Reading has always been an integral part of my life; anyone who knows me knows that I adore books. Every birthday, Christmas, and special occasion, I am guaranteed to receive at least one Barnes and Noble gift card. I inevitably have a book with me at all times. 

Ever since my third-grade year when I discovered the Warriors series by Erin Hunter, I have begun to associate periods of my life with certain books.

Elementary school

In fourth grade, I made the courageous decision to switch classes halfway through the school year. It was the right decision for me—however, that knowledge did not settle my nerves. Although the classrooms were probably less than 20 feet apart, I was horrified and extremely apprehensive.

To get me through my newfound stress—which was unlike anything I had experienced before—I found comfort in Roald Dahl’s peculiar, freakish alternative universes that others called stories. My days and nights were filled with Matilda, The Witches, James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG, and The Twits. Yes, I did get nightmares from some of these slightly unnerving books, but yes, they did help me get through the big transition that I was going through.

As it turns out, switching classes halfway through the school year when you’re in fourth grade is scarier than child-hating societies of witches, like The Witches introduced me to. 

Now, I can’t think of fourth grade without thinking of Roald Dahl.

Fifth grade

My fifth grade was the year that Harry Potter was discovered; or, that’s how it felt to me when I started reading them in that period.

Fifth grade was an exceedingly enjoyable year for me. Harry Potter had a large contribution to this. I’ve found that the better the book or series is, the less I struggle with anxiety and stress. I think that it is an almost universally agreed upon fact that the Harry Potter books are one of the most unparalleled, superior books that there are. They aren’t necessarily my favorite books currently, but in fifth grade they most certainly were.

I have some distinct memories from fifth grade, but one of my favorites had always been quiet reading time. When my teacher called everyone to the carpet because reading time was over, I was so engrossed in Harry Potter that I didn’t hear her and kept reading.

Middle school

In my personal opinion, middle school books are the best. They are simple and good for all ages to enjoy. However, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins went far beyond my expectations.

The Hunger Games was my middle school obsession—I am actually in the process of rereading them, as well. 

My older brother used to be on FHC’s crew team and therefore had regattas. Being the supportive sister that I am, of course, I attended; however, I did not exactly pay much attention to it because I was busy reading. I remember one incident in particular where I tripped from not looking up while walking during the regatta. Perhaps it was embarrassing, but I have no regrets—The Hunger Games was worth it.

I don’t think I have found my high school obsession yet. Roald Dahl, Harry Potter, and The Hunger Games are hard to compare to. Yet, that hasn’t hindered me from losing myself in countless books whenever I am able.