for all audiences. There is
suspense, sci-fi, romance and even glimpses of comedy! Next time you are looking
for an addicting, well-written, and intelligent book, try 1984 by George Orwell!
Monica Royal, class of 2018
Orwell, George
1984
1984 is a fantastic novel that I believe every person should read at one point in
time or another. I love the book because of its many themes related to the human
desire for freedom, the power of surveillance, and the impact of totalitarianism
on human relationships in this world. 1984 also addresses the many dangers of
a society where an omniscient and seemingly omnipotent being is feared like a
god. Particularly, the way Big Brother bends reality in its favor through changing
history is alarming and its effect on the “proles” is shockingly similar to our reality.
I also enjoy the subplots of Winston and Julia’s romance, and I find the whole
concept of “newspeak” and the destruction of language as a tool for dissent as
being unique and unexpected. The cherry on top of this story is the ending, which
is by far my favorite twist, but I won’t dare spoil it.
Tucker Hamilton, class of 2018
Paolini, Christopher
Brisingr
In the third installment of this riveting series following Eragon and his dragon
Saphira, Christopher Paolini weaves a suspenseful story about magic, politics,
and young adulthood set in a medieval world. While the previous two novels in
the series focused mainly on Eragon’s training, this book sees him in the middle
of several fights for his life. He is forced to re-evaluate his allegiances to various
rulers all while preparing for the final battle against the dictator who rules the
Empire. For all lovers of fantasy, this book is for you.
Ryan Hogan, class of 2018
Patterson, James
Zoo
I really liked this book because it is action-packed. It had a lot of mysteries and
parts were I did not want to stop reading. I also started watching the show to see
the differences and similarities.
Venus Montesinos, class of 2019
Paulsen, Gary
Hatchet
Hatchet by Gary Paulson is a riveting book that takes the reader deep into the wild.
After being stranded by an airplane crash in Canadian wilderness, Brian Robeson
must use only a hatchet to survive. Struggling to cope with a family secret, Brian
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must take on whatever the wild can throw at him. Tornadoes, porcupines, and even
moose attacks give Brian the fight of his life.
Jack Moldenhauer, class of 2018
Pessl, Marisha NightFilm
Night Film follows the story of one divorced and alcoholic journalist, relegated to
the civilian world of readers as a result of one article gone wrong. The article that
ruined his life also traps him from his life: his family, his little girl, and his career.
So on the night that Ashley Cordova, the beautiful and brilliant daughter of famous
horror-film director, Stanley Cordova, goes missing, journalist Scott McGrath
becomes the last person to see her alive; he becomes obsessed, searching high
and low to piece together the story that could redeem him. This book is too like
a dream to be read at night. You might catch yourself blurring the lines between
fiction and reality. Are you sure that picture hanging on your wall didn’t move?
Paula Petit-Molina, class of 2016
Picoult, Jodi
The Pact
The Pact is a book that I think you will want to put on your shelf. It takes a classic
tale of young love and breathes new life into it. The perspective flips from present
to past. The title refers to a suicide pact that went wrong. To learn more, you’ll
have to go and read the book!
Erica Seff, class of 2016
Pinker, Steven
The Sense of Style
In many ways, this book is an homage to, update of, and protest against Strunk and
White’s The Elements of Style, long the standard for writers. Pinker aims to update
some no-longer relevant advice, reaffirm what’s still non-negotiable, and dispense
with those rules that are based on a faulty knowledge of usage, and so, ultimately,
this is, like its predecessor, a guide for writers. Pinker’s prose exemplifies all
that he advocates, and he lightens the mood by including some hilarious, even
appalling examples that don’t! It’s a fun read for anyone who loves writing and
language.
Ruth Burnham, Faculty
Quammen, David
Monster of God
Despite the title, this book is not religious, although it does explore Leviathan’s
real-world roots: lions, bears, and tigers… oh my! Rather, this book represents
journalist David Quammen’s sophisticated inquiry into the role of “the maneating predator in the jungles of history and the mind.” Once a significant threat
to humans, populations of carnivorous animals powerful enough to kill (and eat)
a human being continue to shrink from hunting and deforestation. For his treatise,
Quammen traversed the globe to speak with some of the last people on Earth to
live side-by-side with these predators: aborigines in northern Australia who retain
ancestral rights to hunt saltwater crocodiles from canoes, inhabitants of stark
Siberia who frequently lose dogs to marauding tigers, cattle herders in India who
are stalked by Asiatic lions, and Romanian shepherds who defend their flocks from
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brown bears. Along the way, Quammen candidly explores these people’s feelings
about their deadly neighbors and ponders modern-day conservation quandaries.
