7 Jun 2023 9:00 am
Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. It’s Wednesday, and time for another post in the Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge hosted by Long and Short Reviews. If you would like to partake in the challenge, you can find the list of topics for 2023 here, and if you would like to read what others had to say about today’s topic, you can do so here.
In a world that is becoming more and more dominated by social media, instant gratification, and shortened attention spans, it is necessary to remind ourselves occasionally of the value of a good book, and whilst it is important to keep up with current literary trends, we should not forget about the classics. Some of these books have shaped our literature, culture, and history, giving us important views and perspectives of times gone by, and often represent a different way of thinking and living.
Some older books I think are of particular importance are:
1984 by George Orwell
1984, a dystopian masterpiece published in 1949, was a critique of the totalitarianism that dominated the world at the time. Reading it now can help us understand the rising concerns surrounding privacy, government control, and loss of individuality that we face in the digital age today.
The Diary of A Young Girl by Anne Frank
The Diary of A Young Girl remains a haunting reminder of the horror of the Holocaust and is also a tribute to the enduring power of hope and resilience. The diary, written in the context of Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, provides an intimate and personal account of the Holocaust and how it affected those who were trapped in it. Despite the horrific circumstances, the diary also gives us a glimpse of hope and humanity, making it a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a classic story of good versus evil. The book is full of symbolism, allegory, and metaphor, which makes it a perfect teaching tool for children and adults alike. For example, the white witch represents evil, while Aslan, the lion, represents goodness and sacrifice and strength. On top of all of that (along with the other books in the series), it is fantastically entertaining.
The Grinch by Dr Seuss
The Grinch is a beloved children’s book that has captured the hearts of generations, and its importance lies in its ability to teach children valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, love and the true meaning of Christmas. Plus, it is such a brilliantly musical piece of writing.
Well, that’s post 23. I’m looking forward to finding out what all of your picks are!
As always, thanks so much for reading my words. It means a lot.
Until next time,
George
© 2023 GLT
Posted by georgelthomas
Categories: life, Reading, Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge
Tags: blog, blogging, Frank, Lewis, older books, Orwell, Seuss, Wednesday, Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge
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I loved all of these books and totally agree with you that everyone should read them.
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By Lydiaschoch on 7 Jun 2023 at 11:02 am
We’re marching to the same tune. All must reads for young adults.
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By Patrick Prescott on 7 Jun 2023 at 2:23 pm
Yes, definitely! 🙂
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By georgelthomas on 7 Jun 2023 at 2:24 pm
The scary thing is these days few people are concerned about a 1984 situation. I just saw a report that 30% of ‘zoomers’ were fine with the idea of mandatory security cameras in their homes for their safety.
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By Stephen on 7 Jun 2023 at 6:28 pm
Wow. That is scary!
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By georgelthomas on 7 Jun 2023 at 7:07 pm
Excellent suggestions! And yes, I think 1984 is especially relevant right now. I might also add Catch-22 to this list.
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By Michael Mock on 7 Jun 2023 at 7:33 pm
I definitely agree on 1984 and The Diary of Anne Frank. They were well worth reading.
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By Tanith Davenport on 10 Jun 2023 at 7:29 am
All of these were worth reading.
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By Priscilla King on 12 Jun 2023 at 11:51 pm
I love all your choices. I read today that some school districts in Texas and Florida are banning The Diary of Anne Frank. Why? I suppose because parents don’t wnat their children to know any bad things. Sad.
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By Anne@HeadFullofBooks on 15 Jun 2023 at 6:19 am
It’s such an important book. I remember learning about Anne in school – how quickly everything changed for her – and it has stuck with me. It definitely shouldn’t be banned.
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By georgelthomas on 15 Jun 2023 at 6:26 am
I definitely agree! The Diary of Anne Frank and fantasy books such as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and The Hobbit are becoming popular again amongst young people. I want to read 1984 again myself! 😀
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By Jennifer Jenkins on 16 Jul 2023 at 11:18 pm
I think it’s a very timely read at any time. 🙂🙂
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By georgelthomas on 16 Jul 2023 at 11:25 pm