Top Picks From Each Genres

 If you put me on the spot and ask me my favorite book, I would definitely blank out. Even with time to think, I would never be able to choose. However, these are some of my top picks from a few genres. 

Classic:

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Classic books are always a hit or miss for me. Most of the time, these novels are incredibly boring or hard to read. However, some classic novels exceed all expectations. One of these novels includes the Secret Garden.

The Secret Garden follows the story of a young orphaned and spoiled girl named Mary Lennox. After her parents’ death, she is sent to live with her widowed uncle in England. As Mary explores her uncle’s estate, she not only meets new people but also uncovers secrets.

The first time I read this book was when I was around 10-years-old. Burnett incorporates dialects into the dialogue which was, at first, confusing to read. However, as I read on, I quickly adored the book. It was a simple storyline, but it was meaningful. The character development of all the main characters added another depth to the book. The Secret Garden is definitely a mellow read, but it is a book I will 10/10 recommend.

Thriller and Mystery:

The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown

I contemplated making thriller and mystery into two separate categories, but the same book would win both. The DaVinci Code follows the famed professor, Robert Langdon, as he runs away from the police to solve a murder and answer a question that could change the entire world. The book covers countless historical topics, ranging from the medieval period to the Renaissance, and forms one of the most complex storylines I have ever read.

If you have read my first blog, you will know how much I love this book. For one, I love anything to do with the medieval and Renaissance time period. Every detail of the book is woven so intricately to create one of the best plots (and plot twists). This novel will remain one of my top books, and I will continue to recommend it.

Historical Fiction:

The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton

If you are in my history class, you can tell how much I love history (especially by how many times I raise my hand in that class). Not surprisingly, historical fiction is by far my favorite genre, so it is simply impossible for me to pick a favorite book. The Clockmaker’s Daughter is just one of the many historical fiction books I love. This novel jumps through numerous perspectives from different times, ranging from the 19th century, through the 20th century, and to the present day. Each perspective pieces a part of the 150-year-old mystery surrounding a manor in the English countryside.

I won’t lie -- this book was a long read. But every page is worth it. As you can also tell, I love books with complex storylines, and Morton’s book did not disappoint. The way the author presents the story creates a unique reading experience. As the reader, you get to slowly uncover the mystery through the perspective of characters from different time periods.  

Realistic Fiction:

See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng

To be completely honest, I dislike coming-of-age stories. However, this book stole my heart. See You in the Cosmos follows the 11-year-old Alex Petroski’s goal to launch his iPod into space. As he journeys through different cities with his dog, he meets family, makes friends, and goes through so much more. He records himself on his iPod in hopes of sending it to other lifeforms. 

This novel is a heartwarming read. Jack Cheng, the author, did an excellent job writing each character. Everyone felt complicated and real. Some chapters were in the form of a voice recording, making the book even more unique. Overall, See You in the Cosmos is a touching book that I would definitely recommend.

- Sarisa