While non-fictions make for a great read, in our hearts, we’re all truly inclined towards that obscure fictional hero who helps us leave our mundane routines just for a bit. Journeying into the mind of a writer is somewhat relaxing for so many of us – the joy of leaving behind our lives for a little while to step into someone else’s. To jog our minds out of corporate hellfire, we’ve curated a list of fictional works that we think would work wonders for you on an otherwise boring day.
To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee
This one is a classic that upheld the strong racism culture in 1930s America. The story follows Jean Louise Finch, a six-year-old who witnesses her father a wise, honest lawyer facing all kinds of trials from racist society for defending a black man in court. Lee unfiltered brings out the worst of racism, changing the perceptions of many at that time. It didn’t become a Pulitzer Prize winner for nothing. Read it once, and you will want to read it again.
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
Miles ahead of her time, Austen wove a love story that would make rom-com lovers swoon over it for decades to come. She takes us on a snarky enemy to lovers story between a strong-willed Elizabeth Benett and the uptight and aloof Fitzwilliam Darcy. The story gives us a peek into 19th century England where marriage for women to gain security was of utmost importance. Fun, and light, while pointing out the flaws of 19th century England society, it’s a book that’s worth your time. Give it a read and we assure that you’d be looking for a certain Mr. Darcy in the 21st Century.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist walks you through self-discovery but in a fictional way, covered in twists and turns of mysticism and wisdom. The book has been described as an allegory for the deeper meaning and purpose of life. Written in two weeks, this classic of Coelho went on to become an all-time hit and was translated into over 70 languages. The work revolves around the Andalusian shepherd boy, Santiago, who in search of treasure finds greater meaning in life.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Although there’s a movie based on this novel, we recommend you take the old fashion route and read the book to truly feel the emotions of Amir, the protagonist. Hosseini began writing this book after the Taliban banned kite flying in Afghanistan. Amir looks back on his life and recounts events from 25 years ago and how the past came finding him, demanding atonement. It’s a story of true friendship, betrayal and ultimately about making the right choices.
Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell
While the book does have a lot of romance going on, mainly between protagonist Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler, it’s the ambitious journey of Scarlett O’Hara that takes center stage in this novel. The way she tackles hardships, deceptions, and rises over failed relationships to establish her company in that era of the American Civil War – is hella inspiring. It’s the ultimate girl power literary work if you skim off the romance.
I’ll Look For You, Everywhere by Cameron Capello
Now this is a story that is all about love and is a perfectly easy, fun read. Two childhood friends cum ex-neighbours, Theo and Magdalen return to the town for a marriage, and emotions are running all over the place. Romantic tension, twisted with secrets from the past, it’s a great leisure read for your Sunday afternoon.
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
Another classic written in 1967, infuses magic, and the real world in possibly the best way. Márquez creates a blend of mystical beings, folktales, wars, and real-world incidents. It begins with a Buendía family’s life, shaping out over seven generations, and ends when the entire family is wiped out of existence. One thing’s for sure, as unique as Marquez’s works, this one cannot be boxed into a specific genre.
The Burial Plot by Elizabeth Macneal
Macneal sets the stage right with a backdrop of crime-tinged 1968 London, where the leads Crawford and Bonnie try to survive through illegal means and improper tricks, but the real plot begins when Bonnie starts as lady’s maid for the eccentric Mr Moncrieff. Secrets unravel and doubts rise as Bonnie makes her way through the Moncrieff family. Designed with deceptions, murder, and mystery at every step of the story, you won’t be able to rest till you’re done with it – plus a goth theme? Count us in.
