Sacred Selections: Classic Book Recommendations

Here are some of our favorite classic books! 

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Jarad Recommends....

Of Human Bondage- W. Somerset Maugham
 
I read this book some time ago, but it remains one of my favorites, mostly for the gorgeous writing. The plot itself is good, but nothing revolutionary. The writing, however, is what sets it apart. Because of that, it's a book you can easily lose yourself in. 

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The Brother's Grimm

The original fairy tale are so much better than the Disney versions- these are dark, cautionary tales meant to terrify children. Cinderella's sisters lose their heels in an attempt to fit into the glass slipper, as well as frequent murders, killings, and decapitations. In my opinion, Disney should've stuck to original text, but they probably wouldn't have caught on. Oh well. 

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The Scarlet Letter- Nathaniel Hawthorn

Now, this is a book whose writing I wasn't a huge fan of. But the importance of the book is extremely relevant to the times we're living in. Really, as long as there has been sexism and inequality this book is relevant. It's up to the reader as to where Hawthorn stands, but I see the book as a commentary on the treatment, demonization and subjugation of women. 

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Julie Recommends....

The Secret Garden- Frances Hodgson Burnett 

I recommend the Secret Garden. Why? Because....Secret Garden. And I have a very private back yard that I plan to turn into a secret garden as soon as I can afford a fence. Is it a children's book? This means nothing to me as I never matured beyond a preference for happy endings. The story follows an unpleasant and unhappy little girl who is brought to life, along with her sick, spoiled cousin, by a garden. This story rings true for me. 

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Morty Recommends....

One Day in the Life Of Ivan Denisovich- Alexander Solzhenitsyn 

Why? It's a painful reminder of how cruelly humans use power when they get it. Don't read this as merely a commentary on communism. It's a parable about the end result of giving the power of life and death to a strong man. The description of the Siberian labor camp is distressing not only for the hunger and the impossible physical conditions, but the insanity and absurdity of the make-work, the hierarchy of dunces. 

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Bio
Jarad is the co-administrator and writer for Sacred Chickens, attends college at MTSU, loves tea and coffee, and tries to spend every spare second reading. He recently developed an interest (some might say obsession) with gardening. Jarad is an English major with a concentration in literature.  Bless his heart!  Let's all light a candle for him and send him happy thoughts!

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