Our favorite stories say more about us then it does the author who wrote them. Why? Because they stick with us, they shape us, they make us braver and wiser than they left us. Or at least they should.
I write my stories largely for myself. It's something I have to say, the beatings of my heart. But I also write them for you, the readers. I create these stories to inspire hope and courage just like other stories sparked in me.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians and The Hero's of Olympus series by Rick Riordan. These books tough me what a hero is, and that anyone can be a hero. The first series, as we follow Percy Jackson and his friends, we learn that he is just like many of us. He is just 12 years old in The Lightning Thief, and proves smart and strong though young, like many of us. Then as we meet other characters in the series we see more and more of ourselves in them and how they overcome and grow stronger though hardships and battles with monsters. While not many (or any) of us will ever have to fight a Ethiopian draken or take the life of a cyclopes, we do have our own monsters we fight daily. Whether that be Depression, a abusive relationship, or a chronic illness. Stories like this show how we to can, and are, heroes.
Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling. Okay, I could ramble about these iconic books for hours, but I'll spare you the boredom. (If you want to know what I think about them in detail, ask me in the comments.) While many Christians don't agree with these books because of the witchcraft, I'll repeat what many others have said. It's not about the magic, it's about the messages on friendship, bravery, the hardships of war and how it leaves orphans and so much more. It's about being yourself, being strong enough to stand up to your friends when they are making the wrong choices, to fight against oppressive authority and learn how to fight for yourself if no one else is there to protect you. J. K. impacted generations and inspired so many.
There are other books that have strong messages of bravery, self love, honesty, loyalty, friendship, and standing up for what you believe in. Legend series by Marie Lu is about finding what, or who, you believe in and fighting for that and protecting your family. Uglies series by Scott Westerfield has powerful messages on beauty, friendship, and figuring out where your loyalties lie. The Grisha Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo is about finding out how far you'll go, who to put your trust in, and if maybe having someone to love and who loves you is worth more than all the power one could wield.
Parents, if your kid tells you how much they love a book or book series, it means something to them and you should take the time to invest in that. Through reading or listening to them talk about it you can learn a ton about them.
Kids, teens, don't stop reading. Don't stop believing on heroes and magic and happy endings.
Much Love,
Thane