If you're a novel reader, this one's for you. I've read over 500 books since my dad gifted me a kindle when I was 14. I've always had a passion for creativity, so naturally, I enjoy a good read. With that being said, here is my list of the top three books I've read that are not required to be read for school and have still taught me endless lessons.
Looking for Alaska by John Green
In this New York Times Best Seller, the story is told by a young Miles Halter as he enrolls in a new boarding school to try and gain a deeper perspective on life. In his time there, he meets the beautiful Alaska Young, who he falls madly in love with while she leads him through his own "labyrinth of suffering." Alaska dies unexpectedly, which leads Miles to work through his own internal sufferings, as he and his friends try to uncover the mystery behind her death.
John Green puts a fresh take on life and love and how its not always as it's cracked up to be. The beauty of this book is it tells the story of what growing up is really like, without sugarcoating it. It portrays the long lasting effects people have on one another in an honest perspective. This is not your standard boy-falls-in-love-with-girl novel, but instead shines a light on all relationships in the most brilliant and captivating way.
All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
In this novel, the scene takes place in 1934 in France during World War ll. The story is about a blind French girl and a young german soldier whose paths eventually cross. Marie-Laurie goes fully blind at age 6, and her locksmith father goes to extraordinary measures to compensate for her loss of sight. The story goes back and forth between past and present time, as it takes you through the daunting tragedy that is WWll. A young German soldier named Werner Pfennig is trapped in the ruins of the city in which Marie lives. Doerr strings ties between the two as the story unfolds, creating an intricate web of brutal and elegant circumstances.
This book won a Pulitzer Prize in 2015 for fiction, and rightfully so. The story makes you think, and takes you through just about every emotion possible. It tells the tale of two lost souls in a very lost time, while tying them together to produce a very dramatic storyline.
See Me by Nicholas Sparks
In another New York Times Best Seller, Nicholas Sparks once again outdoes himself. The story is about a once-troubled Colin Hancock, who is seeking a second chance at life. Putting his violent past behind him, Colin is eager to start fresh. In comes the Heroine Maria Sanchez, a dark-haired, intelligent beauty who has a seemingly spotless track record. They find their way to each other and fall in love, as they overcome the obstacles of Maria's past. The book tells the story of two people trying to protect their love, as past history sneaks up behind them.
I don't think Nicholas Sparks needs any sort of introduction, but I'll give him one anyway. The #1 New York Times Best Seller never fails to please his audience, and I am more than pleased. This book is creative, suspenseful, and rich with emotion, as Sparks takes you through the troubled path of these two lovers. With his many books-turned-movies, I wouldn't be surprised if you see this in theaters in the near future.
About the Creator
Keep reading
More stories from writers in Geeks and other communities.
Book Review: "The Queen" by Andrew Morton
You're probably wondering why on earth I would read this book. It was free and it was a fair length. That was basically it at first. But another reason is because I enjoyed the show The Crown and so, it only makes sense to read a book that goes through separating facts from fictions - and to be fair, there aren't a lot of fictions about the show it seems. From the birth of the little princess and the way in which her father was reluctantly to become the king, all the way to meeting and marrying the veteran prince, Duke of Edinburgh and even down to the death of her father, queendom and beyond, this book actually gives us a lot about a woman who basically embodied the greatness and modernisation of the British 20th Century.
