Read something

By Nikolina Hatton

Between episodes of “Date My Mom,” ice cream, parties, and venti Starbucks mochas, it’s safe to assume a student’s brain can rot over the summer. However, there are those who would rather not have this happen, and even those who actually want to get caught up on some reading.

Sometimes you can think about a book for days afterwards – it’s like drinking too much coffee on an intellectual and emotional level. The problem often is, not should I read, but what should I read. There are multiple sources out there with good books for different types of people. However, I suggest delving into the British side. For a tilted education on different eras in English history and society, look no further. Here are some ideas for the history geek to the hopeless romantic:
“Beau Geste” – This novel by Sir Percival Christopher Wren offers an unashamed account of three brothers joining the French Foreign Legion, braving deserts, Arabs and murderous comrades. There’s diamond theft, devilish commanding officers and enough English “honor” to set you up for a week of relatively easy reading.

“The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe” – Though written for children, “The Chronicles of Narnia” is a masterpiece by C.S. Lewis. The novels offer a bit of fantasy, adventure and gorgeous imagery; you will definitely want to have afternoon tea, and, the most beautiful part is, you won’t walk away with a headache. “Wardrobe,” the first one Lewis wrote, is a good place to start.

“Hornblower and the Hotspur” – Horatio Hornblower is one of the most enveloping characters you will ever come in contact with, especially if you have an interest in sailing and the Napoleonic wars. C. S. Forester wrote 10 novels on the fictitious sea hero. You follow his rise through the ranks of the late 19th century British navy. It will make you want to hop onto the set of “Pirates of the Caribbean” and shoot some Frenchmen.

“Pride and Prejudice” – In case you didn’t know, the movie is based on a book. If you liked the movie and want to tackle a little regency English, the book is a great read. Along with Austen’s fresh story about a snobby gentleman and independent lady, you come to appreciate Austen’s great insight into human nature, wit and cutting dialogue.

“The Hound of the Baskervilles” – Over 70 years after his death, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective character continues to awe. This novel has a bit of horror and tons of interesting twists. Doyle’s short stories on the detective are great for the non-committal reader and offer a fast payoff of pleasure because of their shortened length.

If you like British lit, culture, and history, check these out; if you don’t know if you like it, and have only read modern works, these will give you a good feel for 19th and 20th century English life.