As a motivation to myself, I decided to start the Top Ten Tuesdays. Every week I will post a list of things that I think are perfect in their own right. I think, everyone will find at least one from the long list that appeals to them. This is an exercise in improving the frequency of my posts and will push me to keep doing this, which makes me happy!
The theme for this week is Books! Surprise? Not so much. Since, books have a universal appeal and I have a feeling that the WordPress reader base has an affinity towards books (wink, nudge, wink 😉 )
These are a mix of some of my comfort books, books perfect for a rainy day or just a light read. Each will be accompanied by a link to its Goodreads review, and the Amazon purchase link, for your ease.
1. Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte: This classic is a comfort read. With simple situations and a clarity of expression, Bronte’s writing makes Jane Eyre a real life person. You want her life, and then you don’t. But you always do, for the sheer brilliance with which she leads her life. Jane is a strong female character in a novel from the 18th century. Even if you’re not a Feminist, you’ll appreciate the vibes of strength & dedication.
Jane Eyre on Goodreads. Amazon.com
2. The Invisible Man, by H.G. Wells: When I read the abridged version in school, I was enamored. Any little kid with a fascination of the unknown would be. I would reveal no more than tell you that it is perfect for kids of all ages. And adults!
3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, by J.K. Rowling: The whole series is ‘spellbinding’. What is great is that Harry Potter is a trend for all the good reasons. The story line, the characters and the magic of good writing. It draws you in, that you never want to let go. The last book in the series is comforting because everything wraps up neatly. There is the loss, and love, all in equal measure.
4. Jonathan Livingston Seagull, by Richard Bach: As a compulsory read in 6th grade, anyone would look past it. But as time progresses, this fable of a seagull who takes the road not taken is not only inspiring but also highly practical to implement. I didn’t know anything about seagulls, but the lesson here is that I can. If I want to, I can reach the sky.
5. Delhi, by Khushwant Singh: As a prolific writer, his novel is colorful and true. Set in a simple environment, it explains the beauty of living in a capital city of a country like India. And that with all its vices, that the city is Home.
6. The Complete Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: Conan Doyle deserved his knighthood. He was a pioneer in the mystery genre. I doubt that any of the hundreds of detective Sherlock Holmes’ cases were similar. Each is unique, with its own twists and rationalizations. It can make any man sharper, and detail-oriented. And, there is nothing wrong with that.
7. Angels and Demons, by Dan Brown: An excellent book that follows Robert Langdon, who is a symbologist. He has to solve the little cryptic messages and decipher what they mean to prevent an active act of terrorism. It is a perfect mix of science and religion, a book that you can’t put down.
8. The Great Indian Novel, by Shashi Tharoor: It was one of the first serious books I read as a teenager, I was surprised to have completed loved it. It is a satire, showing the Indian indepence movement as the Mahabharat happened. Even though it is fictional, it outlines the problems, & events that unfolded were of epic proportions. Punny. As is the book.
9. Digital Fortress, by Dan Brown: It is no surprise that another one of his books made the list. Digital Fortress was revolutionary for its story line. Dan Brown’s intricate story-telling with the perfect marriage 0f technolgy and human emotions, is a must read. Simple vocabulary and a beautufully twisted story, ideal for a lazy Sunday.
10. The Shining, by Stephen King: I cannot make a top ten list without dear ol’ Stephen King. The Shining may not be a comfort read but it is the best you can get when it comesto horror. The complexity of events, the eerie and emotions running high. It is the perfect cocktail of blood and tears.
Have you read any of these? If you read them and like them, share the love 🙂 I will come back with more top tens. You can leave requests if you’d like. For some reason, WordPress Reader does not show articles of many writers I follow. I am not sure if this is just an issue with my feed, but blog engagement seems lower than earlier weeks.
If you think this little listicle was helpful or entertaining, leave comments or like the post so I keep writing more. Was this foolish? Critical comments are welcome. I would still always wish you a good day 😀
Thanks for reading!
Vintage Sapience 
Great collection . I once liked Dan brown book for he takes u to some other world..
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Definitely agree. The language is simple and the power thrill is immense. I am glad I found someone who agrees with some of my choices! 😉
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Always saloni.. 🙂 the other books are also page turners..
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😀
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I started with da Vinci code. And then angels and demons and last I read of Dan brown was inferno
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Oh. Yes! It is ideal to start with Da Vinci Code. He also has The Lost Symbol which is as good as all his others. I feel like once you understand his writing style, it becomes a drug to read more and more. I have yet to start Inferno, though.
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Oh yeah true. I also read Sidney Sheldon initially. That’s also addictive
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Ooh, yeah! That can make the next list, when I specifically focus on fiction. And crime, maybe. Thanks for the inspiration 😀 That’s what I wanted with new posts, more ideas for the blog.
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May be u may inspire me to read my next set of books which I haven’t read.. Thanks salon I
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I don’t know the ones from India, so I’ll look them up
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That is great! I hope you’ll like them 🙂
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Let you know!
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Sure!
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