Reccommended Reading -
Great book suggestions submitted by Mrs. Reynen and AP Lang students.

Click on the book picture for more information.


 

I, Jedi
Michael A. Stackpole

I know, most people think Star Wars is just a geek thing. But this book does give rather deep insight into both the Human spirit and the nature of evil.

This book covers multiple themes, including:

THE NATURE OF GOOD AND EVIL: This is a recurring theme throughout the book, as Horn is constantly trying to fight the Dark Side whilst attempting not to fall to it. Stackpole defines evil as a hill with a very steep and slippery slope. He also states that, no matter the example, in solving a problem the ends never justify the means. For example, if omeone has wronged you and you want revenge, killing their dog is not a justifiable way of reaching your ends.

Submitted by Ian Pratt

   


The Stranger
by Albert Calmus

This novel "is set in Camus's birthplace, Algerie francaise, and narrated by Meursault, a young Frenchman. . . . {After his arrest for the murder ofan Arab on the beach}, Meursault shows no remorse. Witnesses at his trial testify about his failure to cry at his mother's funeral. Throughout his ordeal, he resists all attempts by lawyer, magistrate, and chaplain to discuss sin, redemption, God, or afterlife. He is sentenced to death." Also, The Stranger is a great example of existentialism!

Submitted by Marissa Robillard

   


The Demon-Haunted World
by Carl Sagan

An excellent book that everyone should read - Sagan shows the value of skepticism and the scientific method, particularly in handling superstitious beliefs. One of the best parts in the book is where Sagan writes a comprehensive list of fallacies in argument, some of which we have discussed in class (ad hominem).

Submitted by Tyler Kimble

   


Billions & Billions
by Carl Sagan

Brilliant astronomer Carl Sagan's last work, a collection of essays and thoughts dealing with important issues such as global warming, abortion, etc. The last chapter is just extraordinary - Sagan reflects on his life when he knows that he is about to die with moving, inspirational language.

Submitted by Tyler Kimble

   

Forgotten Fire
by Adam Bagdasarian

This book details the journey made by a young Armenian boy during the Armenian holocaust. This is my favorite book. Although it can be hard to read at times, the way Bagdasarian writes makes you feel like you're standing RIGHT next to Vahan, the main character, rather than above him and listening in to his thoughts. The writing is beautiful, and that alone is a reason to read the book!

Submitted by Kate Schleitwiler

   

All-American Girl
by Meg Cabot

Yes, it's targeted for a slightly younger age range, but it is absolutely hysterical! That's all I have to say.

Submitted by Kate Schleitwiler

 
   

Bias
by Bernard Goldberg

A CBS-media insider exposes how the media distort the news. Perhaps slightly exagerated, but it gives you a new perspective on the media-giants, and who can't laugh when Goldberg compares Dan Rather to Mario Puzzo's The Last Don!

Submitted by Kate Schleitwiler

   

Harry Potter
by J.K. Rowling

My reason for why it makes my best book list-DUH! Just, DUH! There is nothing else like it!


Submitted by Kate Schleitwiler

   

The Story of B
By Daniel Quinn

If you enjoyed Ishmael, this book takes it a step further. The Story of B has the same type of urgent wisdom with a more action-oriented plotline. Devout Christians beware - Quinn knocks religion in a more straight-forward way; just keep an open mind.



 

Submitted by Tyler Kimble

   

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