Many avid readers can agree that it is impossible to answer the question ‘’What is your favourite book?’’. Often when I mention to someone that I love to read, there are two questions that I get asked: what kind of books do you read and what is your favorite book? I cannot answer both of these questions sufficiently. I like to read different genres, literary classics and non-fiction about subjects that I find interesting. I also enjoy reading books about books, this is a concept that most non-readers find even more confusing.
Of course, I have books that really made an impression on me. Books that I can reread many times and every time I find something new in them. Books that I would like to recommend to the whole world, however, knowing that other people might enjoy them less or maybe don’t see the magic in them at all. Reading is often a solitary activity, just like studying (according to Rory Gilmore). Not one book would be interpreted the same by different people and we all have our hidden gems or guilty pleasures.
Still, I would like to provide you, dear fellow readers, with the books that have shaped me into the person I am today. The list probably would be updated once in a while, because I keep finding amazing books out there.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
I would want to start with the book that I have reread multiple times. A book full of fantasy and adventures, even though I am not really into the fantasy genre, this book has held a special place in my heart since my childhood. It will always remain my ultimate comfort read.
I used to take this book from the local library every holiday with me in my childhood years. To this day, I have only read it in Dutch, so it is high on my list for a reread in the original language; English.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
One of the first ”real” literary classics that I have read and one of my favourite movies as a child. I love the character of Jane, especially her internal monologue. She is strong, kind, witty, and funny. The story follows Jane through her difficult childhood into adulthood and all the dilemmas that she has to face in her life journey.
Pet Sematary by Stephen King
My favorite horror book of all time ( and also a great movie!). What makes this book great, is that it can scare everyone in a different way. Children would be scared by the horror elements, while adults will get anxious due to the psychological trauma of some characters and real-life problems that they face.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
The most recent addition to my favourites list. I discovered Shirley Jackson’s writing only because of the Netflix series ”The Haunting of Hill House” and I still do not understand why she is not as popular as Stephen King or even Lovecraft. Her writing is phenomenal, especially in We Have Always Lived in the Castle. This book is darkly beautiful (some moments even sinister), and the characters are all well-established, interesting, and unique.
House of Leaves by Mark. Z. Danielewski
One of the most memorable and strange books I have ever read. I would recommend this one to everyone who is seeking a real ”mindfuck” story to read! This one deserves a separate review (coming up soon).
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