Enjoyable Required Readings
Many books on schools’ dreaded “required reading” lists have been marked as unenjoyable reads. Some of these novels are the bane of any student’s existence. Hated Romeo and Juliet? Was Pride and Prejudice not your cup of tea? The Old Man and the Sea was way too boring for you? We’ve all been there, but luckily there are plenty of awesome books to be found on the required reading line up. Here are just a few of my all-time favorites.
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
This is hands down one of my favorites. I read Fahrenheit 451 as a senior in high school and loved pretty much everything about it. It’s been six years since then, and this is a book that I will definitely be revisiting sooner rather than later. I’m excited to see how my perspective on it has changed years later.
My favorite things about this novel were the writing style, the action and plot of the story, and the character’s motives/actions in the context of their dystopian society. The only thing I recall being a little underwhelmed by was the concluding page or two of the book. But overall, I can totally see how this novel continuously earns a spot on the list of books everyone should read in a lifetime.
The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
Before reading this piece for a Medieval Literature class, I never would have thought I’d have liked The Canterbury Tales as much as I did. I recall really loving Chaucer’s humor. He is actually quite funny and writes about some pretty goofy, crazy characters and situations. Most of the tales in this book were entertaining as heck, although there were a few that weren’t that great and could probably be skipped. It’s a good piece to read if you’re looking to learn about Medieval culture and class systems too.
I can attribute the main factor as to why I enjoyed The Canterbury Tales so much to my love of satire. This work is extremely satirical in its commentary on Medieval life and the class system of the time. Each tale is told by a different member of society (Nun, Cook, Knight, etc.) and pokes fun at other members of opposing classes as a means to get even with one another. The language is surprising accessible too, so don’t let the age of this book scare you away from reading it!
Native Son & Uncle Tom’s Children by Richard Wright
I knew nothing of Richard Wright 3.5 years ago, but after reading him for an African American Literature class, I certainly became a fan. He writes incredibly powerful works and I can’t wait to read more of him in the future. If I were to describe these two books, I would label them: emotional, shocking, depressing, demanding, and righteous.
If there is ever going to be a good time to read Richard Wright, I truly believe that time is now. His works are politically motivating in a really good way. They moved me towards a desire for more action regarding issues of racism and systemic oppression. But even if you’re not in it for the social commentary, his stories have good entertainment value and are well-written. Just be prepared to have your emotions jerked around.
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
I realize this may be very English major-esque of me — and many of you probably don’t care about Hamlet — but I love Shakespeare and this piece of literature. I have such an appreciation for this classic hero’s journey.
I don’t know what it is; there’s just something about a young man’s quest to avenge his father that is so timeless, and it’s undeniable that Shakespeare’s tale is one of the most revered of this kind. Although I can never escape the sadness the tragic ending brings me, this work includes very entertaining scenes, as well as great themes and characters.
Originally published at https://www.hercampus.com on March 13, 2019.
