“When I was born, the name for what I was did not exist”–the opening line for one of my favorite books, Circe by Madeline Miller. A book earns the honor of becoming my favorite when it possesses the power to completely enthrall me, making it impossible to think of anything else. Though this effect may seem magical, it is anything but. It all comes down to a few essential elements that forge an unforgettable experience.
Without an enticing opening, a book is likely doomed to a long, dusty life on the library shelf. The exposition, after all, represents the author’s one chance to engage a reader and set the stage for the rest of the novel. Take Circe for instance—its opening line instantly sparks curiosity: Who is the main character? What does s/he mean? What is s/he? These questions are key for active reading.
However, a strong start means nothing if the author cannot keep up with his or her own pace. Book Club President and senior Chloe Brown, whose favorite book is Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, explained that a truly good book needs good writing. “Good writing is descriptive, easy to read, and not basic,” Brown expanded. After all, even the greatest story known to mankind would be lost in translation if the author lacked the skills to properly convey his or her message.
In the same vein, junior Joy Helmy is a strong proponent of the “show, don’t tell” rule and stressed the importance of having “the story tell itself.” Helmy, a fan of Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series, used Maas as an example of what writers should strive for. Maas is known for her detailed descriptions, a crucial skill for a fantasy writer. Fantasy writing requires a vivid imagination paired with the ability to translate said imagination into words that immerse a reader. In any genre, it is essential for the reader to participate in the reading experience, rather than the authors simply relaying information or forcing meaning onto their reader.
A well-crafted book also needs thematic depth. English teacher Nicole Guillet values literature that reflects human experiences and encourages new perspectives, like in her favorite book The Bat-Poet by Randall Jarrell. Guillet believes that a book should make readers feel seen and understood, offering themes that resonate on a personal level without feeling cliché.
Both Brown and Helmy agreed that characters have a significant impact on a novel. Brown believes that relatable and likable protagonists are necessary for readers to connect with and take something meaningful away from the story. Helmy, on the other hand, highlighted the often-overlooked value of strong supporting characters who add depth and richness to the story. Both readers agreed that character development is essential—without it, any plot would fall flat. After all, it is the characters who bring the story to life, making readers invest in their journeys from beginning to end.
At its core, a truly great book is an intricate balance of strong writing, compelling characters, and meaningful themes. From a captivating opening to immersive storytelling, each element plays a vital role in shaping an unforgettable reading experience. Whether through Miller’s enchanting prose, Salinger’s raw authenticity, Maas’s rich world-building, or Jarrell’s hard-hitting themes, the books that leave a lasting impression do so because they connect with readers on a deeper level. The best stories are not just read—they are felt.