By Annie Kapur7 days ago in Geeks
Amitabh Bachchan Wouldn’t Allow Anyone from the Industry at His Home After 8 PM, Kept That Balance Between Work and Family Life, Says His Co-Star
Amitabh Bachchan is not just one of India’s most legendary actors; he is also known for his discipline, professionalism, and commitment to his family. A recent statement from one of his co-stars has revealed a fascinating detail about how Big B maintained a strict boundary between his work and personal life—something many in the film industry find difficult to achieve. According to the co-star, Amitabh Bachchan wouldn’t allow anyone from the film industry to visit his home after 8 PM, no matter how close the relationship. This rule reflects a side of the superstar that fans rarely see: a man who fiercely protects his family time, even while juggling an incredibly busy career. Amitabh Bachchan: The Work-Life Balance Icon The Bollywood industry is notorious for long hours, late-night shoots, and endless socializing. In such an environment, personal life often takes a backseat. However, Amitabh Bachchan has managed to maintain a remarkable balance. His co-star explained that this 8 PM rule was not meant to discourage friendships or professional relationships. Instead, it was a way for him to prioritize family, meals, and relaxation at the end of a long day. The actor has always emphasized that family comes first, and his home is a sanctuary away from the glitz and demands of Bollywood. A Family Man at Heart Big B’s commitment to family is well-known. Over the years, he has often spoken about the importance of spending time with his children, grandchildren, and wife, Jaya Bachchan. Despite the immense pressure and fame, he has always made sure that his personal life is structured and respected. By setting such boundaries, Amitabh ensured that: He could have quality time with his family Personal routines like meals and reading were not interrupted His children felt secure and grounded despite the limelight This approach has often been cited as one of the reasons for the strong family bond that the Bachchans share. The Co-Star’s Perspective The co-star, who has worked closely with Amitabh on multiple projects, recalled how strict yet respectful he was about this rule. Even close friends and colleagues knew not to cross the 8 PM limit. The co-star emphasized that Big B’s professionalism extended beyond work—it was about creating a life that allowed both career success and personal well-being. This attitude is rare in the film industry, where late-night visits, parties, and gatherings are often considered part of the culture. Amitabh’s choice highlights that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of family or health. Lessons from Amitabh Bachchan’s Discipline Amitabh’s 8 PM rule is more than just a quirky habit—it’s a lesson in work-life balance that applies to everyone, not just celebrities. In today’s fast-paced world, people often struggle to separate work from personal time, leading to stress and burnout. Amitabh’s example teaches that: Boundaries are essential – Saying “no” at certain times preserves mental and emotional health. Family comes first – Even with a demanding career, personal relationships deserve priority. Consistency matters – Rules work only when they are consistently followed. Professional respect goes both ways – Colleagues understood and respected his boundaries, which strengthened relationships. Big B’s Life Beyond Work Outside of his professional commitments, Amitabh is known for reading, writing, and engaging in philanthropy. He frequently shares updates about his family and daily life on social media, giving fans glimpses into his private, balanced lifestyle. The 8 PM rule is part of a broader pattern: despite fame, he chooses structure, prioritization, and mindfulness. It’s a reminder that even the busiest lives can accommodate peaceful personal time. Why Fans Admire Him Even More Fans of Amitabh Bachchan often focus on his powerful performances and commanding screen presence. However, stories like this show another side: a man who is grounded, disciplined, and devoted to his family. For many, this reinforces why Amitabh is not just a superstar, but also a role model for life outside the spotlight. His co-star’s revelation adds a human touch, showing that even legends need and enforce personal boundaries. The Takeaway Amitabh Bachchan’s decision to keep industry friends away from his home after 8 PM may seem small, but it reflects a larger philosophy. He demonstrates that personal well-being and family relationships are just as important as professional success. In an era where work often spills over into every hour of the day, Amitabh’s approach serves as a valuable example for all. By creating clear boundaries, respecting personal time, and prioritizing family, he shows that balance is possible even in the most demanding careers. Conclusion Amitabh Bachchan is a living legend, not just for his contributions to cinema, but for the way he navigates life with discipline and care. The 8 PM rule is a small but powerful insight into how he manages fame, relationships, and personal space. As his co-star observed, this balance between work and family life is part of what makes Amitabh Bachchan truly remarkable—not just a star on screen, but a man who values life beyond the limelight. For aspiring actors, professionals, and fans alike, his example offers a lesson in discipline, respect, and the importance of family. In the end, it’s not just talent or fame that defines greatness—it’s the ability to live a balanced, meaningful life.
By Fiaz Ahmed 4 days ago in Geeks
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.