This week, we have decided to share some of our favorite books we think make perfect reads for May. We know very well the struggles of balancing humongous amounts of homework every night, extracurriculars and times with family and friends, but if you get the chance to have some free time, check these wonderful novels out.
#1 “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
How do I even describe this book? Maya’s favorite book tells the tale of three women who meet through their children. Their children, however, aren’t the only thing connecting them. The real truth is sinister. The past always comes back to haunt you. Beware because the ending of this book will leave you shook to the very core.
#2 “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur
Kaur’s “Milk and Honey” is a collection of poems sorted into four categories: the hurting, the loving, the breaking and the healing. Each chapter describes a different type of pain. Along with the poems are beautiful, simplistic drawings that convey messages to the reader. This book is so inspiring because it touches on the different types of love and sorrow that many women can relate to.
#3 “Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World” by Penelope Bagieu
This book not only contains inspiring stories of amazing women throughout history but also is an absolutely incredible graphic novel. Bagieu rewrites these forgotten stories in a comical yet profound manner and also illustrates each story. You won’t be able to put it down. We both read it in one day! These “brazen” women include Wu Ze Tian, China’s only woman emperor; Agnodice, first female doctor and gynecologist; Nellie Bly, a journalist who went undercover to report about the horrible conditions of insane asylums; and many more!
#4 “Salt to the Sea” by Ruta Sepetys
Sepetys’ “Salt to the Sea” tells the moving story of four individuals during World War II as they travel aboard the doomed Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship evacuating German civilians, officials and refugees from Prussia, Lithuania and Latvia, just to name a few. The book is told through four alternating perspectives until their paths eventually converge. Though the story is a tragedy, Septys’ writing and use of alternating narrations make the reader feel as she is actually with the characters through their hardships and evoke a wide range of emotions. One of Lusya’s personal favorite novels of all time, “Salt to the Sea” is sure to keep you hooked until the end.
#5 “Turtles All the Way Down” by John Green
“Turtles All the Way Down” tells the story of Aza, a sixteen-year-old girl struggling with OCD and anxiety, who, along with her best friend, Daisy, embarks on a search for a fugitive billionaire. Along the way, Aza also navigates the rekindling of an old friendship with the billionaire’s son, Davis. This story is filled with love, loss and the resilience of the human spirit. “People Magazine” describes it as “a tender story about learning to cope when the world feels out of control.” If you love John Green, allot some time in your schedule because you won’t want to put it down.