Need something fun and relaxing to do on your weekend or during your upcoming summer break? Swap your screen time with these page-turning plots! From fantasies that help you escape reality to horror stories that send chills down your spine, through a google form, your peers have sent so many book recommendations for both teachers and students to enjoy, and none of these come with spoiler alerts!
One of the most recommended books on the form was Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling. If you haven’t read it, it’s a fantasy book with amazing world-building that will whisk you away to a domain of dragons, wizards, and magic that will fill your mind with fantastic visuals. Although this book is targeted towards a younger audience, it can be enjoyed by all ages. Student Aadhana Manikandan, grade 7, says that, “Filled with Fantasy, this book includes magical adventures and very real characters as they embark on their journeys in the wizarding world.” The book features amazing characters and has won the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize (Gold Medal), the British Book Awards (Best Book of the Year), and the “Winner of Winners” Blue Peter Book Award 2020.
Another recommendation was Rick Riordan’s books, in general. Rick Riordan has written many books, usually of the fantasy genre, and here is a list: Percy Jackson & the Olympians, The Heroes of Olympus, The Trials of Apollo, The Kane Chronicles, and Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard, plus various companion books and the Tres Navarre mystery series for adults. Apart from the Tres Navarre series, all of his books are based on different types of ancient mythology, and they can all be connected with various characters. The Tres Navarre series is about a person named Jackson “Tres” Navarre, unlicensed private investigator, Tai Chi master, and PhD in medieval studies, as he solves gritty mysteries. His books have won numerous awards, like the Stonewall Book Award for The Hammer of Thor (2017) and multiple Goodreads Choice Awards. There are many different series with different styles of writing, so you have your pick to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a thrilling mystery, then this book’s for you. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is a young adult murder mystery, and follows the adventures of Pippa “Pip” Fitz-Amobi as she investigates cold cases and disappearances in her small, suburban town. The book is part of a longer series of prequels and sequels that continue Pip’s adventures. It has also won the British Book Awards Children’s Fiction Book of the Year (2020).
Another popular book recommended was The Summer I Turned Pretty by K.L. Walther.
Student Rhea Jain, in 6th grade, says that, “If you like a love story with a little bit of drama, then you would like The Summer I Turned Pretty.” The book follows the story of Isabel “Belly” Conklin, who spends every summer at her mother’s friend Susanah’s beach house with Susanah’s sons. As Isabel turns 16, the dynamics in the house shift, with the boys noticing her as a romantic interest.
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, was a really popular recommendation! The book follows the adventures of Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take her sister’s place in a televised fight-to-the-death. This dystopian, sci-fi novel is part of a longer series as well. The book is targeted at a young adult audience, and many have enjoyed it and left positive reviews!
If you’re looking for some historical fiction, then The Nightangle by Kristen Hannah is the way to go! Following the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, during World War II, in which the Nazis occupied France, and their struggles, as well as their resistance. The Book is a #1 New York Times bestseller, a Wall Street Journal Best Book of the Year.
Most of these books can be found at the Fallon Library, but if you’re looking for a couple of exceptions, you can go look at your local Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Half Price Books, or check out the Dublin Library. Wishing you all a Happy Reading!
