World Book Day (1 March) is a worldwide celebration of authors, illustrators, books, and reading. To mark the occasion, our Young Ambassadors have each selected a book that has made a lasting impression and shaped them as a person. From assassin adventures to coming-of-age dramas – how many have you read?
‘All Dogs Have ADHD’ by Kathy Hoopmann
Jessica Alleguen, Year 12, East Norfolk Sixth Form College
‘With its inventive methods of explanation and quirky comparisons, this book truly helped me through a phase in my life where I did not understand myself. With each characteristic of ADHD, there is a dog picture to accompany it; clarifying through both words and pictures, enabling those of all ages to comprehend ADHD. Thanks to this book, I’ve grown up understanding and accepting my disorder without the use of medication.’
‘Brave New World’ by Aldous Huxley
Nathaniel Gilson, Year 12, Norwich School
‘Brave New World by Aldous Huxley is a book I think everyone should read. The fact that it doesn’t feel too far removed from the world today shows how powerful a vision of the future it is, especially given that it’s 70 years old. It causes you to question both its world and ours, and to wonder whether “dystopian” is truly accurate.’
‘Throne of Glass’ by Sarah J Maas
Karris McGonigle, Year 12, East Norfolk Sixth Form College
‘“What would happen if Cinderella was an assassin sent to kill the prince?” This beautifully written series follows Celeana Sardothien, an assassin freed from shackles, as she plays a dangerous game surrounded by her ultimate enemies. A tale woven with mystery and magic, love and defeat; delve into a world you will never want to leave.’
‘Turtles All the Way Down’ by John Green
Grace Murray, Year 10, Norwich School
Turtles All the Way Down is an exceptional and poignant book; it deals unflinchingly with mental illness from the point of view of a teenager. The book follows Aza, in first person, who has OCD. Along the journey you become a part of her ‘thought spirals’, which are described – and therefore felt by the reader- as “tightening, infinitely”. John Green captures perfectly what it is like to be on the cusp of adulthood, making others feel less alone.
‘Elizabeth is Missing’ by Emma Healey
Rebecca Smith, Year 12, East Norfolk Sixth Form College
‘Elizabeth is Missing follows the story of a woman suffering from dementia who is trying to uncover her friend’s disappearance. I’d recommend this book to my friends who think adult literature is boring because the narrative style continuously leaves the reader guessing.’
‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ by Margaret Atwood
Emily Webb, Year 12, Thorpe St Andrew Sixth Form
‘Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale is a beautiful piece of literature for more mature readers. The storyline focuses on a dystopian post-nuclear society where fertile women are put on a pedestal for the repopulation of the human race, without the women consenting. It is brilliantly conceived and executed and is shrouded by images of emptiness. It can be seen as a warning for what we should never become and is an important and interesting read for this reason.’
‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ by Robert Louis Stevenson
Alice Wollocombe, Year 10, Norwich School
‘Ahead of its time and increasingly relevant in today’s febrile political landscape, this Victorian novella tackles the complex enigma surrounding man’s dual nature and whether one can be defined by superficial characteristics. Its timeless and notorious storyline explains the expression ‘Jekyll and Hyde.’ Although brief, the complex language and structure provide a challenging yet compelling read. Ideal for aspiring readers.’
‘I Capture the Castle’ by Dodie Smith
Amelia Platt, Year 10, Litcham School
‘I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith explores sensitively the transition from child to adult. Written as a diary it tells the story of Cassandra Mortmain as she navigates growing up and first love. Published in 1948 this book is relevant today. It captures the conflict between childhood and the excitement of adulthood. A perceptive book perfect for any person who has ever felt lost.’
Which book made you?
Send your picks via Twitter @WritersCentre using the hashtag #WorldBookDay