Five Books Everyone Should Read is a feature we’re running in 2015. We’ve asked some of our favorite authors, readers and bloggers to share five books that touched them or have stayed with them throughout the years.
KindleGal is another Twitter friend who has a fantastic blog and has similar reading tastes so we’re big fans of hers. She’s here to share her top five book picks.
“Five Books Everyone Should Read,” aka the evilest guest blog topic ever. Like many others before me, I happily accepted Holly’s invitation to do this before realizing what an insane task it really was. FIVE books and ZERO parameters?? Eep.
In the end, I chose my five, and collectively, it might seem like a really odd list. After all, I’ve been predominately a contemporary romance reader the past few years and there is only one romance on my list. But the task was five books everyone should read, so I went with some of the most impactful books that have stayed with me over the years for one reason or another.
Here goes (in no particular order)…
The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins
Is this cheating, naming an entire trilogy as one of my five? Probably, but I’m willing to risk it because it’s the trilogy as a whole that makes this a must-read recommendation.
I realize a lot of people may have already read these books, but for you holdouts and those who have only seen the movies (bad bookworm, BAD!), I urge you to give them a try. They are so intelligently written, with fantastic world-building and a plot that keeps you turning the pages. But what I loved most, and why they are on my list, is that hidden underneath the suspense of a great action adventure/thriller, there are endless statements about how this horrific dystopian world might not be so different than ours.
I honestly think every middle school student should read and discuss these books. It shows the ugly side of what happens when a society becomes obsessed with vanity, is entertained by watching other people fail spectacularly, believes whatever they see/hear in the media, and allows others to suffer so long as they feel/remain safe. See where I’m going with this? Yeah.
I love that the protagonist is a girl who is imperfect. Broken, even. She is also insanely brave and strong, and the way she demonstrates all of these traits over the course of the trilogy is simply beautiful.
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
(Yes, I’m cheating again.) Do I really need to explain why this series is on my must-read list? In fact, some of you may be wondering why it needs to be on my list at all, since everyone has already read it. Au contraire, I know a few people who continue to resist reading this series, including one of my blogmates! GAH!!
This series is simply magical. Born from a vast imagination, the world of Harry Potter is one that swallows you up whole as you read the adventures (and misadventures) of the orphan wizard who, along with his friends, grows up before your very eyes. The world-building is phenomenal, and while the stories are far from perfect (some more than others), I am certain they will stand the test of time and become classics that my children’s grandchildren will enjoy.
Just for funsies, here are some bits of goodness that can be found in the pages of this series:
“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” — Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” — Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if only someone remembers to turn on the light.” — Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
“If you want to know what a man’s like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.” — Sirius Black, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss
Okay, stick with me here … Have you read this story recently? As an adult? Do it.
This book is all about life’s ups and downs, and although it’s technically a children’s story, it really speaks to adults. It reminds us that life isn’t always going to be easy; we might get stuck in the Lurch, end up in a Slump, and there may be times we are in—gasp!—The Waiting Place. But despite these inevitable bumps in the road, there is optimism and hope. Always hope.
Yes, it’s simplistic. Perhaps even a tad childish and trite. But for most people, it’s the perfect pep talk and reminder that “life is a great balancing act” and to not despair.
Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism by Dr. Temple Grandin
This was a somewhat impulsive Half Price Books buy for me 19 years ago. I’d just started graduate school and had an interest in neuropsychology and learning disabilities. I didn’t know much about autism at the time and found this read utterly fascinating. In it, Grandin, a gifted animal scientist with high-functioning autism, tells about her experiences as someone who views the world in a very concrete and visual way, touching on how this impacts her social interactions, but more significantly, how it led her to apply this perspective and understanding to help revolutionize the way livestock are humanely handled across the country. While so many books talk about how to “cure” or “manage” autistic tendencies, this was the first one I’d read that showed how the mind of someone with autism was an asset.
Fast-forward 11 years to my oldest son’s diagnosis on the autism spectrum.
