So many books, so little time I also prefer to read books slowly, and its a good reminder, especially in the midst a culture so obsessed with "consuming" as much "content" as humanly possible, to take your time with things. It is good to sit with books, and learn their ideas, absorb the themes and setting, and spend time with its characters. That's one reason why I love the Wheel of Time so much, especially in its slower moments. Art shouldn't be a speed run! Love the video and your whole vibe, cheers!
YES! Yes to all of this! Not just booktube culture but society in general fixates on over consumption! Every trend I see on book tube is all about book hauls and read as many books as you can in a year! I embrace the fact that I’m a slower reader. However I’ve gotten a lot faster over the years. But my attitude stays the same. I want to be intentional with my time and with the books I choose to read! That’s what this list is all about. Thank you so much for hanging out! What book are you currently reading?
@@Thomas.R.HowellI am currently making my way through David Foster Wallace's "Infinite Jest." Its a massive book that touches on many subjects you talk about-consumerism, blind entertainment, and the evils they present. One of the main plot lines is a group of radical political rebels hunting down the "perfect entertainment," which according to the author if such a film exists then it would have unrivaled influence over our culture. DFW was very vocal that art must have a larger purpose than being solely entertainment. As he says, "Fiction's about what it is to be a fucking human being." I think this is beyond true and a wonderful way to view art. The beauty of books and literature as a whole is that this exploration of humanity can manifest in literally an infinite number of ways. George R. R. Martin has said that he writes about the human heart in conflict with itself. Now, I have not read his books yet, but from what I hear they are very grim. And that's okay in and of itself - hell, Stephen King is probably my favorite author next to Tolkien. But good fiction, if we look at it the way DFW and GRRM do, is a way to explore humanity in a thousand different ways, whether that be through fantasy, sci fi, literary fictions, horror, romance, a western, anime, manga, film, TV, or any combinations of these. My point is that books (and stories) can be anything they want to be, they are the fruit of an author's heart, and this very act of creation I believe is one of the holiest things we can do as human beings. Hope you don't mind my ramblings. May I ask, if you were to recommend one book to anybody you passed on the street, what would it be?
Whoa that sounds like an amazing concept! I might have to give that a try. Especially since I’ve been feeling this way the past year or so toward modern society. I’m a filmmaker originally. I make wedding films for a living so seeing this form of creativity and storytelling be crushed by large money hungry studios has dampened my mood toward the craft. That book might have to be added to my list! That is a very tough question! I don’t normally like to recommend Willy nilly just because it can come off annoying. Especially since I get super excited with books. My favorite book is Name of the Wind. But I’d only recommend it if the other person likes slow stories. Where nearly nothing happens. But you feel immense emotion throughout this naturally paced story. So pretty much I have to see what that person likes or doesn’t like. Id pretty much ask questions to see where they are at before I recommend something!
@@Thomas.R.Howell The Name of the Wind is an incredible book. I believe it is one of fantasy's finest proofs that it is a genre that matters. I hope that Rothfuss will one day be able to finish his masterpiece.
I've not read Lonesome Dove or Dungeon Crawler Carl, but I've read the rest of those, and I must say you've got yourself an excellent list there my dude. If you're as slow a reader as I am, that's a year plus of great reading even if you don't intersperse it with other books.
@@Thomas.R.Howell both Dune and Lord Of The Rings are high up in my top 10, although not being a RUclipsr I haven't ordered my top 10. I'd say probably LOTR ranks above Dune, but I also just finished reading it to my kids (and it was a great time), so that may bias my choice there.
I feel like reading to your kids adds a whole new level of enjoyment toward a book or series. I liked Harry Potter. I didn’t love it since I didn’t really grow up with it. I read it as an adult. However whenever I have kids, I feel like I’ll fall in love with it with my kids!
I clicked on this video and I would of thought you had a huge channel already, that’s how well put together this video was! I’m slowly getting into reading and this video definitely opened my eyes up to some great options!
