As the leaves turned golden and the air crisped with the scent of pumpkin and apple, October brought more than just pumpkin spice lattes and a spooky celebration—it was National Book Month, a time to celebrate the importance of stories that shape our identities and history, the authors who inspire us and the joy of sitting beside a warm fireplace while cracking open a good book.
To mark this important occasion, many students around RM shared their favorite reads—from fantasy to history, mystery to realistic fiction—that left them a long-lasting impression. Whether you like to solve murder mysteries or fawn over fictional romance, there is something for everyone on this list.
“Harry Potter” by J.K.Rowling
Senior Ronya Sen recommends the classic “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling. Consisting of seven fantasy novels, the series follows the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. But Harry Potter is more than just a book series—it is a cultural phenomenon. From blockbuster film renditions starring Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson to theme parks to the r/HarryPotter subreddit, its influence can be found everywhere.
“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
Senior Aida Hodjatzadeh picks “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge until the very last page. The story follows painter Alicia Berenson, who stops speaking after murder accusations. When a psychotherapist tries to uncover her motives, shocking twists unfold. “It was the first time the unreliable narrator wasn’t predictable,” Hodjatzadeh said.
“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo
If you love intricate plots, immersive world-building and unpredictable, morally gray characters, junior Mouna Dantata’s selection of “Six of Crows” is the right book for you. The story follows six outcasts led by criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker in the bustling city of Ketterdam, banding together to pull off an impossible heist. “[The characters and] world-building [are] very compelling,” Dantata said. The novel explores themes of family, trauma, revenge, justice and prejudice, and explores the bonds that defy blood ties, grapple with pain and seek retribution, all while navigating a world of discrimination.
“Napoleon Bonaparte” by Andrew Roberts
For history enthusiasts, senior Aditya Pradhan’s recommendation of Andrew Roberts’ “Napoleon: A Life” outlines one of history’s most complex figures. “It’s the Napoleon [Bonaparte],” Pradhan said. Bonaparte is painted in the biography as both visionary and flawed, a man whose strong will entirely reshaped Europe. The biography stands out for its readability, insight and depth, providing a portrait that goes beyond myth and controversy and is a must-read for any individual fascinated by strategy and historical forces.
“Omniscient Readers’ Viewpoint” by Sing Shong
Senior Raymond Cheng recommends “Omniscient Readers’ Viewpoint” by Sing Shong, a Korean web novel series that follows Kim Dokja, an ordinary reader suddenly finding himself living inside an apocalyptic novel he once read. With the knowledge of the story plot, Dokja must learn to navigate chaos alongside the protagonist—or else, he will die. “It’s a goated series,” Cheng said, and the public would agree. Since its release, “Omniscient Readers’ Viewpoint” has developed massive online fanbases and continues to influence the world of digitalized fiction.
“The Namesake” by Jhumpa Lahiri
Senior Katherine Xue recommends “The Namesake” by Jhumpa Lahiri, a poignant exploration of culture, identity and family. The novel narrates Gogol Ganguli, an American-born son of Indian immigrants, and his struggles to reconcile with his heritage in the world. “It feels so real,” Xue said. The book, which was also adapted into a critically acclaimed film, is praised for its intimate portrayal of self-discovery, and it continues to resonate with readers navigating identity and belonging.