I found enough fodder in this book to create an Ethics Day seminar based on its
ideas. This book appeals to the conservationist, globetrotter, anthropologist, and
inquirer within all of us.
Jonathan Ort, class of 2017
Quinn, Daniel
Ishmael
“With man gone, will there be hope for the gorilla?” Ever wonder what animals
think about our relationship with the natural world? How about other cultural
perspectives? If so, Ishmael is the book for you as it is a spiritual adventure into
the mind of what it means to live in the West and draws some conclusions about
the values that subconsciously laden our minds. The premise of the book is a
discussion between a human (the pupil) and a gorilla (the teacher). The gorilla
pushes the man to examine his existence and the societal messages he is sent with
what he should do with his life. Reading this book is a transformative experience;
it is a book that you will not soon forget. Note: It pairs nicely with Pearl Jam’s
album Yield as the book was the inspiration to the band while the wrote that album,
an inspiration that we can easily hear in the song, “Do the Evolution.”
Wesley Ballantyne, Faculty
Racculia, Kate
Bellweather Rhapsody
This novel recounts a strange and captivating mystery. In the early 1980s a young
girl named Minnie witnesses a murder in the grand old Bellweather hotel. Nobody
knew it then, but this event would shape not only the rest of her life, but also the
life of the hotel. Fast forward fifteen years later to a time when Minnie decides to
return to the scene of the crime. It also happens to be the weekend that the hotel
hosts an exclusive statewide conference for high-school musicians. Statewide
brings interesting characters, including musical prodigy Jill and her vile mother
(who also heads up the conference). When Jill goes missing, there are plenty of
people who might be responsible. Drama, secrets, and memories all come together
to an unpredictable and suspenseful conclusion.
Amy Pelman, Faculty
Ratliff, Ben
Every Song Ever
With this book, Ben Ratliff presents a music appreciation primer for the digital age.
In our world of earbuds, iTunes, Spotify, streaming, and always being plugged-in,
we have an embarrassment of riches, which means we can almost literally find
anything we want and immediately listen to it. Of course, that power also means
that we rarely take time to choose what we listen to and to actually listen to it.
Here, Ratliff teaches us to slow down and become more mindful about the way
we listen to music. Instead of chapters based on genres or chronological periods,
he organizes his material on “signal musical traits”: silence, slowness, density,
texture, etc. And as a bonus, each chapter ends with a playlist, which Ratliff also
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has cleverly reproduced as one fifteen-hour Spotify playlist.
Matt Bentley, Faculty
Remarque, Erich Maria
All Quiet on the Western Front
I really enjoyed reading this book because of its honest and unfiltered look at war.
It is about a teenage boy who is a soldier fighting on the German side in World War
I. Unlike many other depictions of war, this book describes the grit, pain, and loss
of war as well as the valor and comradeship. Also, it humanized the German side
in World War I, and it shows how in many cases our “enemies” in that war were
simply boys who got swept along. The fact that in the 1930s, the book was banned
and burned by the Nazi government in Germany speaks volumes to its honesty and
significance. Defy Hitler, and give it a read!
Max Lewis, class of 2019
Rothfuss, Patrick
TheNameoftheWind
The Name of The Wind by Patrick Rothfuss is a remarkable story about an
innkeeper who tends to the Waystone Inn. No one knows who he is, and he rarely
contributes to the conversations of the inn. When a scribe named Chronicler arrives
at the inn, he finds the truth that Kote, the elderly innkeeper, is actually Kvothe the
legend. After pestering Kote endlessly, Chronicler finally convinces Kote to tell his
life story that is such a famous mystery. This story told by Kvothe is an incredible
tale of mystery, magic, horror, and adventure. You should read it. Seriously.
Sofie Zook, class of 2018
Rowell, Rainbow
Eleanor and Park
Eleanor and Park is not your typical love story. Eleanor, a sophomore, struggles
with her home life as she is forced to live with her mother’s abusive husband,
Ritchie. Eleanor lives in terror and doesn’t even have her own toothbrush or
clothes that fit. Park, also a sophomore, is a self-conscious boy who lives with two
loving parents and his younger brother. Even with very different lives, Park and
Eleanor develop an incredible bond. When Park takes a punch in order to defend
Eleanor against bullies, their love grows strong. Eleanor even gains the confidence
that she needs to stand up to her step-father. In a world where everything is against
them, Eleanor and Park show that love can prevail.
Sibel Fite, class of 2016
Rowell, Rainbow
Eleanor and Park
The book, Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell, is a poignant love story about
two teenagers who defy all odds to be together. Eleanor and Park, two high-school
misfits bond on the bus and are able to escape the hardships of their lives together.
