Four Beloved Books
Sophie Lombardi
How does a book achieve an enduring impact? Is it a compelling plot and relatable characters? Yet some incredible slow burners feature deeply unlikeable protagonists — Wuthering Heights, for example. Perhaps it’s a distinct, immersive writing style that draws a reader in, or a satisfying ending that lingers long after the final page. I suspect the best books blend several of these elements in different measures, weaving them together so effectively that you find yourself reading well past lights out. In the spirit of World Book Day, I thought I’d share a few of my favourites that will never find themselves in the charity shop pile.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
I think my love for this book stems the protective feelings I felt towards the main character ‘Theo’ who survives a bomb attack and loses his mother. The novel follows his tumultuous life over many years from New York to Las Vegas, featuring themes of friendship, addiction, and grief. Although this is a great brick of a book, I found the story to be totally compelling and immersive. As with all my favourite books, I was sad to say goodbye.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak follows Liesel, a young girl living in Nazi Germany during World War II. After being sent to live with foster parents, Liesel learns to read and soon begins stealing forbidden books. Along the way, she forms a close friendship with a Jewish man who is hidden in her basement.
As the war unfolds, books and stories become a source of comfort, helping Liesel and those around her cope with fear, loss, and hardship. Liesel’s sweet innocence, set against the horrors of war, makes this story deeply touching and truly enduring.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Amir (a Pashtun) and Hassan (a Hazara) are childhood best friends who enjoy kite flying in Kabul. However, as tension grows between ethnic groups in Afghanistan, inequality creates a huge divide between the two boys. The characters struggle against the harsh political situation in Afghanistan, including war and the rule of the Taliban, which brings violence and oppression. These two innocent children are dragged into this conflict, with devastating consequences for both of them. The Kite Runner is a story about the struggle between loyalty and friendship within a society shaped by strict hierarchies and prejudice.
Educated by Tara Westover
Educated by Tara Westover is an inspiring memoir that chronicles her journey from growing up in a strict, survivalist family in rural Idaho to eventually earning a PhD from the University of Cambridge.
The book explores powerful themes of education, identity, and the struggle to reconcile one’s upbringing with the desire for knowledge and personal growth. As Tara’s world expands through learning, she is ultimately forced to confront a painful choice between loyalty to her family and the life she wants to build for herself. Her story is both remarkable and deeply memorable, making Educated a truly powerful autobiography.