While there are many aspects of my son’s experience that are different than Grandin’s, I firmly believe Thinking in Pictures laid the foundation for me to better understand and appreciate my son’s unique gifts. Because of this, it will always be on my list of books everyone should read.
P.S. There is a biopic—Temple Grandin, starring Claire Danes—based on parts of this book. It won several prestigious awards several years back.
A Lot Like Love by Julie James
Have I given y’all whiplash yet? Two YA titles, a children’s story, nonfiction psychology, and now … a romance! (I’ll be honest, I was tempted to name the entire FBI/US Attorney series here, but I figured I’ve already pushed my luck…)
It’s kind of a no-brainer that the only romance on my list was going to be one by Julie James. She has owned me ever since I inadvertently picked up my very first romance a few years back (Practice Makes Perfect).
I chose A Lot Like Love for this list because it contains: a “tall, dark, and smoldering” undercover agent; a whip-smart, snarky heroine who can easily hold her own with anyone, anytime; a pretend boyfriend plot; memorable secondary characters; a little suspense; a little romance; and loads of sarcastic, quippy banter. Oh, and did I mention the heroine owns the city’s top wine shop? Yep. Clearly I was destined to love this book!
A Lot Like Love might very well be my all-time favorite contemporary romance! The plot is airtight, the pacing perfect … I honestly can’t think of one thing I dislike about the story or characters. And if you know me, that is saying something.
Kindle Gal’s Bio
Kristi is best known around the web as Kindle Gal because her Kindle Paperwhite is her BFF—she has it on her person 24/7. She is the founder of Kindles & Wine Book Blog, which has won numerous awards and is known for its highly selective and eclectic taste, reviewing across all genres and always providing a beverage pairing to go with each read.
When Kindle Gal is not blogging or drinking red wine, she works as a freelance editor. She is also a wife and mom to three amazingly loud (but adorable) boys.
You can connect with Kindle Gal on her blog, Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter.
What an interesting list, Kindle Gal; thanks for sharing. I’ve actually read most of your choices save for the Temple Grandin book and some of the latter series books. I’ll admit that the Julie James book is a big favorite of mine.
Clearly you have great taste in books, Kareni. 😉
Hi Kindle Gal! *waves* I absolutely, totally agree with you on Julie James’ book, that one is definitely one of my faves. Love the banter between Nick and Jordan, James is just so good with her writing. I know I can always count on her books to be just the right amount of funny, sexy and memorable. Very interesting that Practice Makes Perfect was my first from her too! 😀
I have to admit I’ve only seen the Harry Potter and Hunger Games movies and I’ve not read the books. Yes, I’m a bad bookworm! *hanging head in shame* Seeing a Dr.Seuss book always brings me back to my childhood and going to check out books at the local library. The Temple Grandin book is one I haven’t heard of before. Thanks for sharing your five!
Hi, Anita! *waves back* 🙂
I had a really hard time deciding which Julie James book to list because there are so many of hers I love, including PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. You really can’t go wrong with any of her books, though, which is why she tops my romance auto-buy list.
And you really need to read the Harry Potter books. The film adaptations of the Hunger Games books so far are actually quite good, but I think you miss the real wonder of the world and depth of the story in the Harry Potter movies, especially the early ones. (That’s just my humble opinion. 😉 )
Hello Kindle Gal! I have to agree with the top 3 listed.. I’ve read them all as will my kiddos. Lol. I’m interested in A Lot Like Love… It sounds great! I love snarky, funny leads.
Hi, Heather! One of my happiest days was when my 8-year-old started reading HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE and couldn’t put it down. Made my bookworm heart sing! 🙂
You have to read A LOT LIKE LOVE. I just know you’ll love it!
I absolutely love your list. I’ve read all of them except for the Julie James book, it is on my TBR list. I had Dr Grandin for one of my classes at CSU, she truly is an amazing woman.
Oh wow, Sarah! What a privilege it must’ve been to have Dr. Grandin as a professor!
Thanks for the list Kindle Gal!