You will not be able to put this book down or stop crying when it ends.
Sydney Gart, class of 2018
Rowell, Rainbow
Eleanor and Park
The book Eleanor and Park, by Rainbow Rowell, is a fantastic, intriguing,
relatable, romance story that I strongly suggest to any high-school student who is
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interested in a teenage-romance novel. Two quiet characters who seem to be totally
different end up sitting next to each other everyday on the bus. Once they figure
out that they enjoy the same music and comic books, a relationship begins to form
that nobody predicted to occur. Rainbow Rowell writes the story by switching off
between both characters narrating, which makes the novel very interesting and
appealing to the reader. Eleanor and Park is a very enjoyable read.
Lauren Eppich, class of 2018
Ruby, Laura
Bone Gap
Set in the small town of Bone Gap, this dreamy and intriguing story revolves
around shy, quiet Finn, his brother Sean, and Roza, who appeared in their lives one
day and then disappeared just as mysteriously. Finn is the only one who knows
that Roza was kidnapped; that she didn’t leave of her own accord. But because he
can’t give anyone details of the event, no one believes him. This is also the story
of Finn falling in love with a girl in town named Petey, and how one can’t escape
judgment, scrutiny, or anything else when you live in a town like Bone Gap.
Amy Pelman, Faculty
Sacks, Oliver
Musicophilia
Almost everyone can relate to the emotions expressed and released when
interacting with music, either by creating or listening to it. In Musicophilia, the
brilliant Oliver Sacks explains why such a deep and sincere passion for music
exists essentially universally in humanity. His anecdotes from patients with
incredible conditions imbue the reader with a much greater understanding of
the human condition. His chapter on Williams Syndrome, a condition where
individuals have very low IQs but are also incredibly loquacious and musical, is
outstanding. For any musicians who wishes to have a more profound connection to
their instrument(s), or any person who enjoys listening to music (everyone, I would
suspect!), I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
Joseph Ort, class of 2017
Sacks, Oliver
Musicophilia
Musicophilia is a book touched me in many ways not only because I am a
musician but also because I value good stories. I was drawn into the work of
Oliver Sacks and how he helped so many people through the power of music.
In this book, Oliver Sacks uses his knowledge of neurology and knowledge of
music, as well as using his life work in merging the two to help cure patients
of mental illnesses through music. For example, the book explores music as a
result of hallucinations, seizures, sever amnesia, and much more. Not only is this
exploration informative, but it also reveals a touching journey of patients who find
solace by using music as a medicine for sometimes-incurable conditions. Highly
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recommended!
Ben West, class of 2018
Sagan, Dorion and Eric Schneider
Into the Cool
C.P. Snow in his essay “The Two Cultures,” wrote that the inability to describe the
Second Law of Thermodynamics was a form of ignorance comparable with never
having read a work of Shakespeare. Sagan is the son of astronomer Carl Sagan
and biologist Lynn Margulis, and Schneider is a NOAA scientist; together they
write the most compelling account of thermodynamics and its connection to the
underlying reasons for life and purpose. If you have ever asked the question “why,”
this book is for you. Into the Cool is a joy to read (not too heavy), but you probably
do need to be a nerd to really enjoy this.
Rand Harrington, Head of School
Sanderson, Brandon
The Steelheart Series
The recently released third addition to this incredible series only adds to its allure.
Do you like romance? Mystery? Action? Science Fiction? Check, check, check,
and check. This series has it all while also being well-written and fast-paced, the
kind of summer read that everyone would love. It follows the protagonist David as
he embarks on an epic quest to save his world in the most anti-hero hero book ever
written. Average people take on super-heroes in this post-apocalyptic wasteland,
with twists and turns on every page. It’s the kind of book that just sticks with you
and makes you beg for more. Just read it.
Jarrek Holmes, class of 2016
Sepetys, Ruta
Between Shades of Gray
Lina Vilkas has lived in Lithuania all her life until the day that the NKVD show
up at her doorstep to take her from everything she knew. This book was one of
my favorite reads because of how well it portrays the reactions of people going
through a tragedy. The book shows in many places the importance of family, and
that although they may make us angry, they would die for us. The book reveals
the cruelty in humans: how we can just dismiss one another as the same and allow
whoever is given the upper hand to act as they please? In times of trouble people
look out for themselves and their own. Sadness is riddled throughout the book,
though I find it only increases empathy and reality to the story because life is sad
and cruel; no matter how old someone is, anyone can relate to that person on some
personal level. I’m definitely planning on rereading it sometime in the near future.
