Too many people neglect reading because they can’t find a book that speaks to them. With this list, we hope to give Legal Pad readers a set of interesting and diverse works of literature that we have deemed wide-ranging enough to convert anyone to bookworm-ism. These books will transport you to another world, whether it be Japan in the early aughts or a wedding in Martha’s Vineyard. May you find a book that speaks to you, in the midst of a world of gibberish.
Fantasy
If You Could See the Sun – Ann Liang – 4/5
Set in a near-future Beijing, this novel blends high school drama with sci-fi elements as a girl with the ability to see people’s deepest secrets navigates the complexities of adolescence and social pressure.
Powerless – Lauren Roberts – 4.5/5
In a world where superpowers are the norm, a girl without abilities finds herself at the center of a dangerous conspiracy.
Circe – Madeline Miller – 4.5/5
Miller reimagines the myth of Circe, exploring her transformation from scorned nymph to powerful witch with a deep sense of self.
Nonfiction
Trick Mirror – Jia Tolentino – 5/5
An exceptional blend of memoir and investigation. Tolentino’s charismatic voice guides us through reality TV, cancel culture, beauty politics, the collapse of selfhood, and more.
Meditations – Marcus Aurelius – 4.5/5
This collection of personal reflections from the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius offers timeless wisdom on stoicism, leadership, and personal conduct.
Slouching Towards Bethlehem – Joan Didion – 4.5/5
An introduction to Didion’s literary style. She dissects subjects from a revealing murder to the meaning of self-respect with a hunger for truth.
Coming of Age
A Separate Peace – John Knowles – 4/5
A devastating read, this story swings from brotherhood to betrayal as an overachiever struggles with the utter freedom of his best friend and worst enemy.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower – Stephen Chbosky – 5/5
Charlie decides to “participate” in life, inciting a memorable freshman year. Friendship, family, and mental health collide in this chronicle of the trials of youth.
The Virgin Suicides – Jeffrey Eugenides – 4/5
The five doomed Lisbon sisters are monitored by infatuated stalker-boys. Lust, betrayal and teenagehood are explored as the daughters decide to be left alone forever.
Romance
The Fault in Our Stars – John Green – 4/5
Hazel and Augustus are completely in love, but they’re both afflicted with terminal illness. The two teens experience the love of a lifetime as they navigate life and death.
Holding Up the Universe – Jennifer Niven – 4/5
A YA novel about love and acceptance. Jack and Libby’s bond goes deep: they love mutually, flaws included, when the world turns on them.
Happy Place – Emily Henry – 4.5/5
A heartwarming and witty romance unfolds as two exes fake a relationship during a vacation with friends, navigating old wounds and rekindled feelings.
Thriller
Final Girls – Riley Sager – 4/5
In a suspenseful tale of survival, three women known as “Final Girls” are brought together after surviving separate massacres, only to find themselves in a new web of danger.
Every Last Secret – A.R. Torre – 4.5/5
A suspenseful tale of obsession and deception unfolds as a woman’s seemingly perfect life is unraveled by dark secrets and hidden motives.
Thank you for looking at our list! If you disagree…well it’s ok to be wrong!