Sure thing, Elizabeth. 🙂
I think I’ve read all except Thinking In Pictures.. What good taste we have! 😉
Great minds, alwaysbooking… 😉
Love your selections!
Thanks, Marissa Ann! 🙂
I love Julie James and have all her books. I even have one autographed.
Me too, Leanna. And probably the most thrilling moment for me as a reviewer was unexpectedly finding myself quoted in the front matter of SUDDENLY ONE SUMMER. I couldn’t believe it!
I really enjoyed your list. Harry Potter, Dr. Seuss, & Julie James – how could anyone go wrong. I’ve heard of Life In Pictures but I”m not sure if I’ve read it. I’ve taught kids with aspergers so I was always looking for support in teaching them. I haven’t read the Hunger Games and am not sure I ever will. It just isn’t appealing to me as it’s not the type of genre I enjoy. Thanks for sharing here Kindle Gal!!
Thanks, eawells, and thanks for all you’ve done as a teacher too. 🙂
Well I agree with 2/5. I love Oh The Places You’ll Go. I think everyone should have this in their home.
Now you’ve got me curious, 2kasmom … Which is the other book you agree with me on?
I agreed with A Lot Like Love. Why anything by Julie James is magnificent. I know the other choices are popular, but…not my thing.
I enjoyed your blog and will have to catch up one day and read the books on your list. I have to say, I haven’t read any of them! Awful, I know. I read mostly fiction for years, then in the past 5 years (after Katrina – 10 years this month! – and my mother’s death – 5 years this June) I try to read only happy, romance books. There is enough sadness in real life. I have been told that Julie James is a wonderful author. I have to put her at the top of my “to read” list. I do love Dr. Seuss. Can’t say honestly if I would read the others, but you make a good case for me to try them one day.
Thanks, Judy. For the past few years, I’ve been like you, preferring to end my days with HEAs rather than angsty reads. That said, well-written angsty ones tend to stay with me longer for some reason.
Anyhoo, definitely put Julie James at the top of your to-read list. Her romances are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. 🙂
Well, I’ve wanted to read Hunger Games, saw the movie.. Read one Harry P. probably Dr. Seuss . Interesting selections..
I’d encourage you to read THE HUNGER GAMES, DK. While the film adaptations are well done (the second film, CATCHING FIRE, the best of the bunch so far), I think the impact of the story and social implications I mentioned above is far greater in the source material.
I would love to read Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism by Dr. Temple Grandin
I hope you get the chance to, Ann. I guarantee you’ll learn something from it.
Very good recommendations….you are spot on!
Thanks, Paula! 🙂
Love the Harry Potter books. Never read the Hunger Games books but my kids and husband have. Love Dr. Seuss but have not read the other two books. Hi Kindle Gal!
Hi, Sue! *waves*
I honestly can’t believe you haven’t read the Julie James book. Haven’t you been following my blog all this time?! 😉
Yay for Julie James making the list!! I think I would have gone with About That Night only because that was the first of the FBI/US Attorney series I read and Kyle’s totally one of my all-time favorite book boyfriends but the entire series definitely would make my list 🙂 Haven’t really read any of the other ones (or watched the movies) as I’m mostly a stick to my romance books kinda gal.
Hi, Ada! Love seeing my fellow Julie James fangirls here. 🙂
Honestly, I could’ve done a “Five Books by Julie James Everyone Should Read” post. She’s only written 8, and I would’ve struggled deciding which ones to exclude.
Thank you for the list. I read Hunger Games and some of the Dr. Seuss books with my kidd
You’re welcome, Milena! Thanks for commenting. 🙂
I totally agree with your Temple Grandin choice. As a Special Educator, she made me take a look at how my kids reacted in a whole new way. I have loved every Harry Potter book and Hunger Games as well. Dr Seuss is a classic choice which every preschool teacher holds close to her heart. Having said all of that, I must now read Julie James!!