Melanie Hancock, class of 2019
Sepetys, Ruta
Salt to the Sea
Salt to the Sea is one of my all-time favorite books. It takes place in during World
War II, and manages to present the conflict in a whole new way. It follows four
young, unreliable narrators, each with a different homeland. Emilia is a Polish
girl with nowhere to turn; Alfred is a German solider lost in a delusion; Joana is a
Lithuanian nurse-turned-refugee; Florian is a Prussian with a very valuable secret.
Salt to the Sea will break your heart. I recommend it to anyone who likes war
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stories.
Siena Fite, class of 2017
Sepetys, Ruta
Salt to the Sea
Salt to the Sea is a captivating historical-fiction novel from the perspective of four
different adolescents during the end of World War II. Each of them with their own
pasts and stories are brought together on a ship called Wilhelm Gustloff as they
flee from the Soviet advance. I found this novel extremely interesting and moving.
Little do most people know, the sinking of Wilhelm Gustloff was the single
greatest maritime tragedy in history with around 9,000 casualties. Warning: you
may want to read with a box of tissues close at hand.
Caitlin Vickers, class of 2017
Shenk, David
The Immortal Game
Shenk’s masterpiece explores the game of chess, and his exploration is nothing
short of breathtaking. The enduring existence of chess has imbued cultures from
the Muslim Empire to feudal Europe to Cold War superpowers with themes of
hierarchy, discipline, and supreme strategy. Shenk tracks the cultural history of
the game, analyzing when and how it spread. Remarkably, the rules of chess
have remained almost exactly the same for centuries. The book seeks to offer an
explanation for that permanence, and to answer why chess has captivated humanity
for so long. In many ways, chess appeals to humanity in elemental ways, as Shenk
discusses. At the end of every chapter, Shenk also includes one or two moves
from the “Immortal Game,” perhaps the most exquisite game of chess ever played
(Adolf Anderssen v. Lionel Kieseritzky in 1851). Over the course of the book, the
Immortal Game is played out, and the sacrifices, ploys, and genius of both players
leave the reader stunned. Shenk’s analysis of a game that has transcended its
“entertainment-status” to leave an indelible impact on humanity is both trenchant
and enthralling.
Joseph Ort, class of 2017
Skurzynski, Gloria
Devastation
After the earth’s population has been decimated by natural disasters and disease,
the remaining people live in domed cities to protect themselves from the outside
world. Corbin, a teenage boy, has been chosen to fight a bloodless war in eighteen
days in order to win possession of the only inhabitable place left on earth that is
left undomed. This book pull you in immediately and keep you guessing as the
Corbin prepares for the war and deals with its after-effects.
Logan Ossentjuk, class of 2017
Slaughter, Karin
Pretty Girls
Karin Slaughter is new to the crime-novel scene, but nonetheless she manages to
captivate her readers from her very first sentence. Pretty Girls tells the tale of two
estranged sisters, Claire and Lydia, torn apart by the disappearance of their older
sister Julia almost twenty years ago, sisters who are brought back into each other’s
lives through the tragic death of Claire’s husband, Paul. Now Lydia and Claire
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are forced to reconnect, and through that connection discover the secrets that link
Paul’s untimely demise to Julia’s disappearance almost a quarter-century ago,
shocking the reader to the very core. I recommend this book to anyone interested
in murder-mystery novels; however, this book does contain mature themes, so I
would not recommend this to anyone under the age of fifteen.
Victoria Laws, class of 2017
Sloan, Robin
Mr. Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore
If you like books, secret codes, mysterious cults, adventure, modern prose, the
hipster subculture of San Francisco, Google, and all-things “geek-y” and “tech-y,”
you will be drawn into this book. Is it a literary masterpiece? No. Is it a whimsical,
fun, and interesting read? Yes.
Katie Thomas, Faculty
Sparks, Nicholas
The Last Song
The Last Song is about a rebellious seventeen-year-old girl who finds herself
disconnected from her family after her parents went through a hard divorce. After
being forced to spend the summer with her father who is facing a life-threatening
illness, she not only learns a lot about herself, but also rekindles her relationship
with her family as they bond over their love of music. This book takes the reader
through the heart-warming and melancholy journey of a maturing young adult who
is finally able to find her way with the help of her friends and family.
