Ryan ChartrandHi, my name is Chelsea and I am a book-o-holic. I love beginnings, middles and ends, the anticipation of what happens next, and, of course, the way the pages smell. (Is that only me?) Reading offers a calm escape in today’s fast-paced world, and should not be put on the back burner now that the rigors of
fall quarter are bestowed upon us.
Consuming an amazing book is a rich and rewarding experience that no amount of television or video games can replace. I have found that in the course of my reading career, there are a handful of books that never manage to lose their places as my favorites. It is because of these books that I continue to read, always searching for my next favorite.
With this column, I hope to inspire you to find some favorites of your own, or at least read some of mine. I will do my best to examine great new writers, and interesting new releases, and maybe even throw in some award winning best-sellers here and there. But overall, I want to tell you about books that are worth your time and thought. I won’t rant and rave about a book I hated; I don’t see the point in that. With all the bad news in the world already, nobody needs to learn about a terrible book. The point here is to read, absorb and enjoy. Books are powerful; let them move you.
Here is a short list of books that I feel are worth a read:
“Interpreter of Maladies,” by Jhumpa Lahiri – If you have not read this Pulitzer Prize -winning collection of short stories, you have some catching up to do. Between the delicate yet powerful tone of Lahiri’s writing and her undeniable talent for weaving a heartbreaking tale, there is something in this collection for everyone. I have read and re-read each story and always find something new.
“Dry,” by Augusten Burroughs – Always a sucker for the hilarious memoir, I am never displeased with Burroughs’ writing. He has an ability to make an everyday situation a laughfest while still conveying a deeper emotion throughout. I have found myself literally laughing out loud at this book, as well as his other non- fiction works of comedic genius.
“The Kite Runner,” by Khaled Hosseini – There is something haunting about Hosseini’s writing; I found it impossible to remove his characters from my mind long after closing the book. This led to some undeniable crying while reading the novel. It was worth every tear, let me tell you. Also don’t miss “A Thousand Splendid Suns,” an equally beautiful vision of Hosseini’s literary grace.
“Apathy and Other Small Victories,” by Paul Neilan – If you aren’t hooked by this funny little number after the opening line, there is no hope for you. This book is off-the-wall hilarious, no matter who you are.
“The Gum Thief,” by Douglas Coupland – This book is unique, incorporating a novel-within-a-novel approach. Witty and original, like most of Coupland’s adventures, and told from various points of view, it is impossible to becomed bored.
“The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger – I have read this book about five times, and have not been dissatisfied to date. Read it. And guys, don’t be thwarted by the semi-feminine cover; it’s for you too.
There are many more, and if we had the time, I would list all of my favorites from Salinger to Sedaris. But enough of my past literary relationships. It’s time to begin some new affairs and I have my sights set on fresh new talent, including Sloane Crosley and her recent release, “I Was Told There’d Be Cake,” an honest and cynical collection of essays examining her life. But that will have to wait until next week. Until then, happy reading!