Squishing in time for pleasure reading can be especially challenging for high schoolers. With classes assigning books and tons of homework, most students don’t tend to pick up a book in their free time. However, sophomore Emily Kiernan works hard to fit reading for pleasure into her daily bedtime routine. She says that, “Reading allows me to take a break from the stress of the real world. I tend to read a book of my choice before bed instead of going on my phone because it helps me fall asleep faster.” Last year, I made a goal for myself to commit to reading for pleasure during the summer or school breaks. Although I didn’t get to nearly as many novels as I would have liked, allowing myself to relax into a great book improved both my reading skills and overall mood. By varying the genres and discovering what truly engages me, I compiled a list of the three best novels I read in 2023. Enjoy!
Instructions for Dancing – Nicola Yoon
Bestselling author Niclola Yoon, time and time again, never fails to disappoint me. Her romance novels, including The Sun is Also a Star and Everything, Everything, are perfect for a relaxing beach read. Instructions for Dancing centers around two teenagers, Evie and X, and their budding romance, which begins at La Brea Dance Studio. You can’t help but smile while watching X and Evie’s friendship slowly progress to something more. In this book, Yoon does something truly unique with her ending which left me eager for more. A must read for people looking for a different romance novel.
The Summer of Broken Rules – K. L. Walther
The Summer of Broken Rules really did stick with me because instantly after I finished, I bought another one off Walther’s novels, What Happens After Midnight. The Summer of Broken Rules takes place on the local island of Martha’s Vineyard where Meridith Fox regularly spent her summers prior to her sister’s tragic death. Now, she is back on the island for a family wedding which includes the tradition of playing the game, Assassin. Although Meridith isn’t looking for anyone new, she can’t help but falling for one of the groosman. What sets this novel apart from other romances is the driven plot that Walther works to create. Personally, this is a must read for people looking for a vacation book.
Unbroken – Laura Hillenbrand
Personally, I was a little unsure at the idea of picking up a heavy historic book right after school ended. However, I was compelled to read this book and once I started, I simply could not stop. Unbroken follows the story of a former Olympian Runner named Louis Zamperini. Based on a true story, the novel explores Louis, an Army Air Force lieutenant, and his experience both lost at sea and then in the hands of the Japanese during World War 2. Sophomore Jake Varholak explains that he loves learning about World War 2. He says that “The topic really interests me, more than other historic events. The book, Unbroken, as well as it’s movie really exceeded my expectations.” Before reading, people should be aware of and prepared for the intensity of the material. However, this should not discourage people from picking up this novel. After reading, I watched the film adaptation and truly do recommend this captivating novel.