Natalie Bronsdon, class of 2018
Sparks, Nicholas
The Last Song
The Last Song takes place in a small beach town in North Carolina where Ronnie
and her brother, Jonah, are sent for the summer to spend with their father who
left their mom and home years ago. During the summer, Ronnie struggles with
forgiving her father and re-finding her passion for the piano, which she swore
she would never to play again. Ronnie and Will, a handsome, rich southern boy,
mistakenly meet one day and soon become infatuated with each other. During
the summer, Ronnie’s remains strong and true to herself even with the many
odds stacked against her. I recommend this to anyone who is looking for a heartwrenching romance book!
Claire Hutchison, class of 2018
Sparks, Nicholas
The Longest Ride
The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks is set in North Carolina, both in present time
and back in the 1960s. When the paths of a college girl named Sophia and a bull
rider named Luke cross at a party, they have no idea what is to come for them:
adventure, love, and secrets. Throughout this time, Ira Levinson, now an old man,
gets into a car crash. While holding on for his life, he reflects on his true love,
Ruth, and their love story. Both couples are put in tough situations and forced to
make hard decisions to protect their love. This is a great tale of how love trumps
all, and how if you truly love someone, you can get through anything together. I
loved this book. I never wanted to take a break from it and could not put it down
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Both relationships are inspiring in this heart-warming, emotional, and magical tale.
Claire Hutchison, class of 2018
Stedman, M.L.
The Light between Oceans
I would recommend this book because it was really interesting and fun to read. It
takes place in 1926 and is about a lighthouse keeper and his family who all live on
tiny remote island hundreds of miles off the coast of Australia. They have always
wanted a family, so one day when a boat washes up on their island with a baby girl
on it, they must decide whether to keep her or to bring her back to the mainland to
try and find her real mother.
Marin Halverson, class of 2017
Stevenson, Robert Louis
Kidnapped
I loved reading this book. The language was difficult at times to understand, but
that little bit of high diction was wonderfully challenging. The story follows a
teenage guy on trying times and adventures. As we meet several complicated and
genuine characters, the story progresses with our main character evolving and
growing wise.
Beau Hanson, class of 2017
Stevenson, Robert Louis
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
This book displays the extremes of the human psyche. By day the main character is
as smart as they come, a scientist who slaves away in the pursuit of discovery. By
night, he is an ill-mannered criminal with little regard to the life of his fellow man.
His strange case of alternate personalities is based on a true story about a real man
with similar personalities. The book is thrilling as Dr. Jekyll tries to cope with his
second life while retaining his staid image to the world around him. Read through
the eyes of a man retelling his account of the story, the reader gets a firsthand view
of the inquisitive Dr. Jekyll and his dastardly alternate personality Mr. Hyde.
Charlie McKissick, class of 2018
Stewart, Trenton Lee
The Mysterious Benedict Society
The reason I really like this book is because at the beginning you have no idea
what the “tests” were for and then you learn why they are needed. If you put down
the book, you will be in a state of curiosity where you have to read more. The book
is relatively long, but the suspense will make you fly through the book wanting
more. Luckily, there are two more books in the series to follow the journeys the
kids take and the puzzles they must figure out.
Andrew Goldblatt, class of 2019
Stiefvater, Maggie
The Raven Boys
The Raven Boys is the first book of the four-book series, The Raven Cycle, that
captivated my attention from the first page. A girl, Blue, has been told from a very
young age that if she kisses her true love, he will die. For sixteen years she has
kept her distance until she meets Gansey and his group of friends who go to the
prestigious all-boys prep school, Aglionby. The book intertwines romance, history,
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fantasy, and mystery together in a wonderful first book that I would recommend to
anyone looking to get hooked into another world.
Sadie Mauger, class of 2018
Stiefvater, Maggie
The Raven Boys
The Raven Boys is the perfect book for anyone interested in fantasy and, yes, a
little bit of romance. The basic premise of the book is that Blue, a non-psychic in
a family of clairvoyants, will kiss her true love and he will consequently die. On
Saint Mark’s Eve, she accompanies her aunt to the corpse roads, where her aunt
can see those who will die in the next year. For the first time, she sees someone: a
boy named Gansey. Gansey goes to the prestigious Aglionby Academy, and he and
his friends are on a quest to find Glendower, an ancient Welsh king. I recommend
this book (and series) to anyone interested in a story with complex characters, plot
threads that weave together to create an overarching story, and myth and magic
that keep you on your feet.
Jennifer Weiske, class of 2019
Steifvater, Maggie
The Scorpio Races
I would highly recommend The Scorpio Races by Maggie Steifvater. It’s a great
book with a combination of action, romance, and some elements of magic. The
plot is well thought out and is intriguing as well.
Cecily Coors, class of 2019
Swift, Jonathan
Gulliver’s Travels
Looking around for a “classic” to read, I rummaged through the dusty shelves
of books until I came across Gulliver’s Travels. This book came to me years ago
as a gift, back when my parents tried to expose me to some must-read literature.
