5 Favorite Books

Let me state a given fact about me: I. LOVE. BOOKS. I have two shelves full in my room (and am currently trying to find a bigger bookcase) and two boxes full under my bed, waiting on said bookcase.

Asking me to pick a favorite book is a near impossible task. I have so many that it would be a very long post indeed were I to list them all. So, I have picked 5 I have re-read over and over, each time finding new details. I do have some honorable mentions, though:

-All Louisa May Alcott's books
-the Redwall series by Brian Jacques
-The Ranger's Apprentice series by John Flanagan
-Lizzy and Jane bu Katherine Reay
-Lorna Doone by RD Blackmore
-Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens
- All Jane Austen's novels

As mentioned, it was hard to pick only 5 books to list. These hold a special place in my heart, and will always have a home with me. I hope I can convince you to add at least one of them to your reading list.

5. The Romanov Sisters by Helen Rappaport

This was a Christmas present from my mother. I have long been interested in the Last Tsar and his family, especially the fate of the sister and Alexei who were missing when the others were found in 1979. It was long thought that Anastasia, the youngest sister was the one missing. But in 2007, the two bodies were found and the missing sister was actually Maria. I love history, and Ms. Rappaport has done a stellar job in making each sister come alive in these pages.

4. Joan of Arc by Mark Twain

I'll admit, I was a little wary of this book when I came across it at Goodwill. But Joan of Arc is another favorite historical figure of mine, so I gave it a try. I was pleasantly surprised to read that Mr. Twain held a life-long admiration for Joan, and took great care to ensure all historical facts were as accurate as possible. The story is told through the eyes of one of Joan's childhood friends, who also accompanies her on the journey leading to France's release from English rule. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, although I hesitate to place this in that category.

3. The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy

Often called "The Original Superhero", this book holds a special place in my heart. I first read this in high school and frequently re-read it, discovering new details each time. I have both movies adaptions and two other books in the series, with plans to add the rest over time. Sir Percy makes me laugh with his foppish behavior and cheer him on in his missions. At first, Lady Blakeney made me angry with her treatment of her husband, but I soon realized both were at fault for the rift in their marriage. The final chapters finish the story out nicely with a good serving of suspense and danger.

2. El Dorado, also by Baroness Orczy

This is the second installation in The Scarlet Pimpernel series, and the only reason I enjoy it more that the first is the ending. I went into a book coma after reading this; I had no desire to read another book for a week once I finished this, the shock was so great. Let's just say that Baroness Orzcy leaves us in no doubt that Sir Percy will do whatever necessary to save his wife.

1. Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay

I was introduced to this book by Ashley. This girl has gotten me hooked on so many musicals, books, authors, and shows, I've started inwardly cringing when I hear the words "You've GOT to (read, watch, listen) to _____". But I am always grateful, in the end, of her recommendations. God gave me good friends when I met Ashley and her sister Katie.

This book is written in a similar style as Daddy Long Legs, but is set in the present day. I so empathize with the heroine, and the hero is wonderful - flawed, and not afraid to admit it. As the title hints, there are several references to Jane Austen's works, which only makes it better. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys JA and modern adaptions of the classics. 

Did any of these titles strike your interest? Let me know if you've read any, and what you thought! I covet your comments.

Katelyn