5 Books to Read if You Absolutely Don’t Enjoy Reading!
Reading may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Perhaps, you find the very act of reading a tedious one as it requires skills like sustained attention which could feel exhausting. Sometimes, the narrative of a book moves too slowly to be able to captivate the reader. It has been found that one of the key reasons why some people dislike reading is because they haven’t found the right books for themselves yet. This post is committed to recommending a few outstanding books from different genres that will alter your perspective and transform you into a bibliophile.
- The Story of My Life by Helen Keller
Genre: Biography
Helen Keller’s biography, first published when she was a young woman, has become one of the most inspiring stories of our time. The book reveals her exceptional courage and determination to triumph over her disability. While the story of her life is complex, the book is extremely easy to read with her eloquent narrative. Through Helen’s journey, you will truly come to understand how the most beautiful things in the world will move your heart even before you can touch, hear or see them. Once you’ve read this book, you will yearn for more such books that inspire readers to overcome any obstacle to living wholeheartedly.
- The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Genre: Thriller
Who doesn’t appreciate a good murder mystery? This book follows the story of a young man who discovers a way of thinking and living that is a world away from mere humdrum existence. While the details of the plot are dark and cerebral, the writing is simple and compelling. Not only this, the book is replete with beautiful imagery- walls climbing with ivy, old statues made of marble- which will transport you to the alluring world of England’s dark academia. The narrative is immensely gripping, leaving no room for the reader to get bored. While keeping you hooked till the last sentence, the ending will leave you absolutely astounded. We bet that once you’re done, you’ll find yourself secretly reading mystery books under the covers late into the night!
- The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Genre: Fantasy
Written in simple, child-like prose, The Little Prince offers an introspective look into the nature of humanity. It follows the journey of the eponymous prince who looks at the modern world through the eyes of a child but articulates his observations like a wise man. Filled with unconventional “characters” like The Rose, The Fox and The Astronomer, the book subtly, yet impactfully touches on friendship, love, technological progress, and the decay of modern society. This is what makes the book more relevant today than ever. While asking fundamental questions about our existence, it is a meditation on growing up and what we leave behind as we do. The book will help you realise the power of your childhood dreams and why you must never give up on them.
- The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Genre: Historical fiction
If you’re into historical fiction or interested in discovering parts of Mythology in today’s tough times, then this book’s for you! Written by the award-winning novelist and poetess, the novel is a rendition of the Hindu epic Mahabharata told from Draupadi’s point of view. It is significant, for it is the retelling of the largely male-centric age-old saga from a woman’s perspective. The fluidly and enchantingly written narrative will alter your perspective of the story we have been told repeatedly from our childhood. From the story of her magical birth in the fire to her final moments, Draupadi reveals through her insightful observations that she had a powerful heart. She was more than a mere pawn at the hands of the Gods and men, for she had the power to craft her own destiny. The writer’s portrayal of Draupadi’s fiercely independent spirit makes her a feminist icon. In addition to this, Divakaruni also presents a stirring account of the quest for power and the inscrutable laws of destiny, which is an astute reflection of today’s war-torn world.
- The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Genre: Science fiction
Why was the universe created? What is the purpose of our existence? If you’ve ever found yourself asking such questions, this book will explore their answers with unquestionable wit and humour. Science fiction enthusiasts have declared this book to be this century’s best novel in this genre. By showing a universe that makes no sense and having his characters constantly question it, the writer subtly hints that this is the natural human state. While being set light years ahead, the narrative focuses on the uses and abuses of science and technology and hence, says more about our present times than about the distant future. Travel through the galaxy in a spaceship while immersing yourself in the thought-provoking concerns that bind all humanity together.
A love for reading can be born at any age. All it takes is the right reading list to get you started. Begin by reading the book that fascinated you the most from the given list. Once you step into the world of books, you will enjoy reading beyond imagination! As Stephen King says, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” We hope that the aforementioned books will kindle the love for reading within you.
