Nothing Beats A Love Story
Happy Valentine's Day, dreamers!
If there is anything I am truly good at, it is a hopeless romantic. That means that I am a sucker for a good love story. Whether it be a sappy movie or novel, you can bet that I will be there with a box of tissues. Because of this tragic flaw, I have read countless books where the author could lure me in with a love story. I think every love story a writer has to tell is something beautiful, even if most would consider it cliche. If you do not have a special someone to share this day of romance with, or even if you do, give these three stories a read. I can guarantee that they will pull at those heartstrings.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Yes, of course, I had to include this tragically beautiful novel in my must-reads; this is not an understatement: this was one of the best, if not THE best, books I have ever read. I set high expectations for Mr. Green, and he certainly met every single one. The love Hazel and Gus feel for each other is the stuff of dreams. Some may criticize that a love like theirs cannot exist, but you cannot help but admire their tragic story. Not only that, but Hazel and Gus also have incredible strength for two teenagers. They understand what is inevitable for both of them, but they will not let that affect their lives and relationships. If that does not inspire you, I do not know what will. I highly recommend curling up with this novel by the fireplace. First, make sure you have a day to spare because you will not be able to put this story down. Oh, and do not forget the tissues!
Romiette and Julio by Sharon M. Draper
If there is one thing, I highly dislike, schools assign summer reading novels every year. But one book that I was required to read for the eighth grade was Romiette and Julio. I read this novel in about two or three days and stayed up until two in the morning to finish the final third. I am sure you can infer by the title that this story, inspired by Shakespeare's classic tale, Romeo and Juliette. Draper's novel has a modern twist to the infamous affair. Fate (well, more like a "find your soulmate" kit) brought Julio out of Romiette's dreams and into her reality. This novel about star-crossed lovers who will not let anything get in their way of true love (if anything, the hardships they face only drive them closer) and a fiery ending that will keep you up all night.
“[i carry your heart with me (i carry it in]” by E.E. Cummings
I will be the first to admit that I am not the biggest fan of poems. I find them hard to understand and interpret 75% of the time. However, when I had to read this poem for an AP English assignment earlier this year, I became pretty enticed by it. The great thing about poetry is that there are so many interpretations behind the author's words. In my mind, the speaker is so passionately in love with another. No matter what happens to either of them, he will always want the world and more for her simply because he wishes happiness in her life. Now, who wouldn't want a guy to feel this strongly about her?
You may still be waiting for Prince Charming to sweep you off your feet, but books can help you daydream about hearing that white horse galloping into your life. While you are waiting for "the one" to come into your life finally, why not fawn over what might be?
Stay fearless,
Andrea Santoyo