There are many kinds of readers, and each one is different from the other. But I feel there are some books that are made for every kind. Here are 5 paperbacks that I feel deserve a special place on every reader’s bookshelf. Here they are:
1. The Palace of Illusion – Chitra Divakaruni Banerjee
Based on the Mahabharat, this novel tells the story of the greatest epic through Draupadi’s eyes. Written in beautiful prose style, the entire narrative flows like a river, taking the reader along with its smooth flowing current. When you finish the book, it won’t be surprising If you find yourself drenched in the words for long.
2. Harry Potter Series – J.K. Rowling
I cannot imagine a must-read list without Harry Potter. So here it is. Beginners, read on, and those who have already read it, simply enjoy good things being said about your favorite piece of written work. Based on a wizard boy named Harry Potter, this is a tale that explores friendship in its purest form along with courage and sacrifice, and shows that love is the most powerful magic of all. This is that rare series that is perfect for every age.
A must-read book for die-hard romantics, this blooming love story between a quadriplegic and his nurse will set your heart racing. It’s a peculiar mix of happiness and sadness set in the backdrop of a heart-winning story. It’s good 500 pages long, but once you start, you will forget the length, and truly experience the sheer joy of reading this wonderful tale.
4. The Guide – RK Narayan
I think this is R.K. Narayan’s most stand-out work, of course, apart from Malgudi Days. It has also inspired a Bollywood movie with the same name starring Dev Anand in the titular role. It chronicles the journey of a notorious tourist guide, whose fate and circumstances turn him into a holy man- by name not deed. Full of a love affair, failures, successes, and unwavering wit, this novella is packed with everything you call pure entertainment along with a generous dose of wisdom.
5. The Shiva Trilogy – Amish Tripathi
Another favourite with must-read book lists, the Shiva trilogy is every mythological fiction lover’s dream come true. Based on Lord Shiva, the story is woven from the fantasy of the writer that feels relevant even in today’s time. This three-part series feels both complete and incomplete as you want to follow what happens to the central characters even after it all ends.
That’s it from my side. If you have long lost touch with reading, these can prove to be great picks to again start living moments through the pages.
