Tina's Favorite Things: Books

Oprah has a favorite things list and I think I am just as, if not more, entertaining than her. ;)
This is the start of my favorite things, today: Books.
I have written posts in the past about how much I love books, but I can't help but bring it up again. There is nothing more satisfying (to me) than finishing a truly great book.
These day's I've been reading a lot of chick lit, which isn't exactly mind motivating, but it's entertaining. I do however have my all time favorites:

Number 5
Fahrenheit 451

This book was so sadly beautiful it made me cry. It's about a world where books are forbidden, and banned. The book initially was meant to symbolize how television is ruining the literary world, but since its debut has become an anthem for all people who fight against censorship. I think this book really hits home because one of the worst nightmares I have ever had is about all my books being burned. (I know I'm a HUGE dork). This book sort of epitomizes all that books are to me.

Number 4
House of Leaves

I can't even begin to describe this book. I have never read anything else like it. It's a beautiful love story surrounded by a horror story. The book is written in an interesting style. There are two stories simultaneously being told. Other stories also enter the realm through footnotes that go on for pages and pages. There are references to books that don't exist. You almost get lost in trying to decipher what is "real" and what is "fiction". I have never been so entranced by a book. I wish I could do a better job explaining it, but it's one of those books that you just have to read to appreciate.

Number 3
To Kill a Mockingbird


I can't count the number of times I have read this book. I first read it in 8th grade and I have kept a copy on my bookshelf ever since. I think it's the first book I have ever truly LOVED. Whenever I'm feeling a little nostalgic I can pick this book up, flip to any section, and immediately become entranced in the world of Scout and Jem.

Number 2
The Fountainhead

The Fountainhead is the first book I ever read by Ayn Rand. I cannot explain in words how much I love this book. I want to meet Rand and be her friend, that's how much I admire her work. This book was my favorite at one point.

Number 1
Atlas Shrugged

Who is John Galt? This is the best book ever written hands down. I welcome people's opinions on other books that are better, and I would love to read them, but this is it for me. This is the bee's knees. The end all and be all of books. Galt's 50 page monologue is so beautifully written, it commands the reader to almost read aloud in order to fully capture all that is being said. I absolutely LOVE this book. I can't think of another literary work, except the Bible, that is so wonderfully written.

These of course are my favorite books today, but I reserve the right to change my mind at any time :)

What are your favorite books, and why?

Love, Tina Marie