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Winter Reading Challenge : Book Reviews

The Andromeda Strain by Michael Crichton

"The Andromeda Strain", written by Michael Crichton, the bestselling author of "Jurassic Park" and the NBC series "ER", is one of the best science fiction novels of all time. Crichton's meticulous attention to scientific detail, as well as his ability to weave complex concepts into an accessible and suspenseful narrative, make the book intellectually engaging and provide the reader with a thought-provoking thrill that keeps them on the edge of their seat. -- Samuel Leppo


Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh

Hailed as the great Catholic novel, Waugh's masterpiece will take some by surprise, but what should surprise none is its beauty from beginning to end. This story of an exhausted English upper class is definitely an odd foil to O'Connor but one worthy of the spot. The book will open your eyes to the realist novel's potential for lyric and rapture, and perhaps something more. -- Jack Daly



Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert (Translated by Lydia Davis)

Although the scandal and excitement which surrounded Madame Bovary's first appearance has long since eroded, Flaubert's classic stands today on the same acerbic commitment to real life that it had in 1856. Madame Bovary is the story of Charles Bovary's ill-fated marriage to Emma Rouault, a young woman whose soul and body are corroded by boredom and fantasy. Flaubert's profuse description of Norman country life lets the reader feel not only the distress of Emma's firsthand experience, but also the tedium she creates by her own misadventures. The prose of Davis' translation captures a special quality of Flaubert's style, a kind of glitter between the ordinary objects, a light just barely out of grasp. -- Jack Daly


Conclave by Robert Harris

"Conclave" by Robert Harris is a gripping political thriller set against the backdrop of a papal election. The novel masterfully delves into the murky world of Vatican politics, as the death of a Pope sets the stage for a secretive and suspense-filled conclave to choose his successor. Harris crafts a vivid portrait of ambition, faith, and human frailty as cardinals from around the world gather, each with their own secrets and agendas. The protagonist, Cardinal Lomeli, navigates the tense proceedings, uncovering shocking truths and grappling with his own doubts. With its meticulous research, engaging prose, and unexpected twists, Conclave offers a fascinating and thought-provoking glimpse into the intersection of power and spirituality. -- Sam Leppo


Lost Boy: The True Story of Captain Hook by Christina Henry

This book covers the backstory of how Captain Hook became the villain in Peter Pan's story. There was a lot of jaw dropping moments and the book was entertaining beginning to end making it hard to put down. If you think you would enjoy a classic fairytale turned horror this is the book for you. -- Makiyah Adams

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