TOP TEN TUESDAY | BOOKS I’D GIVE SOMEONE WHO DOESN’T READ

Hmmm this is a great prompt! I’ve never tried to convert a non-reader to a reader, as being at least somewhat okay with books is kind of a prerequisite to being part of my life. But there are some books I’ve recommended to people who don’t read all that often or ones I would recommend to particular people.

               

The House in the Cerulean Sea would be perfect for someone who likes to be curled up under a cosy blanket with a cup of tea. The Fire Next Time is for someone who cares deeply about social injustice, and who enjoys being challenged. Fierce Invalids is great for readers who have an irreverent streak, who like things that are a bit weird and wacky. Ready Player One is for gamers, particularly ones that aren’t super invested in how our world tends to favour those who already have power.

               

The Fault in Our Stars seems to appeal to pretty much everyone, but particularly those who like to get very invested in a story, who want to feel close to the characters, who enjoy witty banter and who can survive heartbreak. The Uncommon Reader is for those who like to see prominent figures portrayed from another angle, and who can understand a passion for an interest (in this case, reading). The Window Seat is for those who enjoy reading about a wide range of topics, who like to be confronted with some challenging truths about how the world works, and who want to be left with a lot to think about. Agent 21 is for a young adult reader who enjoys fast-paced, plot-driven thrillers. This is a quick, edge-of-your-seat read.

               

I haven’t read Good Omens for over a decade, and I have been made aware that it has some issues with problematic content that I don’t remember from my last read. So consider that a warning. That said, it’s also the funniest books I’ve ever read. It’s got angels, fallen angels (well, one who “didn’t so much fall as saunter vaguely downwards”), the antichrist and the four horsemen of the apocalypse. And yes, it’s the book the TV show was based on, so it’s perfect for anyone who liked that or American Gods. Outlaw Journalist is for the rebel out there, particularly if they’re a rebel who’s a fan of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a lovely, quick read. It is beautifully illustrated, and full of hope. Daisy Jones and the Six is for the music lover, and anyone who likes to know what’s happening in the real lives of famous people. It’s an interesting read, has lots of drama, and is very easy to get into.

Obviously each of these would be for a different type of person. But all of them are excellent, addictive and easy to get into.