Yes, Shelley, you MUST read Julie James! 🙂
Thanks for your comment and for all your work with your students. I was a school psychologist for several years (before I had kids of my own), and I know firsthand how important and special the work is that you do.
Spot on with your recs! I have read that particular Julie James novel, but a good romance is never remiss on any list. 🙂
Thanks, Katie! 🙂
Love this list, girl! They each bring a little something different to the table which is awesome! I’ve actually read all but the Temple Grandin and am adding to my TRL as we speak! Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks so much, TTaTOT! I hope you enjoy Grandin’s memoir.
Great List. I have not read Julie James (I have no idea why), but I clearly need to! And now I’ve been introduced to another blog 🙂
I have no idea why you haven’t either, Lauren! Get on that, will you? 😉
And Book Binge is a fantastic blog! It’s one of the very few I follow.
Thanks, Kindle Gal for your suggestions! Julie James’ FBI/USA Attorney series has been on my wish list since she started the series. I keep looking for them at book sales so I can start the series. The Hunger Games is also on that list but I know I can get those at the library. Harry Potter are all on a special shelf awaiting full retirement.
So much to look forward to, JoAn! I can’t wait for you to start them. 🙂
Goodness… I’ve never read Julie James, but she’s on my list now! I admit to picking up the first Harry Potter while on a long layover and once reaching my destination, I made my husband (then boyfriend) take me to a bookstore so I could pick up the next three that were out. Wonderful series. I can’t wait until my daughter is old enough to experience it!
My 8-year-old finally started reading Harry Potter on his own this summer, and I had to check myself from getting overly excited and obnoxiously asking him all about it. (It was sooooo hard!)
And goodness, yes, Monica … you MUST read Julie James! 🙂
great list. I always like to add a few literary classics like P&P and GWTW
Denise
Oh, believe me, Denise, there were so many other books/genres I could’ve added to this list. 😉
Love your choices! Temple was going to be talking in western Kansas really soon (or just happened). She is quite a woman!
Thanks, Darlene! It’d be amazing to hear her speak in person. She is definitely inspirational!
I have read actually three on your list. I’m glad you put the whole series of Hunger Games as one, because they are better as a whole unit. They complete each other. Let just say, I was upset with the ending of book 1, that I didn’t want to complete. I had to ask my friends is there a happy ending and does she get with one of the guys otherwise I’m not finishing. They told me the ending and I continued. However, I liked 3 the best. I have read Harry Potter and enjoyed the series. I like all the places. I wish I had thought of what one parent did for their child for that book. They got every single teacher the child had signed the book and gave it as a graduation present. I do own A lot Like Love on my kindle. I just need to get to it. I have never heard of Thinking in Pictures.
I think you are the very first person who’s told me they like MOCKINGJAY the best in the trilogy, Melody! 🙂
And that is a fantastic graduation gift idea! I may need to do that for my own kids.
Well I guess I’m in luck, I haven’t read any of the mentioned series. I hope I get a chance to win one.
I hope you get a chance to read these series too, Gail, even if you don’t win this time around. 🙂
It looks like I need to read A Lot Like Love!
Yes you do, Paige! 🙂
Wow, I read all but one! I was one of those people who said “I’m never going to read HP, it’s about wizards.” Ha ha to me, I read the first one and couldn’t read the series fast mouth! Thanks Kindle Gal, great list!
Thanks, Pat! I’m glad you took a chance on those wizards. 😉
You’re right, your list is pretty diverse! I totally concur with the Harry Potter choice. And I too love Julie James. She’s never written anything I don’t LOVE.
Julie James fangirls unite! 🙂
Love your list KG! I have to admit that I still haven’t read the Hunger Games Trilogy, but maybe I can get the oldest to read it with me. 🙂
I know that you and your oldest would have some fantastic discussions while reading the trilogy together, Sunny. DO IT! 🙂
Great list! I’ve not read anything by Julie James, but I think I need to add “A Lot Like Love” to my Goodreads To-Read list! Thanks!
