The books of our generation
May 19, 2022
Unfortunately, many people tend to lose their love for reading when they get into high school that they valued so much throughout childhood. Here are a few of, what I consider to be, staple reads of our generation that will bring flashbacks to those who were avid readers as children or should be put on a “to be read” list for those who have never read them.
“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins
I don’t think I have ever met a person my age that has not read “The Hunger Games” trilogy yet. Following the story of 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, “The Hunger Games” is set in a dystopian version of North America, called Panem, where 24 kids are “reaped” each year to participate in a death match that is broadcasted on live TV. The three main books follow Katniss’ life, and there is one prequel to the series that is set in the same world but years before her story. All of the books have been adapted into films, which are arguably just as good as the books, something that is quite rare as many book lovers would know. If you have not read the trilogy yet, you would not want to miss out, and if you have, don’t be afraid to reread it if you have fallen into a reading slump.
“Percy Jackson” by Rick Riordan
It seems strange to think that some people never went through a Greek Mythology phase in middle school after reading this series. “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” is a five-book series that follows young Percy Jackson on his journey of discovering his origin as the son of Poseidon. The series features a multitude of other characters who are also demigods (children of gods) and is quite informative about other aspects of Greek Mythology. While the series only has film adaptations for the first and second books, it was also announced recently that a film series by Disney is in the works. The series is sure to make you wish that you were a part of the world of demigods.
“The Maze Runner” by James Dashner
This thrilling trilogy starts in the center of a maze where the main protagonist, Thomas, mysteriously wakes up with no memory other than his name. The center of the maze is home to a group of teenage boys who also wound up there with no memory and have been trying to find a way out ever since. The main series continues to follow Thomas and the other boys as they try to get out of the maze and discover what’s become of the world beyond the walls. This series is perfect for anyone looking for some action with a side of mystery and goofy teenage boys. All three books have also been adapted into films with top-notch casting.
“Divergent” by Veronica Roth
This may not be common for everyone, but I found that his series is perfect to read after “The Hunger Games,” when you are seeking another dystopian with a powerful female lead. The “Divergent” trilogy takes place in a society that separates people by their personalities into what are called “factions.” The main protagonist, Tris Prior, is just at the age where she gets to choose which faction she wants to be a part of, and the books follow her journey of self-discovery and rebellion against the corrupt government. All three of the books are worth reading, however, I would advise against reading the last few chapters of the final book if a happy ending is desired. Like all these series, the books have film adaptations that are sure to bring just as much nostalgia as the books themselves.