1. The Princess Bride
by William Goldman
Want More?For those who've seen the movie and read the book, try Cary Elwes' As You Wish, where he shares behind-the-scenes stories about his experience in the making of the film. Plus, the book jacket on the hardcover edition can be reversed for a cool poster. |
2. A Monster Calls
by Patrick Hess, Siobhan Dowd & Jim Kay
Need to Recover?The Monster at the End of this Book will make you smile, but only if you read it aloud in a Grover voice with exagerated arm movements, with young children laughing nearby if possible. |
3. Chalice
by Robin McKinley
Need More Robin McKinley?
4. The Sculptor
by Scott McCloud
More Like This?Blankets is a coming-of-age tale about a boy and his first relationship. Set in winter, the illustrations are lovingly crafted, almost zen as some points, and creates a great backdrop for this emotional tale. Again, mature themes present throughout. |
5. I Am The Messenger
by Markus Zusak
More Zusak?Most are introduced to Zusak through his highly acclaimed work The Book Thief, and yes, it is as good as everyone says. The story of a girl during the Holocaust, told from the perspective of Death, is unflinching and utterly human - it is a must read, must own book. |
6. Bradbury Stories
by Ray Bradbury
Want a Longer Tale?Try The Halloween Tree, which has some of the classic Bradbury themes - childhoood, small-town life, adulthood and death - in a story about seven boys saving their friend's life, while woven into the origins of Halloween. Fueled by pure sugar excitement, a perfect tale for the holiday. |
7. RASL
by Jeff Smith
7. 5 Bone |
8. The Bloody Chamber
by Angela Carter
For a Younger AudienceFor those looking for a return to the darkness of fairy tales, but less explicit themes, I recommend Valiant by the amazing Holly Black. Urban fantasy at its finest, it blends our modern world and faerie skillfully with a cast of unique and empathetic characters. |