Despite being intimidated by its reputation as an “old piece of literature” it was
surprisingly easy to get into and was not that different from modern-day English.
Gulliver’s Travels is a collection of three stories published in 1726. Jonathan Swift
presents Gulliver’s Travels as a compilation of tales told by Lemuel Gulliver.
Stranded and lost in worlds where humans are no longer the masters of the
realm, Gulliver tells his perspective of being different from the rest of society.
He experiences realms where horses are the masters of nature, and worlds where
giants rule the world. The first tale, the most famous of the four, has Gulliver
start as a shipwrecked surgeon, stranded on the island of Lilliput. Surrounded
by miniature-sized people, the protagonist tries to gain trust with the indigenous
population and survive. Each tale satirizes our everyday society and the way we
treat those who are different, letting us question and think about how we act and
treat society’s “others.” If you are interested in satires and how our society treats
those who are different, this is a must-read.
Alexander Hsia, class of 2018
Tahir, Sabaa
Ember in the Ashes
In the midst of an all-powerful empire, two of the most contrasting citizens will
be brought together in a fight for survival. Laia, a common villager with a family
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ripped apart by the brutal empire, seeks to find the rebellion in an effort to save
her criminal brother, while Elias, a skilled but disloyal student training within
a military academy, seeks freedom. This story is a tremendous dual-narration,
written for anyone who enjoys action, romance, and marvelously complex plot
lines.
Trinity Rollins, class of 2018
Templeton, Julia
The Deepest Cut
The Deepest Cut follows sixteen-year-old Riley Williams as she tries to restart her
life in Scotland. Riley has been able to communicate with the dead ever since her
mother’s death, a death Riley feels responsible for. Riley meets nineteen-year-old
Ian MacKinnon, a ghost cursed to roam the living. Riley forms a friendship with
Ian and is willing to do whatever she can to end the curse that ties him to Earth.
The Deepest Cut is a quick, fun read that combines humor, romance, and suspense
very well. It is for the romantic at heart and will leave you wanting to read more.
Luckily, The Deepest Cut is Book One of The MacKinnon Curse trilogy.
Ashley Hernandez, class of 2017
Twain, Mark
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Humorous, whimsical, and audacious, Mark Twain’s Adventures of Tom Sawyer
is the perfect novel for anyone wishing to read a humorous and light-hearted
book. Tom’s wild ideas constantly kept me reading, and will keep many readers
engrossed in the book. I would highly recommend it.
Nicholas Krauss, class of 2018
Twain, Mark
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a novel for anyone looking for an
adventure. Following Huck, a runaway teenager, the reader is taken on a journey,
seeing both the good and evil in humanity, encompassing discussions of morality
and slavery. As one of the most contested novels in America, this book is a must
read for anyone looking for something to talk about to friends or teachers. Whether
you choose to read this novel for the moral discussions it creates or just for an
adventure, this book is for you.
Nick Krauss, class of 2018
Umrigar, Thrity
The Space Between Us
This is a must-read-soon book. The prose is wonderful; the characters are
compelling; and the portrait of modern-day India – replete with class divisions
that seem cavernous and irreconcilable – is powerful. Set in Bombay, two women
(and their daughter/grand daughter) have integrally connected lives. Their loyalty
to one another is silent but fierce. They share a seemingly unbreakable bond,
until, unfortunately, that bond is violated. This is a tender story that is touching,
distressing, and most of all, memorable. If you enjoy vivid descriptions and
beautifully crafted writing, you will find yourself recommending this book to
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others as soon as you finish the last page.
Katie Thomas, Faculty
Verghese, Abraham
Cutting for Stone
Cutting for Stone tells the story of twin brothers Marion and Shiva Stone, born
from the clandestine union between an Indian nun and British medical doctor in
Ethiopia. Author Abraham Verghese, an Ethiopian-born medical doctor by training,
chronicles the boys’ lives after being orphaned at birth and their rich and complex
relationship spanning more than fifty years in both Ethiopia and New York City.
Verghese describes Addis Ababa so vibrantly that one can feel the sun’s heat and
smell both car exhaust and freshly-baked injera in the same paragraph. But what
was most remarkable to me was how Verghese could describe medical procedures
in incredibly rich yet simple detail. From a personal standpoint, I’ve always loved
the immigrant story, and this book taps into my father’s own journey from medical
school in the Philippines to New York City.
