Turning Pages: The Books on My Reading Wishlist“

What books do you want to read?

“Turning Pages: The Books on My Reading Wishlist“

Books are our eternal companions, guiding us through the labyrinth of existence while quenching our thirst for knowledge, imagination, and introspection. My reading wishlist reflects an eclectic blend of ancient mythology, profound philosophies, and contemporary masterpieces—each promising a unique journey into the depths of human experience.

Greek Mythology: Timeless Tales of the Gods

Greek mythology is a treasure trove of wisdom and wonder. Among the many books I wish to explore, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller tops the list. This beautifully reimagined tale of love and heroism offers a fresh perspective on the Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus. Equally enticing is Circe, also by Miller, which tells the story of the infamous enchantress in a narrative that combines myth with modern sensibilities. These books breathe life into ancient myths, making them resonate with contemporary readers.

Indian Mythology: Tales Rooted in Culture and Spirituality

Indian mythology’s richness and depth never fail to captivate. On my wishlist is Devdutt Pattanaik’s Myth = Mithya, which deciphers the symbolism and relevance of Indian myths in the modern world. I am also eager to read The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, a retelling of the Mahabharata from Draupadi’s perspective, offering an intimate look at her struggles, emotions, and inner strength. Additionally, Amish Tripathi’s The Shiva Trilogy promises a riveting blend of mythology, adventure, and philosophy, recasting Lord Shiva as a relatable human figure.

Philosophy: A Quest for Eternal Truths

The world of philosophy is a wellspring of wisdom. Books like The Republic by Plato continue to fascinate, with its timeless discourse on justice, morality, and governance. I am equally intrigued by Jiddu Krishnamurti’s The First and Last Freedom, which challenges the norms of thought and advocates for self-awareness. Adding to this, Being and Time by Martin Heidegger remains an aspirational read, with its profound exploration of existence and the nature of being.

Contemporary Award-Winning Literature

In recent years, contemporary literature has produced gems that reflect the complexities of our times. Colson Whitehead’s The Nickel Boys, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is a poignant tale of injustice and resilience, set against the backdrop of segregation-era America. Another must-read is Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart, the Booker Prize-winning story of a boy navigating poverty and familial struggles in 1980s Glasgow. Delving into non-fiction, Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson offers a compelling examination of systemic inequality, weaving historical and contemporary narratives with finesse.

Poetry: The Music of Words

Poetry is a realm where brevity meets boundless depth. I am eager to explore contemporary poets like Ocean Vuong, whose On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous is a heart-wrenching novel written in poetic prose. Meanwhile, Rupi Kaur’s The Sun and Her Flowers beckons with its simplicity and relatability, providing a modern take on universal themes of love, loss, and healing.

Closing Thoughts

As I ponder my wishlist, I am reminded of Jorge Luis Borges’ words: “I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.” Each book on my list is a doorway to a new world, a chance to traverse the boundaries of time, space, and culture. Whether rooted in mythology, steeped in philosophy, or penned in the present day, these works promise to enrich my understanding of the world and myself.

What books are on your reading wishlist? Perhaps, like mine, they reflect the eternal human quest for meaning and connection.