While it may be something that most don’t like to think about, as it’s never a pleasant topic of conversation, death is a part of life. That means that the time we have on this earth are finite, and as such, it is so important to make the most of the things that you love. If you’re an avid reader, trying to get in as many books as you possibly can before you pass on is crucial. Even if you aren’t a so-called bookworm, reading is really something you should prioritize, as it offers a wealth of benefits.
If you’re looking to increase your reading time or you always have your nose in a book and you’re looking for some great titles to add to the list, here’s a look at some books you should read before you die.
1984 by George Orwell
Published in 1949, 1984 by George Orwell provides a frightening glimpse at a dystopian global society where the government has put such totalitarian control in place and has completely removed citizens’ inalienable rights that even thinking thoughts that are in opposition of Big Brother (the supreme ruler of Oceania, the police state country that has replaced all of the governments of the Western Hemisphere, the UK, and most of the countries that are ruled by the British Empire) can end with being hauled off by the Thought Police. Given the state of the world since March of 2020,reading 1984 is a must. In fact, when you compare the book to the current climate, you may make you wonder if George Orwell was a seer.
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
Published in 1958, just two years before Nigeria declared their independence, Things Fall Apart was the first African book that garnered global attention. A short, easy read, this novel shares critical messages: the importance of familial traditions, the legacy of colonialism, as well as fate and will. More significantly, it highlights the ill effects that occur when societies and individuals fail to advance.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
A lighthearted tale about a highly spirited and courageous orphan girl who is adopted by an elderly brother and sister, Anne of Green Gables is a delightful read. While reading this coming-of-age tale, you’ll be brought along on a young girl’s journey as she tries to find her place in life. It’s a beloved classic and an absolute must-read.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Another classic, The Catcher in the Rye was published as a novel in 1951. While the author intended it for adults, it has become an iconic title for adolescents, due to the themes that appeal to this age group, such as angst, alienation, and the superficiality of society. In Holden Caulfield (the main character), many have said that Salinger created the original “cynical adolescent”.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
A quintessential adventure/revenge novel that was completed by Dumas, a French writer, in 1844, The Count of Monte Cristo is another title to add to your list of must-reads. The book is the tale of the young Frenchman Edmond Dantes, who is falsely accused and hailed without trial on an island off the coast of France. Dantes’ determination and will drove him to escape his wrongful imprisonment and attempt to avenge himself. Though written more than 170 years ago, it remains – and will continue to remain – a revenge tale that resonates throughout the ages.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Set in the Jazz Age on Long Island, New York, The Great Gatsby has been dubbed by many the greatest novel of all time. The story is told by narrator Nick Carraway, who shares his relationship with Jay Gatsby, a “new money” millionaire, and his obsession with rekindling his romance with Daisy Buchanan, Gatsby’s former lover.