WBD Survey 12

We're almost at World Book Day, and here are more books from our survey (there will be plenty of recommendations after it too - they're really stacking up). Still time to fill in the form here. Popping up again and again are To Kill a Mockingbird and the Hunger Games books by Suzanne Collins.

Margie: To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
It considers everything- growing up, parents and children, moral and ethical choices, racism, the "other," suspense, law and order, strength of character, unselfish love- through rich characters you love and hate and a plot filled with suspense and emotion. I can't think of much more that could be created so skilfully within the covers of one book.

CAN : Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
I loved the writing, the characters, etc. All linger with you long after the book is over. Several of the stories - "Starving,' "Little Burst," "Incoming Tide" - have imprinted themselves on my heart. My students have loved them as well.

Maggie: Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin
Elsewhere could easily fit in the category of coming-of-age novel, but for the problem that the main character is dead and she is growing younger every day. Still, Liz learns all kinds of important lessons in Elsewhere!  I've never met anyone who didn't enjoy this book, and I have shared it with nearly 1000 students since it was published.

JY: The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
It is a cross between 1984, Mad Max Thunderdome and reality T.V. It grabs you from the start and then is full of twists and turns. I usually don't like reading series books because the second and third are usually knock-offs of the first book, but with this series, I could not stop until I had read all three!

And also recommended by Karen:
I choose this series because it seems to be universally appealing - to readers and non-readers alike. Some of my students who have never finished a book before on their own often read this entire series. The story and characters are captivating to people of all ages.