Books

1. Roald Dahl's Danny, the Champion of the World

Even though Roald Dahl's works are all masterpieces, this one has a particular place in my heart, as it is one of the first books I remember reading for myself. As a kid, I absolutely fell in love with the book- the dynamic between the kind-hearted father and the ever-curious boy is both admirable and fascinating. I adore it and it adores me back. When I was at first hesitant, this book helped me fall in love with reading.

You can buy it here.

2. George Orwell's 1984

A fantastic, relatively easy-to-read book that criticizes the nature of society and enculturation. It was also a big step in transforming me from a hard-working, earnest boy to a complete cynic in middle school, which had a immensely negative impact on my life throughout high school. I took the books themes too far and learned my lesson. Still love the book though.

You can buy it here.

3. Isaac Asimov's Foundation

A smart collection of connected short stories that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. The book made me fall in love with science fiction and giant space empires and advanced humanity. It is, without a doubt in my mind, my favorite literary work and, despite its somewhat hostile nature, the foundation (pun intended) of many of my current philosophies.

You can buy it here.

Other notable works from my past include Ender's Game, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, The Phantom Tollbooth, A Wrinkle in Time, and The Hobbit.