I normally like classics, particularly late 19th century literature, but Wharton’s writing frustrated me, in the fact that it completely contradicted the point she was trying to make in her story. Her writing reaked of snobby, uperclass, convention; everything she was criticizing in her book. I found it quite stiffling to read, and was forced to walk around several times after a chapter or so to clear my head and catch some air.

The story, sadly was not strong enough to draw me in completel either. I only feigned a mild interest in it at few points in the book. I feel bad aout not being able to enjoy this classic more, but I guess that’s the way the cookie crumbles.

Neil Gaiman’s creativity shines through Neverwhere and it is by far his best novel.

Gaiman may not be the world’s most brilliant writer, but what he lacks in form and depth, is made up for by his orginality. If you’re into just plain strange, fantasy-clashing-with-reality-fiction. Pick this one up. : )

If your into coming of age novels (which I am) this is a must read. It’s one of the best examining of the teenage mind ever. Knowles puts into words what I struggle to, and he does it beautifuly.

Take an afternoon off and read this. If you’re female, it’s likely to make you cry.

It’s true that we’re stuck in a world of social niceties. People say there is a proper way to interact with other humans. That way is almost always a straight lie. Most of us know and accept this, but characters like Holden Caulfield are driven mad by it.

In this short yet powerful novel we follow a teenager over the course of three days in his life. The pain and angst and truth ooze out of every page, and you’ll either find yourself feeling sorry for Holden, or wanting to beat the living hell out of him. Either way the author has done his job.

Literature should bring forth some powerful emotion from the reader, and if it’s done so, it’s done it’s job. I think The Catcher in the Rye, will do that to all it’s readers if they fully emerge themselves into the complexly simple psyche of Holden Caulfield.

This is the lesser known novel by S.E. Hinton (author of The Outsiders). You could even call it a companion novel.

I absolutely loved every second of this book. As heartbreaking as The Outsiders, and as deep (if not deeper) a message as The Outsiders. Drugs is the enemy in this novel rather than social tension.

If you liked The Outsiders, I guarentee you’ll like this darker, more personal companion to it.

Judy Blume practically raised me. From Superfudge to Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret, to this, Summer Sisters.

This book so realistically depicts the passage of time, and the changes that groups of people go through. The truthfulness of Blume’s writing is of course present. Everytime I read this book I get a warm nostalgic feeling, despite my young age.

This is a book I read over and over again, and will probably never tire of doing so. I’ve coaxed several people into reading this novel and all of them thanked me. I urge everyone to do the same. : )