1. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
If you have yet to read this little masterpiece by Dumas, I suggest you run to the book store immediately. Its combination of affairs, murders, and the revenge it incurs makes it a 19th century France soap opera. I have no idea why my conservative evangelical school let us read it but I'm not complaining.
2. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Yet another book of contention. But after reading it, you know why there's such a buzz around it. And you can even almost understand Demi Moore naming her daughter after the main character, Scout. A deftly told tale that's not only about race but about humanity, it must find a place on everyone's book shelf.
3. The Pearl by John Steinbeck
This is a deceptively small novella that ends up packing an unbelievable punch of morality. Kino starts out trying to save his son and ends up greedy and disappointed. Steinbeck skillfully wrote a fable that is probably more applicable to someone with a couple decades under their belt than someone who is 12.
4. "The Raven" by Edgar Allen Poe
Well this wasn't exactly assigned reading and it isn't technically a book... but when each student in the entire student body had to declaim a different 5 minute piece of literature I immediately went to this one on the recommendation of my mother. I think that my classmates suspected me of being a bit goth, but oh well, I'll just keep on quoting nevermore.
5. The Aeneid by Virgil
I can honestly remember staring at the cover of this book in 7th grade with not a clue about how to go about pronouncing "Aeneid." I have a feeling it came out "a-EHN-id." But pronunciation aside, this ancient (literally) text proved to be enthralling even when taught by my sort of ancient (figuratively) 7th grade teacher. Ever since I cannot help but have a soft spot for my girl Dido.
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