Items filtered by date: Friday, 22 March 2024

10 Books to Dive Into During Your Leisure Time

In the fast-paced world we live in, where screens dominate our attention and distractions are plenty, there's a quiet magic waiting to be discovered within the pages of a book. 

Summer is the perfect time to escape into the world of books and let your imagination soar. Whether you're lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun at the beach, or enjoying a lazy afternoon in the backyard, a good book can transport you to new places and ignite your passion for reading. To help readers of all ages discover their next literary adventure, we've compiled a diverse list of ten books that are sure to delight and inspire.

1.  Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (Ages 8+):  Join Harry Potter as he embarks on his magical journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Filled with friendship, adventure, and the power of love, this timeless classic is perfect for readers of all ages.

2. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis (Ages 9+):  Step through the wardrobe into the enchanting land of Narnia, where four siblings embark on a fantastical adventure to defeat the White Witch and restore peace to the kingdom. This beloved tale of courage and sacrifice is a must-read for the whole family.

3. Wonder by R.J. Palacio (Ages 10+):  Follow the inspiring story of August Pullman, a young boy with facial differences, navigating the challenges of fitting in at a new school. Filled with empathy, kindness, and the importance of acceptance, this heartwarming novel is perfect for readers of all ages.

4. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (Ages 12+):  Embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening with Santiago, a young shepherd boy who sets out to find his ‘Personal Legend’. Filled with wisdom and inspiration, this timeless fable is a must-read for anyone seeking meaning and purpose in life.

5. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (Ages 13+):  Set in the Deep South during the 1930s, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the powerful story of racial injustice and moral growth through the eyes of young Scout Finch. Filled with compassion, integrity, and the enduring power of empathy, this classic novel is a poignant reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right.

6. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (Ages 14+):  Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, this powerful novel follows sixteen-year-old Starr Carter as she navigates the aftermath of witnessing the police shooting of her childhood friend. Filled with courage, activism, and the importance of speaking out against injustice, this timely and thought-provoking book is a must-read for teens and adults alike.

7. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens (Adults):  Immerse yourself in the atmospheric marshes of North Carolina with this hauntingly beautiful novel about love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. Filled with lyrical prose, richly drawn characters, and a gripping mystery, this New York Times bestseller is perfect for fans of literary fiction and historical romance.

8. Educated by Tara Westover (Adults):  Step into the extraordinary true story of Tara Westover, who grew up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho with no formal education. Filled with courage, determination, and the power of self-discovery, this compelling memoir is a testament to the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit.

9. Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple (Adults):  Follow the quirky and hilarious adventure of Bernadette Fox, a brilliant but eccentric architect who disappears without a trace, leaving her teenage daughter to unravel the mystery of her disappearance. Filled with humour, heart, and unexpected twists, this delightful novel is perfect for contemporary fiction and comedy fans.

10. Becoming by Michelle Obama (Adults):  Discover the inspiring journey of Michelle Obama, from her childhood in Chicago to her years as First Lady of the United States. Filled with honesty, grace, and wisdom, this intimate memoir offers readers a rare glimpse into the life of one of the most influential women of our time.

Some other reads that can be found interesting are:

11. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern:  Step into the enchanting world of Le Cirque des Rêves, a mysterious circus that appears without warning and only opens at night. Lose yourself in this mesmerising tale of magic, love, and the power of imagination.

12. Circe by Madeline Miller:  Experience Greek mythology like never before in this spellbinding retelling of the story of Circe, the powerful witch from Homer's Odyssey. Journey with Circe as she discovers her strength and forges her destiny.

13. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett:  Dive into this thought-provoking novel about identity, race, and family secrets. Follow the lives of twin sisters Desiree and Stella as they navigate the complexities of racial passing and the enduring bonds of sisterhood.

With these captivating books spanning a wide range of genres and age groups, readers of all ages can embark on a literary adventure this summer. Whether you're seeking fantasy, adventure, laughter, or inspiration, there's something for everyone to dive into and enjoy. So grab a book, find a cosy spot, and let your imagination take flight as you explore the wonders of the written word this summer.