Genevieve Marcelino, Faculty
Vonnegut, Kurt
Breakfast of Champions
Breakfast of Champions is Vonnegut’s funniest novel (probably) and probably
the funniest book I’ve read. If all you’ve read is his short novel SlaughterhouseFive and if you liked it, then Breakfast of Champions is a good introduction to his
other stuff (all of which you should read too). It’s very different but still has that
trademark awesome Vonnegut style. It’s simply amazing.
Mark Wittmer, class of 2016
Vonnegut, Kurt
The Sirens of Titan
I really enjoyed reading The Sirens of Titan this year in English class, but know
that if I had read it outside of class, I would have loved it too! Vonnegut creates
a fun but also slightly pessimistic world set in some vague period between the
Second World War and the third Great Depression. Space travel, mind reading,
friendships, and ethical dilemmas are all wrapped into one pretty cool book.
Sarah Lawrence, class of 2016
Vonnegut, Kurt
The Sirens of Titan
The Sirens of Titan covers all the bases of a classic drama. It has action, love,
betrayal, and about four pounds of creativity. In the modern world, books targeted
at teens sound too cheesy and silly. They all have the same kind of “secret
brotherhood” and “accidental intruder” and “mean leader person who doesn’t
trust the newcomer;” Sirens of Titan does not. This book is what would happen
if Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy were written in 1959 and were still actually
interesting to read. It’s pretty good.
Justin Reeves, class of 2017
Walls, Jeannette
The Glass Castle
The Glass Castle is a memoir by Jeannette Walls. It examines her young life,
including her parents, her poor financial state, what love truly means, and how she
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overcame her young struggles to achieve her dreams and create a new definition
for her life. Readers will discover a world that they never knew existed, one
that will make them grateful for the little things they are blessed with. I would
recommend this book to anyone who is looking for insight into a life and a true
story that is a little out of the ordinary.
Grace Lampert, class of 2017
Walter, Jess
Beautiful Ruins
During Spring Break of 2016 I read Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter, and it is an
amazing, fun, stimulating read. The story follows the point of view of three main
characters and skips throughout time. The main setting is on a small island off
the coast of Italy and also in LA, California. The author does a very good job
at incorporating accurate and fascinating history into the novel. The novel is a
romance, but it is more centered on complex character development and revealing
the affects of time on love and relationships. I whipped through it in two days
and never wanted it to end! I highly recommend it for a summer read because it
riveting and complex yet still easy and fun to read.
Chloe Hancock, class of 2016
Warrick, Joby
Black Flags: The Rise of ISIS
Joby Warrick is a reporter for the Washington Post and a Pulitzer Prize-Winning
author. In Black Flags, he tells the curious story of the founding of ISIS (the
Islamic State), which has so confounded the world with its striking effectiveness
and brutality as a terrorist organization with statehood aspirations. The narrative
is really all about a Jordanian thug, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, whose temerity
combined with the mistakes of the Bush and Obama administrations leads him
to become a terrorist leader. The book reads easily and quickly. Joby Warrick’s
Middle East reporting gives him an intimate view of the workings of governments
and the ways of those who want to undermine them. The Jordanians come in as the
heroes of this story. Be aware that there are descriptions of horrific violence in this
book.
Eric Chandler, Faculty
Warrick, Joby
The Triple Agent
This book is an incredible spy thriller that you won’t be able to put down. It is
about an actual CIA operation in Afghanistan, in which they tried to turn an AlQaeda doctor into a CIA mole. They thought that they had turned him when he sent
them a video of a meeting he was in, but it turned out to be an evil Al-Qaeda plot
that ended with the doctor detonating a bomb at a CIA base in Khost, Afghanistan.
It is a sad, but incredible story to read that also provides some insight into the CIA
mission in the Middle East.
Mark Jaschke, class of 2016
Weir, Andy
The Martian
This action-packed story explores the possibility of space travel to Mars. Against
all odds, Mark Watney has to fight to survive on the desolate red planet. After
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a giant windstorm forces the crew’s evacuation, Mark is abandoned when he
was presumed dead. Miraculously, he survives the winds to live another Sol
(Martian day). The issue is that he needs to survive many more Sols if he has any
hope of being rescued. Left with limited recourses, little food, and no means of
communication to Earth, Watney feels that the millions of miles that stand between
him and home seem even farther. Follow Watney’s thoughts as he tries to do the
impossible; surviving Mars. This book is brilliantly written such that it closes the
gap between reality and sci-fi. Even though travel to Mars is still an idea for the
future, this book incorporates the real science and technology that will ultimately
be used when visiting Mars. This book is packed with science, yet it is easy to
follow. Additionally, author Andy Weir writes with great humor. For me, reading
is almost a chore, as typically it is hard for me to get into the book. Immediately,
though, I found that I could not put this book down. I’d say that this is a perfect
read for anyone, as it is humorous, adventurous, exhilarating, and fascinating.