So recently I’ve just been reading self help type books, I just recently finished reading my first book in years which is “the RUclips formula”, a book that I was very interested in because I want to build a RUclips channel of my own, currently I’m reading “Think and grow rich” by napoleon hill. I just want to acquire as much knowledge I can when it comes to achieving my goals, and reading these books drives me to keep working and have faith in myself. When it comes to fiction I’m not sure which books I would gravitate to yet there is just many options out there. But I know when it comes to video games I love horror so maybe a horror book might be a good start. What are some of your favorite horror books you’ve read?
Love it dude! A few self help books I love are the Steal like an Artist Trilogy. Helps put creative work into perspective. Dude! My wife and I are going to play Alan Wake 2 next month! What are some of your favorite horror videogames? We love the resident evil games. RE 2 and 4 remakes were S tier. For horror books I’d start with Stephen King. He’s the true OG when it comes to horror. Salem’s Lot. The Shining. Pet Semetery just to name a few!
Thanks for the recommendation! The resident evil franchise is actually one of my favorites ever, some other horror games I love are outlast 1 and 2, I remember I played the first one when I was younger and I couldn’t even go more than 10 minutes into the game because I was that scared. But then I went back to play them about a year ago and I absolutely loved them, especially the first
RE is truly some of the best video gaming ever. I have a soft spot for the OG resident evil 4 on Wii. My first rated M game my mom let me play. Ya the outlast series I hear so many good things. Yet I’m too big a baby to give it a shot 😂
I’ll chime in here - IDK what about it makes it a perfect fall read specifically, but it’s one of my all-time favorite novels. I’m not even that into westerns either. It’s just great storytelling with amazing characters & fantastic dialogue. I ended up reading all 4 books in the quartet. They’re all great, but Lonesome Dove is the best. The story is completely self-contained, so it’s not like you’re committing to having to read all 4 to get closure either. I read it a couple years ago and wondered why I put it off for so many years.
Hello Thomas, this is a great video, love the idea of picking 10 books at a time I want to read rather than thinking I've got hundreds of books to read.
So many of these are also on my list to read. I'm a homeschool mama, so I spend so much time reading books for my kids (literature and real book based methods). I love making time to read for myself, LOTR was the first big book that I read for myself a few years back and it has changed how I read. Dune and & Hitchhiker's Guide are on my lifetime TBR (which is a bit more than 10) in honor of my father who passed away this year. They were some of his favorites when he was younger, and led to a lifetime of sci-fi love. I've been reading more sci-fi this past year as a way to connect with his memory.
Wow thank you for sharing your story. Memory is a beautiful thing. Reliving and cherishing memories of our past. of our loved ones. It's a wonderful gift to remember. And it is a gift to honor our loved ones through our lives. This month will be 9 years since I lost my mother. I watch home videos and read her letters around this time of year. I love that you are reading books to honor your father. That is so beautiful.
Hitchhikers Guide is also surprisingly philosophical. Its philosophically absurd slant is worn on its sleeve without interrupting the fun of the book. This is probably due, in part, because Absurdism encourages laughing at the void, and embracing the absurd, "One must imagine Sisyphus happy" and all that. I actually think in many ways Adams does a better job of evoking Absurdism to someone curious than many of Camus' works.
I’ve read about half of these and the other half are also on my list. This would be the perfect time of year for IT, it’s one of my favorite horror books of all time. If you struggle with LotR I would suggest the audiobook version. It really helps to have a great story teller.
Love it! I really want to challenge myself to read through lord of the rings rather than audio book. Especially if it’s my first time. After I finish it I’d love to try the audio book because there is a version by Andy Serkis
Lonesoome Dove is my all time favorite. My husband listened to it on his long drives to work. He ended up listening to the whole series, watched the miniseries,' tv shows, and movies. He finished them about 3 months ago and said he felt a huge hole in his heart. He talked about starting them over but moved along for the time being.