Yes, Kristen, you do! If you are a fan of contemporary romance, you won’t regret it. 🙂
I think HP series is a must for every age. Loved the Hunger Games series and the movies were also nice as an addition.
I agree, Tammy. I’m not sure I’d like The Hunger Games movies as much if I hadn’t read the books first. The moments that stood out for me in the trilogy were far more powerful in the books than in the movies (at least so far).
Definitely agree with A Lot Like Love. It has intelligent characters with witty dialogue.
Exactly, Kim! 🙂
Have read The Dr Seuss book and Julie London’s as well, started the Harry Potter series but I think I only read two of them – never could quite figure out why they were so…so! Maybe I’ll get to them again, someday; same with the Hunger Games. Too many other good books out there for now!!
I think the Harry Potter books (and movies) get better right after the point you stopped, Sandy. 🙂
I’ve read most of your picks. I loved your intro to A Lot Like Love. I may have to give it a try.
Oh! I forgot to ask. Kindle Gal, have you read inside out?
And no, I haven’t read INSIDE OUT. Should I?
I hope you do try A LOT LIKE LOVE, Christie! 🙂
I love the sense of adventure and “outsider status” that links your picks!
Interesting, Connie … I never looked at them that way, but you’re right! 🙂
I love Harry Potter and dr Seuss, A Lot Like Love and the Hunger Games I haven’t tho. I may have to put them on my list ! kathambre@yahoo.com
I hope you do, Kathy. 🙂
I follow you on facebook and subscribe to you also. I would love to win one of the five books that you recommend on the blog. You have a diverse selection of books. I love that you have Dr. Seuss with young series. Thank you for the giveaway.
Thanks, Tammy! 🙂
Great list! Haven’t read the last two…
Thanks, CPhilippou123! 🙂
Every time someone recommends the Harry Potter series, I tell myself I need to move it up on my TBR. I am one of the few people that still hasn’t read it 🙁 Thinking in Pictures sounds fascinating!
Definitely move it up, Courtney. Especially if you’re in the mood for something different. 🙂
what an interesting list! I (sort of!) agree, at least with your general premises. Definitely Harry Potter – I think they will stand for generations as tried and true books to return to time and time again. The Hunger Games trilogy was good, but I feel like the author didn’t fulfill her potential in the third book. I’d maybe switch it out for the Chronicles of Narnia, but I know that’s a very personal favorite not as much in vogue anymore. I’d give two thumbs up to Oh the Places You’ll Go (hoping that whoever took this list to heart would acknowledge Horton’s fidelity as well!) and though I’ve never read Thinking in Pictures, you’ve managed to persuade me of its worth. And I’ll grant you Julie James, though I’d personally switch her out for a Julia Quinn. Brava!
Thanks, Margaret. And I should note that I didn’t necessarily create my list from my all-time favorite books. I’d probably only consider 2 of the 5 “favorites.” They are simply five titles/series that have stuck with me for a long time for one reason or another and I believe are worth reading. 🙂
I completely love the first three picks. Harry Potter would be my top read for everyone as well. I haven’t read the last two, but I’ve wanted to read Thinking in Pictures.
Thanks, Jennifer! I hope you get a chance to read Grandin’s book someday.
I like some of the picks and some I wouldn’t be all that interested in.
I totally respect that, Cece. 🙂
I agree with most of your list….but I’m going to be in the minority of people who have never read read the Harry Potter books. I’m sure I would love them but just can’t talk myself into reading them now that I have seen all the movies. The rest of your list is greatness.
Thanks, TBL! And I get that, totally. I have no idea how I’d feel if I’d started with the movies first. I just know that for me, the books were a much richer experience than the movies. 🙂
Thank you Kindle Gal thank you for the chance I would love to read A Lot Like Love love this site!! You find new authors and new books to read!!
You’re welcome, Debbie! Book Binge is a terrific blog, isn’t it?
I loved your picks…but I do enjoy a great horror story every once in a while. Thank you for reviewing my book, Inventing Madness! Stephen King’s Carrie, Misery, Dolores Claiborn and The Green Mile are all wonderful classics…but Lonesome Dove and The Joy Luck Club are two books everyone should read…and read again.
