As the rainy weather continues day after day, students look for comfortable activities to keep them occupied. To escape the chill outside, many Bears choose to pick up a captivating book to immerse themselves in.
Junior Amanda Jennings explained that the most memorable series she has read recently is Chloe by Design by Margaret Gurvich. The series follows the story of Chloe, a young fashion designer who aims to achieve her goal of landing a spot on a local reality show featuring teen designers. “I thought the writing style was really nice, and it was enjoyable to read about a teenager who’s able to do a lot of different stuff than I can, and can experience their own issues,” Jennings noted.
Creative Writing teacher Maria Angelone is currently reading The Book of More Delights by Ross Gay, a sequel to the first book of the series Book of Delights which delves into the different aspects of life and the importance of sharing bonds with one another. Angelone explained, “Reading his books makes me appreciate the world more, see the world in a different way, and overall makes me a happier person.”
English teacher Anton Gerth recalled his favorite book from the season: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. “It was a lot of fun to read since it was from the perspective of a fictional octopus character, while there are also other stories interwoven between the characters,” Gerth said.
Sophomore Emma Mulcahy considers Play It As It Lays by Joan Didion her favorite book this winter. The novel features the life of a recently divorced actress, and her life after a traumatic event. “It was really interesting to read when I was on vacation in Hollywood since the book was set in Hollywood,” she noted. “I also liked how I got to experience the book from the main character’s point of view and learn how she navigates through her mistakes.”
Senior Eva Grant’s favorite book is from their English class, AP Literature. “I enjoyed reading Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The humor was really interesting,” they said.
Sophomore Karina Gadre recalled When a Ghost Talks; Listen by Tim Tingle as her most enjoyable novel. This fictional novel examines the afterlife of a young boy after losing his life on the Trail of Tears, and his impact on his family and friends. “It’s been fascinating to read about the historical and spiritual aspect of the book,” she said.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir is Algebra teacher Laurel Simons’ favorite book from this season: presenting a story about the depths of outer space, and completing missions. “It was a very cool type of outer-space book about how we could possibly interact with aliens,” she explained. “The writing style was great, and I liked how the author just kept letting us know enough to keep wanting to read the book.”
Junior Ava Banks chooses romance novels to keep herself entertained. “Recently I’ve been reading It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover. The romance features the back and forth of a young woman and her experience with domestic abuse. So far, it has had weird twists and turns that are really unexpected,” she explained. “I also like how the main character has developed over time.”
Senior Sabrina Ortiz recalled The Cruel Prince by Holly Black as one of her most interesting novels. Following the magical story of a young faerie, the book reveals secrets, hidden enchantments, and curious people in the Faerie world. “I liked how I could see into the character’s thoughts, and I also liked how the main character was tough and strong,” she said.
If any of these books or series interest you, check them out at the M-A Library or your local library to enjoy while cuddling up with a hot cup of tea.
