The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho 

“The Alchemist” follows the journey of Santiago, a young  shepherd, who dreams of finding a hidden treasure located near the Egyptian pyramids. Along his journey, Santiago encounters various characters and experiences that contribute to his personal and spiritual growth.

The novel is deeply philosophical, exploring themes such as destiny, dreams, and the pursuit of one’s “Personal Legend” — the unique purpose or destiny that each person has in life. Santiago’s quest becomes a metaphor for the journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

Famous quotes from this book include :

“The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.” 

Then there’s the most famous one – 

“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

A Thousand Splendid Suns – Khalid Hosseini 

The novel is set in Afghanistan and spans a period from the Soviet invasion in the 1970s to the Taliban regime and post-Taliban rebuilding. It primarily focuses on the lives of two women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways.

Mariam, an illegitimate child, grows up in a harsh environment, while Laila, a young girl from a more privileged background, faces tragedy during the war. Circumstances bring them together, and despite initial challenges, they form a deep and enduring bond. The story explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, resilience, and the impact of war on women.

“Like a compass needle that points north, a man’s accusing finger always finds a woman. Always.”

Animal Farm – George Orwell 

George Orwell uses a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer as a metaphor for the events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent Soviet Union. The story reflects Orwell’s criticism of totalitarianism( a form of government that prohibits all opposition parties, outlaws individual and group opposition to the state and its claims and exercises an extremely high degree of control and regulation over public and private life ) and the corruption of political ideals.

Animal Farm is celebrated for its powerful critique of political systems and its timeless relevance to discussions about power, corruption, and the abuse of authority. It’s a cautionary tale that has been interpreted in various ways over the years, making it a thought-provoking and enduring work in literature

Famous Quotes from this book include :

“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others”

“War is war. The only good human being is a dead one”

To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee 

The book introduces people to sensitive topics like a child’s awakening to racism and prejudice.

The novel explores themes of racial injustice, morality, and the loss of innocence. As Atticus fights for justice in the courtroom, Scout and Jem witness the harsh realities of racism and prejudice in their community. Atticus imparts important life lessons about empathy and understanding, teaching his children to see the world from others’ perspectives.

Famous quotations include : 

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb into his skin and walk around in it”

“Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don’t eat up people’s gardens, don’t nest in corncribs, they don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”

The Guide – R. K. Narayan

“The Guide” is set in the fictional town of Malgudi and revolves around the life of Raju, a charismatic and enigmatic man who becomes a tourist guide. The story is narrated by a fictional writer, who is intrigued by Raju’s life story. The novel unfolds in a non-linear fashion, revealing Raju’s journey from a young man to a spiritual guide.

It reflects his keen understanding of human nature and his ability to weave a compelling narrative with a touch of humor and deep philosophical insights. The novel explores the complexity of human motivations and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives. “The Guide” has been celebrated for its rich characterization and its exploration of moral and spiritual themes.

In conclusion, diving into the world of books is not just an activity; it’s a journey that enriches the mind, nurtures the soul, and broadens horizons. Through the pages of literature, we embark on adventures, explore diverse perspectives, and find solace in the written word. Let the pages turn and the stories unfold, for in the realm of books, there’s a universe waiting to be discovered and embraced.

You can also try : Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

Also Read : Recent Technological Advancements in India 

I read Fictional because reality is just too real… duhh