Book Talk: 5 Must Reads Before You Graduate High School

“′Classic′ - a book which people praise and don't read.” Mark Twain

A very funny and honest perception of books. In recent years, books have been declining in popularity. Perhaps we’re too entranced by television or other forms of media to read. Or perhaps reading just seems like a boring activity. A waste of time. Whatever the reason may be it is true that many of us aren’t reading. When was the last time you picked up a book outside of English class? Or school in general?

Whatever the reason may be, it rings true that books are an excellent educator and assistant to success. Warren Buffet claims to read 500 pages a day. He states that he devotes about 80% of his time to reading. Bill Gates reads 50 books a year and in 2015, Mark Zuckerberg pledged to read a book every two weeks.

Since grade 10, I have been reading a book every 2 weeks, and to be honest, things haven’t been that bad. From self-discovery books to memoirs and dystopian novels, in this blog, I have compiled a few of my favourite novels from a range of genres and popularity. I hope that some of my book recommendations can spark your interest in reading!

Let's start the list with an easier and faster read. Ready Play One is the starting place if you're not really extremely passionate about books but want to get started. If you’ve seen the Steven Spielberg movie that came out 2 years ago you know what you’re in for. If you haven’t seen the movies READ THE BOOK FIRST. I wouldn’t call it a dystopian novel but it is set in a dystopian society. Everyone lives in a virtual world (because reality is too harsh #EscapismAtItsBest), trying to win a game with an unimaginable prize. Wade Watts, a teenager/ protagonist, embarks on this quest to win the game. A very action-based novel that will keep you hooked till the end. At the same time, it contains many themes and thought-provoking ideas regarding the increasing promoments of technology in our daily lives.

If you have seen this book or would like to check out something similar try EXO, by Fonda Lee. It was nominated for the White Pine Awards in 2018. With a similar setting, character and genre it's definitely something to check out. P.S. It's also by a Canadian author!

Every ‘book’ person should have heard of the classic novel, The Handmaid’s Tale. Its messages and themes have affected the way we look to human rights and society. Two books that will change the way you look at womanhood and even the world. The two novels highlight the darkest corners of our society; the corners our parents protect us from. For many of us, we’ve been privileged enough to bask in the sunlight. However, it is important to recognize the existence of some pressing issues in our world. The Handmaid’s Tale delves into the inequality of the sexes and what could happen if we continue to ignore it.

My Book of Angel, on the other hand, highlights the darkest part of society. From drug usage and human trafficking and prostitution. I would say these two novels are a must-read for every girl going through adolescence. The two novels cover some heavy topics that might not be suitable for readers. For more insight on the Handmaid’s Tale check out TED-Ed’s video.

Quiet: The Power on Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking By Susan Cain

Can introverts be good leadership? Is teamwork actually more effective than working alone? Where does the extrovert ideal come from? Have you ever asked yourself, I wish I was more talkative? I wish I could be as charismatic as him/her/them? If you are an introvert, this is a must-read. If you aren’t an introvert… still, read it. The book covers so much more than just personality. It talks about leadership, the corporate environment and the biases we hold. If you want to be a more efficient person this really is a book to get to know yourself and the way your mind works. If you aspire to be a strong leader this will offer some insightful advice on how the team setting works and how to make the most out of it!