That was my blogmate Liz who reviewed your book, Joyce. 😉
Ah Kindle Gal, what a wonderfully eclectic list. I have read most everything on it and concur on your choices. The one that stuck out for me is Dr. Temple Grandin’s book. I’m currently developing an in-service on Autism Spectrum Disorder for my work (I’ve worked with the population for almost three decades – Yikes! I’m old!), and love working with this population. Dr. Grandin (and her work), is amazing. Have you read, “Why I Jump” by Naoki Higashida? Great read, as well. Great choices!
That is so fantastic, Deb! I haven’t read WHY I JUMP but am putting it on my TBR right this very second. 🙂
Ha! It was already on my list. And the title (in case anyone else is interested) is THE REASON I JUMP: THE INNER VOICE OF A THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD BOY WITH AUTISM.
What a great thought provoking list! I love Harry Potter and have read the series several times. It is also responsible for getting both my husband and youngest daughter reading. My daughter has since gone on to read The Hunger Games and loves it too, I must admit I’ve never felt the need to read it or see the films, sorry.
Like you, I also love Julie James and have read everything she has written, again, several times! My favourite is Something About You, well it does have Jack Pallas in it!
I must admit I’m intrigued by Thinking in Pictures, working in a school I think it would be very enlightening.
Thanks, Elizabeth! I think everyone who works in the schools should read a book from the perspective of someone with autism, as well as other disabilities. I guarantee it would be enlightening! 🙂
Hello Kindle Gal!! I would definitely agree with the first 3. I will be checking out the other two that’s for sure!
Thanks, Joy! 🙂
Definitely an interesting list. Since I’m long past the YA category, I’m interested in reading the Julie James title. I read a lot of romance & biographies, but I haven’t ever picked up a Julie James book. Thanks for the thoughtful recommendations.
Oh boy, I’m long past the YA category too, Rita! 😉
And if you read a lot of romance, then you absolutely need to try a Julie James book. My favorite 3 are A LOT LIKE LOVE, LOVE IRRESISTIBLY, and PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT.
Hi Kindle Gal. I am a retired librarian and I agree with your picks because they were and still are wildly popular and well circulated (The Hunger Games and Harry Potter); they cover a terrific subject and person (Autism and Temple Grandin); and nothing can compare with a Dr. Seuss! I am not familiar with Julie James but your synopsis makes me want to read A Lot Like Love.
Thanks for sharing!
Connie
I love this comment, Connie. Thank YOU! 🙂
Wow, impressive list. And I’ve not read most of them. Throw my name in the hat please.
Will do, Gail. 🙂
Fond memories of the Harry Potter books – read them with my nieces and nephews and listened to Jim Dale’s wonderful narrations of the stories.
Oh, thanks for reminding me about the Harry Potter audiobooks, Mary! I agree, they are so, so fantastic!!
I like all the books you have chosen. Nice variety. Have read the Harry Potter books, but would love to give this to grandchildren. Such a great giveaway. Thank you so much.
Thanks, Barry. I think gifting Harry Potter to your grandchildren is a wonderful idea! 🙂
Practice Makes Perfect was my first Julie James book & I continue to enjoy the banter. I like your diverse list.
Thanks, KV! Her books are truly banter-ific!! 🙂
I watched the Temple Grandin movie on television when it first aired and it has stuck with me. I still reference it sometimes in conversation, because it was so poignant. As much as a reader I am, I haven’t thought to pick op her book. Thank you for the recommendation.
You’re welcome, Terrill. And I haven’t watched the biopic yet, but I really should. It’s been so long since I read the book, it’d be a great way to revisit it.
Wow, not what I was expecting! It surprises me that the book on autism is that old. It would be interesting to see what has changed since then.
I agree, it would, Terri. And I guess I’m just full of surprises. 🙂
I have not read the entire Harry Potter series or the Hunger games series. I think I will give them both a try.
