Section 1.1: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

• Page Count: 377
• Goodreads Rating: 4.29

This book has secured a special place in my heart. Percy Jackson, a seemingly average kid, struggles with his schoolwork and emotions. When peculiar events unfold, including a monstrous attack by his math teacher, his mother decides it’s time to reveal his true heritage and ensure his safety.

I first encountered The Lightning Thief during my childhood, sneaking in late-night readings under the covers with a flashlight. My mother often cautioned against my aspirations of becoming a spy, noticing my late-night escapades.

If you are a fan of Greek mythology and fantasy, this book is a must-read!

Here are some thought-provoking quotes from the book: - “Even strength must bow to wisdom sometimes.” - “It’s funny how humans can wrap their minds around things and fit them into their version of reality.” - “Words had started swimming off the page, circling my head, the letters doing one-eighties as if they were riding skateboards.”

Subsection 1.1.1: Legend by Marie Lu

• Page Count: 305
• Goodreads Rating: 4.16

Approaching Legend, I was unsure what to expect as it diverged from my typical reading preferences. However, I was enthralled and finished it in just a few days! The narrative style was exquisite, holding my attention from beginning to end. If you enjoy young adult novels with dystopian elements, this book will not disappoint!

Notable quotes from this story include: - “It’s strange being here with you. I hardly know you. But…sometimes it feels like we’re the same person born into two different worlds.” - “Each day means a new twenty-four hours. Each day means everything’s possible again.” - “I’d once been fascinated by his legend — all the stories I’d heard before I met him.”

Section 1.2: The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green

• Page Count: 293
• Goodreads Rating: 4.38

You may be familiar with John Green from his bestseller, The Fault In Our Stars, which was later adapted into a film. The Anthropocene Reviewed is a remarkable collection of essays that explore humanity's impact on the world. I couldn’t put this book down; it was simply brilliant!

Here are some striking quotes from the book: - “We all know how loving ends. But I want to fall in love with the world anyway.” - “You can’t see the future coming — not the terrors, for sure, but you also can’t see the wonders that are coming.” - “To fall in love with the world isn’t to ignore or overlook suffering.”