2016 summer reading list

Whether you’re hiding in the shade or relaxing on the beach, reading is a great way to pass time and explore new worlds. Finding a good book can be difficult so here are three options to get you started.

 

The Fifth Wave by Rick Yancey

Science Fiction

Trilogy and movie

The Fifth Wave follows teenager Cassie Sullivan as she fights for her life when aliens invade Earth. The aliens use five different waves to take out the Earth’s population. The first wave is a massive power outage, the second wave is an earthquake with a tsunami, the third wave is a deadly and contagious disease, in the fourth wave the aliens invade Earth, and the dawn of the fifth wave is approaching. I personally love this book, and even though the large page count can look daunting, it’s not a hard read. One unique aspect about this book is its changing point of view, although it mainly follows the story of Cassie. This helps set itself apart from other apocalyptic books who may only offer one point of view. The Fifth Wave is for those who adore science fiction and aliens.

“That’s what I wanted him to say and it’s what he wanted to say and that’s what you do when the curtain is falling–you give the line that the audience wants to hear” (Yancy 36).

I give this book 5 out of 5 waves due to it’s ability to keep you on edge, it’s uniqueness, and the length.

 

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

Horror Fiction

Trilogy, movie coming out September 2016

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is about a young boy, Jacob Portman, who is introduced to his grandfather’s past. Jacob’s grandfather grew up in an orphanage, but it was no ordinary orphanage…he was raised in Miss Peregrine’s orphanage. As he grows older, Jacob ceases to believe in his grandfather’s story. However, when his grandfather is killed, it’s up to Jacob to discovers the truth behind his grandfather’s last word, rosebud. This book is quite creepy, as the genre implies. While it is a longer book, it’s hard to put down due to all the twists. Jacob is definitely not a relatable character due to his adventure, but his story is unlike any other. This book is great for people who love creepy monsters and children alike.

“I held the snapshot closer. The girl’s feet weren’t touching the ground. But she wasn’t jumping-she seemed to be floating in the air. My jaw fell open” (Riggs 11).

Four out of five photographs. This book is amazing. I gave it four since some people prefer a character with a story that can be relatable, and the oddness of it can be freaky sometimes. Definitely worth reading though.

 

Looking for Alaska by John Green

Realistic fiction

Novel, movie coming soon

Looking for Alaska is about a boy named Miles Halter who escapes his safe life and goes to Culver Creek Boarding School. There he meets Alaska Young and other friends. It teaches many lessons for readers and has a character that can be more relatable. I enjoyed this book. Looking for Alaska isn’t too different from John Green’s other books, so someone who enjoys his other books should definitely check this one out. This book is great for people who want a relatable character and a tear-jerking read.

“That’s why I’m going. So I don’t have to wait until I die to start seeking a Great Perhaps” (Green 5).

Five out of five last words. This book was very well written and Miles character can be relatable for readers. This book is also a quick read which helps it’s rating. Definitely worth reading.