Valentines from Atlantic’s Bibliophiles
Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, so we thought it would be appropriate to ask our staff of book lovers to write a Valentine to one of their favorite books.
Katie Cline, Project Manager
One of my favorite books ever is “The Princess Bride” by William Goldman. It’s considered by many to be a modern classic because, as the grandfatherly narrator explains, the story is filled with fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, and miracles. What more could you want?
I fell in love with “The Princess Bride” back in middle school when I found an old, tattered copy in the stacks of the library. The writing confused me terribly, but at the same time, enchanted me. The humor was like something from a Seinfeld episode, but the writing was as lyrical as Shakespeare. To my hormone-filled, often-swooning 13-year-old heart, there had never been a more magical and romantic book ever written. And still to this day, it sits as a favorite among my many shelves of beloved books.
Danielle Lieneman , Project Manager
Normally when I get asked about my favorite book, my mind goes blank. I suddenly can’t remember the title of any book I have ever enjoyed. However, one fairly recent read has left me eagerly awaiting a sequel and given me a much-needed update to my normal, easy responses of “Harry Potter” and “Pride and Prejudice.”
Ever since reading “Girls of Paper and Fire” by Natasha Ngan, I can’t get my mind off Lei and her story. Without giving too much of the plot away, “Girls” is set in a richly imagined world in which demons rule the Earth, and humans are lowly paper-caste. Lei is among those “chosen” to serve the demon king. Despite the terror and trauma that Lei experiences at court, she manages to fight back and fall in (forbidden) love that will inspire many of readers (you’ll have to read it to find out why!).
Danielle Sinon, Editorial Intern
One of my all-time favorite books is “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. This work of historical fiction is set in Nazi Germany and follows the story of Liesel Meminger. Liesel has experienced a lot of trauma and loss in her young life, and turns to books as an escape. She is able to share stories with those close to her to help them remember what life was like before the war began. I love the progression of the story and the heartfelt emotions expressed by the characters. Liesel is daring and courageous in the face of danger, showing her true love for her family and friends.
Lizzy Allen, Administrative Assistant
There are many books that have an intriguing plot, fleshed out characters, and a fast pace, but if I had I had to choose one that stands out against the rest, I would pick “When You Reach Me” by Rebecca Stead.
“When You Reach Me” is a science fiction/mystery novel that takes place in New York between 1978-1979. Our 12-year-old protagonist, Miranda, has received several cryptic notes from an unidentified stranger that ask her to keep track and write down the upcoming events in her life. They also ask her to disclose the location of her spare key. Before she can write off the notes as fake, they start to correctly predict future events. She’s told that if she doesn’t comply, she’d be risking several lives — including her own. You may start the story with a lot of questions, but by the end, all you’re left with is a satisfying conclusion.
“When You Reach Me” is a classic in the making. This book effortlessly meshes numerous genres at once. It’s a fast-paced, quick read that takes you on a thrilling adventure and leaves you with a touching sentiment of friendship, family, and paying it forward. That is why, as of 2019, it’s my favorite book of all time.
Nicole Sturk, Graphic Designer
Since it’s Valentine’s Day, I’ll choose a classic love story.
One of my favorite books is “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen. I first read it for a book report in high school. I really had no idea what it was about at the time and was a little intimidated by the old-style language, so I was so surprised when I ended up enjoying it so much. Though I really admire the character Elizabeth Bennett, it is really Darcy — the quiet, antisocial, and misunderstood one — that I identify with more. I have loved the story ever since that first read, and I’m a total sucker for any other book, movie, and TV adaptations that come along.
Jack Bussell, Publishing Consultant
The last book that had a big impact on me is Amy Cuddy’s book “Presence.” The book is based on case studies of body language and the message we deliver with our presence. At our lowest moments, we often lower expectations of others by how we present ourselves. Likewise, if we meet someone with self-confidence, our body language conveys value in who we are. Whether we are in a professional setting or personal relationship it is important to understand how stature and presence impacts our lives.
As you can see, we have a varied taste in books. It doesn’t matter what you like to read — or write — so long as you enjoy it! What are some of your favorite books?
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