Wonder – R.J Palacio

2012

August “Auggie” Pullman lives with a facial deformity that affects the way people perceive him. This book chronicles the story of Auggie going to middle school and learning to find his way in the unforgiving world he lives in. Along with Auggie’s story, Palacio offers insight into the minds of the other characters, who to most people live normal lives, but in reality face many personal struggles. “Wonder” sends a message to readers to accept their imperfections and to smile while doing so. 

“AUGUST PULLMAN’S PRECEPT

Everyone deserves a standing ovation because we all overcometh the world. –Auggie”

Harry Potter – J.K Rowling

1997 – 2007; Series

Through seven installments, Rowling successfully narrates the battle between The Boy Who Lived and He Who Must Not Be Named. Over the years, Harry and his friends prove themselves by fighting against dangerous villains and always prevailing. This series has strengthened the fantasy genre in the eyes of millions of people across the world.

“Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, 

but why on Earth should that mean it is not real?”

The Outsiders – S.E Hinton

1967

Set in 1965 Tulsa, Oklahoma, the town where Hinton lived, “The Outsiders” tells the story of a gang called the Greasers—Ponyboy, Dallas, Johnny, Sodapop, Darry, Steve, and Keith. After finding themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time, Johnny and Ponyboy are forced to run away and lay low. Upon their eventual return, they face many clashes with the other side of town, controlled by a rival gang known as the Socs. 

“Stay gold, Ponyboy. Stay gold.”

A Series of Unfortunate Events – Lemony Snicket (Daniel Handler)

1999 – 2006; Series

After a tragic accident, Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire are left orphans and are forced to move around from house to house with strange guardians. Along the way, the siblings must outsmart the evil Count Olaf, who wishes to take their inherited fortune away. 

“All the secrets of the world are contained in books. 

Read at your own risk.”

Percy Jackson & the Olympians – Rick Riordan

2005 – 2010; Series

This series follows the adventures of the teenage Percy Jackson, as he copes with the discovery of who his father is: Posiedon, the greek God of the Seas. As he spends time in Camp Half-Blood, the only safe place for demigods, and his newfound home, he befriends other demigods that aid him through his journeys and in fulfilling his destiny of making a critical choice. 

“A single choice shall end his days 

Olympus to preserve or raze”

Artist: Geliza Paunan