These books helped me not only cope with my anxieties but also gave me a purpose to live. Every morning I wake up looking forward to devouring a few more pages of my favorite books. These experiences are something which I would like to share with as many people as possible, therefore here is my list of the must-read fantasies.
1. Lord of the Rings, J.R.R Tolkien
The Lord of The Rings was a book which came to me when I was around 8 years old. I remember smuggling it to school to read under my calculus book. It’s a book which reads like a symphony, you’re able to paint the picture and watch them move, you’re able to picture every detail of the Nazguls in your head. This book doesn’t only capture the world of medieval fantasy but allows you to picture yourself there. J.R.R Tolkien’s soul, spirit, and his world have been clearly visualized in the trilogy of movies. These books most powerfully evoke the spirit of the beautiful writer.
2. The Magician, Lev Grossman
Lev Grossman managed to put in his emotions as a human in this book, a book where the hero sits in the corner struggling with PTSD, a story where it doesn’t always end with Cinderella and the Prince and encompasses a range of true human emotions. For someone who’s used to a successful conclusion, this book was a breath of fresh air. For those who’re looking for a twist, this would be the best book to read.
3. Game of Thrones, George R.R Martin
This series was given to me as a gift, and what better gift to be presented to a bookworm? It’s unstoppable, sexual, vulgar and increasingly addictive. The story builds on you, increasing your curiosity. Sex is part of this book series allowing you to color your imagination, and the gore in the book becomes vivid as you accompany it with watching the series. For those who are watching the series, the true essence or emotion can’t be felt unless one reads the books.
4. The Night Watch, Sergei Lukyanenko.
A tale told in a unique perspective, where most fantasies are usually painted from the minds of a Western, medieval perspective, the Night Watch depicts an urban, Russian fantasy. It brings upon the spirit of dark, gloomy, versatile Russia into play; portraying the presence of a bloodsucker in the midst of the night. In these twisted fairy tales you’ll witness a gritty twist where traditional fantasy meets horror. This series is for those who want a twist and a glimpse into non-conventional stories told by a culture which holds a unique entitlement to the literary world.
5. Harry Potter, J.K Rowling
I have saved the best for last: Harry Potter; a mysterious magical world that kept many waiting for their letters from Hogwarts. The story that portrayed the importance of magic, friendship, bravery, and relationships together and if viewed in the perspective of real life, it teaches one to love. It’s a book which brought tears to my eyes and allowed my imagination to fly high. Harry Potter is a book which allows you to feel the illusion the movies wish to portray. Some of these books will be familiar to many, however if you’ve not already read them then this definitely should be your priority this summer. These are what I would call books worth a thousand reads. Featured photo credit: Tumblr via domienova.com