Moonbay7399@gmail.com
I hope you do and enjoy them both, Candace! 🙂
I’ve read Harry Potter and the Dr. Seuss. Have never read a Julie James. Will have to check that out. My kids have hounded me to read Hunger Games. I’d have to say my all time favorite was To Kill A Mockingbird. It’s tough to only pick 5! Good variety in your choices.
It was SUPER TOUGH to only pick 5, Amy! And like I’d mentioned in an earlier comment, this isn’t a list of my all-time favorite books. These are just ones that have stayed with me a long time for one reason or another and I think people should read.
Good choices. I’ve read all except I haven’t finished the Hunger Games Trilogy. My favorite Julie James FBI/US Attorney book is actually the first one. And I’d put a few other books on my list of essentials, including 4 of Jane Austen’s novels and ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’
I think A LOT LIKE LOVE isn’t a very common favorite choice in that series (I usually hear most people like SOMETHING ABOUT YOU best too), but I like to be different. 😉
And if the topic was “all-time favorite books,” my list would’ve included a Jane Austen novel too, Anne.
I love the Harry Potter series!! Julie James is on my TBR list.
Yay, Kim! I love seeing Julie James on people’s TBRs. 🙂
Great list KG! I’ve read 4 of your 5 & loved them! it seem that more of my friends have children that are on the Autism spectrum lately that I may just have to check out Dr Grandin’s book.
(BTW, I love your blog!)
Thanks, Sassi! I hope you get a chance to read THINKING IN PICTURES too. 🙂
Great list! I’ve been trying to come up with my own list and the Harry Potter and Hunger Games series both would be in my top 5 as well. Dr Seuss is pretty much always amazing and I’m intrigued by the other two…I’m embarrassed to say I’ve somehow missed Julie James and clearly she writes books that I would love! Time to load up the Kindle and plan an epic binge session. I can pretty much always count on K&W to give me great book suggestions and fill my Kindle to the brim! I’m excited to discover Book Binge and add another fun reading site to my favorites 🙂 *waves goodnight*
Omg, Courtney … I feel like I have failed as a blogger if you haven’t read Julie James yet. You would ADORE her books!
And yes, definitely add Book Binge to your favorite blogs to visit. They are one of the very few I follow and trust.
Great list. I have read all but the Temple Grandin one. Not sure Hunger Games is on my list though. Julie James had me on her first one too!
I feel like we should have a club where we all introduce ourselves by saying which Julie James book was our first. 🙂 So which one was yours, Angela?
I love Julie James’ books. She is an outstanding author.
So much Julie James love in the comments! You are so my people, Catherine. 😉
Amazing list! I love that you picked two series. Heh!
I know, I’m a rebel. 😉
I’ve read or listened to most on your list. Thanks for the great post!
Sure thing, LilMissMolly! 🙂
Love your eclectic list! I’ve read the first 3, but not the other two. I will definitely be starting the FBI/US Attorney series soon.
Yay! I’d love to hear what you think of it, Nicole. 🙂
I agree with you 100% on # 1-4. I guess that means I need to go out and get #5!
Yes you do, mythredwink! 🙂
Hi Kindle Gal, I could be a failure in your eyes. I have never read The Hunger Games or Harry Potter series. I’ll need to re-read Oh, the Places You’ll go seeing my kids are now in there early 30’s. I have heard of Temple Grandin because my daughter fundraises and volunteers for a group in Chicago. I definitely love Julie James.
You’re not a failure, Pamela! It just means you have lots of good reading ahead of you. 😉
I’m with you on the first 4 selections. I honestly can’t say that I remember reading Julie James, but I plan to rectify that tomorrow! I loved the documentary on Temple Grandin that came out a few years back. As a former Special Ed Resource teacher I had 16+ years of students on the spectrum, so I was tremendously excited to read her book. I love your blog, too.
Awesome, ktbeeblog! Thanks for all the work you did in the schools!
And if you read Julie James, you’d remember it. So get going on that, woman! 🙂
Hi Kindle Gal!
