Novel Idea: Best of 2013-2017

As my senior year comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on many of the books I’ve enjoyed during my time in high school. From science fiction to mystery and everywhere in between, there have been many high-quality stories published during my years at Glenbard West. Some of these books I’ve reviewed for this book review column and others are stories I’ve enjoyed on my own. With that said, here are some of my favorite books published from 2013-2017:

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell (2013)

Rainbow Rowell illustrates characters both obsessed with the fiction and yet forced to cope with reality as fanfiction-writing, college student Cath deals with both personal and academic conflicts with creativity and heart.

The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (a.k.a. J.K. Rowling) (2013)

When a famous supermodel’s suicide is called into question, anyone could be a suspect. This detective fiction novel by the pseudonymous author of the Harry Potter series will keep you guessing about the outcome until the very end.

The Martian by Andy Weir (2014)

Andy Weir combines science fiction and witty humor to present a thrilling adventure about the struggle to survive on the barren planet of Mars.

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins (2015)

Paula Hawkins melds unreliable narration with rotating perspectives to keep the reader guessing with several plot twists you won’t see coming.

Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff (2015)

Kaufman and Kristoff’s uniquely formatted post-apocalyptic sci-fi tale told entirely through emails, text messages, and files sees characters coping with the destruction of their world while combating corruption and evil anew.

Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman (2017)

Neil Gaiman presents a historical yet fresh take on the legends of Norse mythology with this collection of short stories.