Kohl Terry, class of 2018
Weir, Andy
The Martian
The Martian, a widely known science fiction book, is a perfect blend of realistic
science and a classic science-fiction adventure that remains rooted in logic.
Anybody interested in space travel, legitimate future technology, or an incredible
display of human grit and spirit will find this book is encompasses all of that. Mark
Watney’s humor and wit contribute to the entertaining storyline. Prepare to be
dragged into a story that raises the stakes to the last page.
Gavin Rolls, class of 2019
Wiesel, Elie
Night
Night is a personal memoir of the nightmare that Elie Wiesel, then a young boy
from Transylvania, experienced throughout the holocaust. In a very detailed story;
he describes the death of his family and his change from an innocent boy to a
traumatized man. Through beautiful writing and heart-wrenching details, Night is
an unforgettable piece of literature that will leave you in awe.
Tim Saffold, class of 2018
Williams, Beatriz
A Hundred Summers
A love story set in the 1930s that is a perfect read for the beach or to make you feel
like you’re at the beach. The book follows estranged lovers as it jumps between
the “present day” 1938 when they are reunited and back to a time six years earlier
as they fall in love. The story continued to surprise me as I fell in love with the
characters. The story is simple yet new and exciting; it’s worth every page.
Cassie White, class of 2016
Wilson, August
King Hedley II
If you enjoyed reading Fences by August Wilson sophomore year, then you would
like August Wilson’s King Hedley II. August Wilson dives into African American
culture in the 1920s. It is one of August Wilson’s darker plays. It follows King
Hedley, an ex-convict, and his life after jail. The story follows King who is selling
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stolen refrigerator to buy a video store. August Wilson is one of my favorite
authors and playwrights. I suggest reading it and, if you can, see the play!
Erica Seff, class of 2016
Wodehouse, P.G.
The Code of the Woosters
Have you ever read anything by P.G. Wodehouse, the creator of Jeeves and
Wooster? (There was a series on PBS starring Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie.) If
not, you are missing one of the great civilized pleasures. His books are very funny,
with wonderful characters and amusing plots. Not deep or dark, instead they are
light and frothy and easy to read, but at the same time you feel richer for having
read them. He was a very prolific writer, and not all of his books involve Jeeves
and Wooster; there’s a series about a man named Psmith (the “P” is silent) and
another about a place called Blandings, for instance. The Code of the Woosters is a
personal favorite. Try it – you might become an addict like me.
David Rollman, Faculty
Woolf, Virginia
To the Lighthouse
Once I read this novel for AP Lit with Mr. Batt, it became one of my favorite
books, one of the most beautifully written I have ever read. It follows a family’s
visit to their summer home near a beach and a lighthouse, and skips around in
time to the future and past. It doesn’t involve much action or a strong plot line,
and instead is based on thoughts and perceptions of different characters, making it
an extremely interesting read. Woolf is an incredible author and has a beautifully
poetic way of writing, even in a novel. Ultimately, this is one of the most beautiful
and gently intriguing novels I have ever read, and I would definitely recommend it.
Carlin Laney, class of 2016
Wurts, Janny and Raymond E. Feist
Daughter of Empire
Daughter of the Empire is set in a feudal Japanese society and follows the story of
Mara of the Acoma, a young woman suddenly thrust into power of a House Acoma
after the deaths of her father and brother. She recruits bands of gray warriors
(soldiers without a house) and brings her household back to power as she escapes
the death traps set by House Minwanabi, her mortal enemy. It is truly amazing, and
I recommend it as well as its sequels, Servant of the Empire and Mistress of the
Empire, to anyone who loves good fiction.
Mira Subramanian, class of 2019
Zevin, Gabrielle
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
A.J. Fickery owns a bookstore on an island off the coast of New England. Our
introduction to him leads us to believe that he is the local curmudgeon. He lost
his wife, his bookstore is floundering, and his prized rare book of Edgar Allen
Poe poems has been stolen. However, a mysterious delivery left in his bookstore
changes his attitude and his life. Books play a metaphorical role throughout this
story, which takes some unpredictable and sometimes delightful turns.
Sarah Mitchell, Faculty
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The Reader’s Bill of Rights
The right to not read
The right to skip pages
The right to not finish
The right to reread
The right to read anything
The right to escapism
The right to read anywhere
The right to browse
The right to read out loud
The right to not defend your tastes
― Daniel Pennac
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