What makes March 2nd significant? If you are an avid reader, you might know that March 2nd is National Read Across America Day. Though the day has already come and gone, it is never too late to pick up a good book and start reading! We put together a list for kids and adults, so we hope you find the book (or two) that is perfect for you!
Kid's Picks
1. Charlotte's Web, E.B. White
Charlotte's Web is a wonderful book that appeals to both children and adults. According to Publisher's Weekly, as of 2000, Charlotte's Web was the best selling children's paperback book of all time. The story follows the friendship of an unlikely pair, Wilbur, the pig, and Charlotte, the spider. It is a heartwarming book that is definitely a must-read for people of all ages.
2. Digging for Troy: From Homer to Hisarlik, Jill Rubalcaba and Eric H. Cline
This book is perfect for any history lover! It offers a condensed version of the Iliad, and then takes a look into different aspects of the story of Troy. It dives into the legends, as well as the on-going search for facts about the legendary place. It is left up to the reader whether or not the legend is true.
3. George's Marvelous Medicine, Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl wrote screenplays and also wrote for television shows, but his children's novels are some of his best works. Several of his books have gone onto become very popular movies (i.e. Fantastic Mr. Fox, James and the Giant Peach), but George's Marvelous Medicine has always been a personal favorite. It is a whimsical story about a boy, and the magic medicine he makes that alters his family's farm animals... And his grandmother.
4. Goosebumps, R.L. Stine
Goosebumps is actually a series of books, but beware: They are not for the faint of heart. R.L. Stine is the master of frightful fiction, and any book in the Goosebumps series is sure to please, while still being appropriate for children. You may remember the series as a television show, but the books are so much better. From shrunken heads to werewolves, there is not scary stone unturned.
5. Furious George Goes Bananas: A Primate Parody, Michael Rex
At just 32 pages, this book is ideal for younger children. It is a quick and easy read, and a comical spin on a children's classic. It is Michael Rex's humorous interpretation of Curious George, as if the title doesn't give that away. Make sure your kids are familiar with Curious George so they can have fun pointing out similarities between the two stories.
Books for Adults
1. A Thousand Splendid Suns, Khaled Hosseini
You may recognize the author's name from his more famous novel (and just his first), The Kite Runner. A Thousand Splendid Suns, Hosseini's second novel, is wonderful. It follows the lives of two very different Afghan women, and how their lives cross paths. It is beautifully written, and the way the characters are woven and connected is amazing.
2. The Happiness Project, Gretchen Rubin
This is a great book for anybody that has found themselves in a winter funk. It was a New York Times #1 Bestseller, and is guaranteed to make any reader happy. The book chronicles Gretchen Rubin's pursuit of happiness in her everyday life. She takes cues from old adages, explores scientific studies, and more. If you are looking for a book that will make you smile, look no further. The Happiness Project is sure to make you happy within the first few pages.
3. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Stieg Larsson
This book, one of three Larsson novels that were published posthumously, was first a success in Europe before making the leap to America. Now, you can't go to a book store in the country without seeing this on the shelves. It is a crime novel that is the first in Larsson's "Millennium Series." The book has won several awards, and has been made into a film. But reader be warned, it does deal with some sensitive subjects.
4. Marrying Daisy Bellamy, Susan Wiggs
For any reader out there with a romantic side, this novel is wonderful. The story follows Daisy Bellamy, and her two suitors. One is practical and perfect, while the other is wildhearted and a little rough around the edges. Daisy struggles with her choice, until it is surprisingly made for her. This book is definitely a must read for 2011, and a great story of American romance.
5. Committed, Elizabeth Gilbert
Many of you may be familiar with Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert's most (in)famous book. Committed is a follow up to that book, and a great one at that. The divorcee who had sworn off marriage forever gets an order from the US Government: she and her lover could either get married, or Felipe would never be allowed to enter the country again. She confronts her skepticism about marriage, delves into her ambivalence towards it, and ultimately makes peace with it. It is a fascinating read for single and married people alike.