You picked some really good books and a great variety of them! Something for everyone 🙂 I am not familiar with the Temple Grandin book, but I am sure some of my friends and family who are Special Education teachers are. I will definitely have to check and see if they are and if not pass on the recommendation.
Thanks, June! 🙂
Varied selection.
Yep, that’s me. 😉
Great picks Kindle Gal!
Thanks, Mayra! 🙂
I love THE HUNGER GAMES and HARRY POTTER. Dr. Seuss is pure genius. All of his books should be read by adults.
It’s amazing how simple his stories appear to be and their appeal to young children, yet for adults, there is another layer of significance to them. Quite brilliant indeed, Mary!
I love the variety in your list! I still haven’t read the Harry Potter books (my husband is so disappointed in me), but I’ll get there eventually…I love that you include a contemporary romance, too–my favorite genre. I’ll definitely have to give Julie James a read! Thanks for sharing!
If contemporary romance is your jam, Christy, you MUST read Julie James. I think she is one of the very best in the genre!
Great list! I haven’t finished the “Hunger Games” trilogy but I am enjoying it so far. I will pick up the two Julie James books you mentioned – always on the lookout for new authors!
Thanks, Denise! I’m always happy to introduce new readers to some of my favorite authors. 🙂
I have no interest at all in the Hunger Games or Harry Potter. Of the others I have The places you’ll go. I also give it to my friends kids that are graduating 8th grade and High School. The only one I haven’t read is Julie James. Thank you.
I agree, it’s a great graduation gift! 🙂
What a wonderful list, Kindle Gal!
I’ve read a bit of the HP books & movies. I did see the HG movies, not the books. Hadn’t read the TG book nor watched the movie. Dr. Seuss is an excellent author and you picked a wonderful book of his, though I’m partial to the iconic GREEN EGGS AND HAM book.
Julie James and her books, especially the FBI/Attorney series, is a great pick! I even have the book you picked in my TBR/TBRR list (the second one is re-read). I also want to read her latest one, whenever it may be in the future.
Again, a wonderful post, Kindle Gal!
Thanks, erahime! I’m always looking ahead to Julie James’s next book too. 🙂
Hi Kindle Gal! This is a great list. I have read the first three on your list but will have to pick up the last two soon!
Thanks, Shannon! 🙂
Hi, Kindle Gal! Interesting list you have there. I would have liked it more if it had included a historical romance but no one is perfect . I’m not familiar with Julie James, so I’ll need to remedy that soon.
LOL, Tonya! It’s no secret I’m not a big historical romance reader despite my blogmates Emily’s and Liz’s efforts to convert me. While I’ve read some that I’ve liked (Kleypas and Quinn), none have stuck with me long enough to make a list like this. At least not yet. 😉
Great Selections!!
Thanks, Orsayor! 🙂
Wow KG, this list is different from what I thought you’d list, but interesting for sure. I admit I’m a Harry Potter holdout too. Reading them doesn’t interest me at all…
I’m not a big sci-fi or fantasy reader, so the list looks kind of strange to me too, Lesley, LOL. I guess it’s just proof that sometimes it’s good to step outside one’s comfort zone and read something different. 🙂
I think we have a lot of book love overlap 🙂
Clearly we both have great taste, Ashlea. 😉
I’ve read the YA ones and I’ve read a book by Temple Grandin, but not the one you’ve listed. Also, I’m participating in a year-long romance genre study with a group (library staff in our network) and contemporary romance is our first topic for discussion, so thanks for the Julie James recommendation!
Oh awesome, Laurie! I’d love to hear more about your romance genre study. Will you be publishing your findings anywhere?
Our group has a blog! It’s at https://rartsoutheastma.wordpress.com/ Last year we did the mystery genre.
Nice! I’ll definitely check it out. 🙂
I’ve really wanted to read a book by Julie James. This is giving me a push to buy one.
Oh, I’m so glad, Jen! I hope you enjoy it! 🙂