Sophie’s World

Sophie’s World, by Jostein Gaardner, is the perfect introduction for anyone who is interested in learning about philosophy. While the novel explains a breadth of abstract philosophical ideas, it is easily understood and written to be entertaining and relatable to the lives of young adults. Gaardner’s style is not overbearing nor abstruse, and its fictitious nature provokes interest in the philosophical world. The protagonist of the novel, Sophie, is a young girl whose discovery and interest for philosophy is documented and explained by an anonymous mentor. As a reader, you will follow alongside Sophie in her journey of curiosity and enlightenment.

-Amanda Hmelar

Bradbury Stories: 100 of His Most Celebrated Tales

“Bradbury Stories: 100 of His Most Celebrated Tales,” is a compilation of short stories written over the 60 year span of the author’s illustrious career. It’s likely that many associate Ray Bradbury with burning books and ninth grade English class, but don’t write him off just yet. This book offers 100 different ways to fascinate the reader with themes of human nature, reincarnation and the great potential of our civilization’s future. Each tale drips with vivid imagery and a child-like wonder that makes this collection completely unforgettable. The mysterious style of Bradbury’s writing often leaves the story’s ending up to interpretation, allowing each reader to establish their own unique connection to his tales. The best part is that no story is longer than 10 pages, so it’s easy to make time for even in our hectic high school lives. With 100 stories to choose from, there’s no doubt that you’ll find something that speaks to you. My top picks are“The Man,” “The Burning Man” and “The Swan.”

-Chiara Biondi

Kanye West Owes Me $300: And Other True Stories From A White Rapper Who Almost Made it Big

“Kanye West Owes Me $300: And Other True Stories From A White Rapper Who Almost Made it Big” is the memoir of author and former rapper Jensen Karp (formerly Hot Karl). The book details Karp’s great leap into the world of rap, his rise to near stardom and his abrupt fall from it. Karp’s writing style is outrageously funny, and his take on the world of rap and the music business as a whole is worth taking note of. Karp also reveals himself to be a talented lyricist, as demonstrated through raps he wrote that are included in the book. If you are looking for a funny and touching story that details an epic musical journey, this memoir is for you.

-Gabe Cohen

Kurt Vonnegut: Letters

“Kurt Vonnegut: Letters” is a collection of Kurt Vonnegut’s letters to his family, friends, editors and publishers, and it’s a delight to read. Vonnegut was a cheerful, matter-of-fact cynic — he liked to say, “We are here on Earth to fart around, and don’t let anybody tell you any different.” This book, filled with endlessly interesting writing, is a direct look into his unguarded thoughts and feelings. This book contains the letter he wrote to his parents after being released as a prisoner of war, one he wrote to his friends after their son died and countless other snippets from his fascinating life. His letters are sharp, funny, deeply moving and definitely worth reading.

– Ahana Ganguly