Time for a Blog Hop! And this one's a goodie! Hosted by The Blue Bookcase, this week they ask:
If you were going off to war (or some other similarly horrific situation) and could only take one book with you, which literary book would you take and why?
This is a tricky question for me, but considering that there are books that I have practically memorised, I think I'd be ok to get through any horrible situation, at least entertainment-wise. For inspiration, however, I would probably have to go with The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. The ability of that family, and in fact most of the characters in the novel, to get through and overcome a whole host of horrifying situations is really inspiring, and would help give me the strength to soldier ever onwards. Although it would remind me that I didn't have my family right by my side, it would also give me the strength to get through it, so I could be reunited with them again. Also, I just generally love Tom Joad, especially that time he was Henry Fonda (although the film isn't that good. But still. Henry Fonda.)
What book would get you through the hardest time in your life? Am I crazy to want to take a book that doesn't exactly have a really happy ending?
Loved Grapes of Wrath. Has wonderful enduring strengths about it. Good choice.
ReplyDeleteHere is my post:
http://readerbuzz.blogspot.com/2011/02/one-book.html
I'd love to hear what you think.
I'm a new follower!
ReplyDeleteAw, thanks! Just commented on your post too :)
ReplyDeleteMy answer for FF- Does Across the Universe count as sci-fi? I mostly stick with paranormal, fantasy and contemporary.
ReplyDeleteI’m hopping by from Follow Friday I’m following you and would love if you follow me too!
My Follow Friday post
Enter my Challenge and win Prizes for Reviewing Books
I also chose a book whose characters' are able to overcome bad situations (A Tree Grows in Brooklyn). Like you, I find that inspirational.
ReplyDeleteI'm embarrassed to admit that I haven't read Grapes of Wrath...every time I think about starting it, I shy away--it sounds depressing.
Aw, don't be embarrassed- there are so many books I should read but haven't- like A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, for instance! The Grapes of Wrath is sort of depressing but also sort of amazing- I would recommend it over basically every other book ever, except maybe To Kill a Mockingbird. I love Steinbeck, can you tell?!
ReplyDeleteYes, I think this is a great choice. It is similar to what I chose - an American classic that is just comforting, touching, funny at times.. and would remind me a lot of home and family. Excellent idea.
ReplyDeletealthough their ability to overcome a lot of bad stuff 7 although have read & enjoyed this, i went for poetry.
ReplyDeleteI do really love The Grapes of Wrath. East of Eden is another favorite. I went with Crime and Punishment, but I like your answer too.
ReplyDeleteI loved East of Eden. The Grapes of Wrath is on my tbr list!
ReplyDeleteHere is my Literary Blog Hop post!
@Parrish lantern- I have some serious issues with poetry, mainly stemming from my teenage horror at having to forcibly read some. I say this, mind you, whilst I have copies of Leaves of Grass and The Complete Works of William Wordsworth next to my bed, so... maybe I'm cured!
ReplyDelete@bibliophilac and gautami- I love East of Eden too! I read it a really long time ago though, so it's all ready to be read and enjoyed again once I finish One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (again!)
ReplyDeleteAlso, read The Grapes of Wrath! It's so awesome!
Such a strong choice ;)
ReplyDeleteI'm following from the hop.
ecwrites.blogspot.com
No, you are not crazy... I consider the last few scenes of GoW to be the most inspirational. It just goes to show that there is always something left to give, even when you think you have run out of options.
ReplyDeleteGreat choice.
I've never read The Grapes of Wrath, but it does sound like a good choice for this question.
ReplyDelete