While returning to school is exciting, all of this change can be tiring on top of homework. One way I enjoy unwinding in between assignments is through reading. Every genre has its own gems that enthrall any reader. As an avid reader, I have specifically chosen these novels because they are easy to follow and have inviting narration. If you’re looking at a new way to relax and take your mind off of school or work, take a look at some of these titles to get started.

Fiction

“My Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George is a wonderful novel aimed at ages 9-15 that details the adventures of 15-year-old Sam Gribley. Growing up, Sam always loved the outdoors and imagined living freely among nature in the beautiful Catskill Mountains of upstate New York. One day, he decides that he will live on his grandfather’s abandoned farm hidden deep in the mountains with a few tools, 40 dollars, and his courage to keep him safe.

This book is exciting and fulfills a strange fantasy almost everyone has experienced: What if I just ran away and lived in the woods?

Fantasy/Adventure

“Percy Jackson & the Olympians” is a massively popular children’s fantasy series by Rick Riordan. The series highlights the adventures of Percy Jackson, the powerful son of Poseidon, and his other demigod friends as they battle mythological enemies. Through quests and battles, Percy and his friends still continue to try to live normal teenage lives, even in the face of Olympus-level threats.

Rosary student Charlotte Jordan ’23 says that she grew up with these books, sharing, “I loved learning about Greek mythology, and I got super attached to the characters. It’s a great series for people who aren’t normally fans of reading.” These novels are sure to keep you reading book after book, and after this series, there are many more like it to check out.

Nonfiction

If you’re looking for something more informative yet still easy to read, check out “Reality Is Broken” by Jane McGonigal. The author explores how society can utilize the benefits of gaming online in order to make our lives more productive. She further questions if the same productivity to fix long term issues like poverty and climate change.

This book isn’t just for gamers looking to be more productive in everyday life: it’s also for people searching for a new way to solve issues spanning from not having the time for doing laundry to finally going after the job of their dreams. For such an educational book, it reads clearly and will not leave you feeling confused.

Science Fiction

Sci-fi has many influential works and authors to its name; however, Richard Matheson and his novel “I Am Legend” stand out. This thrilling novel features Robert Neville, the last man on Earth. Everyone around him has turned into vampires, leading to a drastic change in his everyday living.

With its straightforward narration and non-stop plot, this book is sure to keep you captivated and wanting more.

Historical Fiction

“Pride & Prejudice” is a well known Jane Austen novel highlighting the slow-burning romance between intelligent Elizabeth Bennet and prideful Fitzwilliam Darcy in 19th century England. Austen’s usage of language is easy to follow and makes enjoying classic literature simple, with relatable characters and an enthralling plot.

Emma Silva ’23 loves this novel, saying, “I think it’s the most beautiful piece of literature from that period, and the backbone for all modern love stories. It’s impossible not to fall in love with both Darcy and Mr. Bingley, and I think that the evolvement of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship is so interesting and makes it hard to put the book down.” I couldn’t have said it better myself, and I highly recommend this novel.

Reading is such a wonderful way to pass the time and feel productive, though it can also be a perfect way to relax. Give it a try, and maybe one of these books will get you into something you never thought you would enjoy.