Not sure if you do audiobooks but if you do (you can read the book while listening) I recommend the IT audiobook. The narrator did a fantastic job which made me enjoy it more. I listened with a physical copy on hand. I liked the Mistborn series but The Stormlight Archive Series ,so far, is way much better. I'm on book 3 and have enjoyed each one so far.
I don't particularly do audio books. I genuinely enjoy the physical medium of reading a book. However if an audio book is a well done performance, I might give it a go just to experience the narrator. I've done it with the Bill Hodges trilogy and the Outsider. Each are performed by Will Patton and I think he's truly the greatest audiobook performer.
I’m currently in college and for English 1002 I am required to do a 10-12 page research project about any piece of writing. I chose to write about The Cosmere and the stories within it because it’s such a beautiful universe. I believe stormlight archive will be the next classic, I’m so biased to it at this point but please please please read all of stormlight.
Stop it, you're making me want to drop the book I'm reading now to dive in to Stormlight! I love that you're doing your project on something you're passionate about.
I started The Way of Kings around april and let me tell you its worth reading. The world building and the character development is really good. I'm currently on book 3 right now and I'm having a blast 😊
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yes! but I'm not in a hurry, There's going to be a lot of information bombarded at you as you progress to the series so I'm just taking it slow 🤣
Hello Thomas, Thanking the algorithm for having you to show up. 🎉🎉🎉 After a big Beatles biography i will start on either Blood meriidian or Lonesome dove. Two books on the wild west and in my head seeing them as a sort of duo. Dont ask why. And for sure i can recommend It and the Stand. The forner i read three times, and its a gift that keeps on giving. Such a gem! So, Beatles first and then a deep dive into the wild west! I like your list very much, enjoy and kind regards from the Netherlands.
thank youuu so so much for this and all video that you posted!! i feel that you do it with pleasure and it`s really cool! i miss this feeling when you have someone to talk with about books but it`s actually soso cozy to listen you! now i`m reading "on the road" by keruak but you know it`s such a really road-movie book so sometimes i get tired of reading it
That means a lot! Thank you! I wouldn't want to make a video if I wasn't honest and being myself. So happy to have so many people care and want to hang out!
Jurassic park is one of my favourite books I've ever read (so far!) I read it once as a 10 year old and only really remembered the dinosaurs and the gore, then I reread it when I was 20 and there's so much more depth that I hadn't taken in. The corporate espionage plot is much more apparent than it is in the films and can actually be quite funny. If you enjoy it, I would definitely recommend the sequel Lost World, it's even more of a departure from the film adaptation than the first book is.
@@Thomas.R.Howell also, after watching your video, I ended up realising that I have read many of the books you stated, while at the same time still thinking I havent read much lol. Point is, I think we readers will never be satisfied with what we still have left to read haahaaaha
@@gustavolamego9913 haha What are some of your favorite books from the list that you've read? I think what matters most is which books stick with you years later. I'm actually making a video on that lol
@@Thomas.R.Howell stormlight is my favorite series, and I agree that if you didnt enjoy mistborn, you might still enjoy stormlight a lot. There is no feellings of YA here. Also dune is amazing and there is more to learn than what thee movies show (still really amazing tho)
I’m going through the audio book version of dungeon crawler Carl and it’s absolutely amazing. If you want another super long fantasy series, look at the saga of recluce.
Great video, I have some similar books on my list! I love your tips as well, I ended up deleting my TBR and making a 10 as well. Also I cant believe Book of the New Sun - Gene Wolfe isnt on your radar yet, seems right up your alley as a slow, thoughtful, introspective book with exciting setting/world/story
I just got through Dungeon Crawler Carl. Like your wife I would break out in laughter. I bought books 2, 3 & 4. I am currently reading Piranesi by Suzanne Clarke. She wrote Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell. I am loving it. Very different from Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell. Her prose is simple, yet beautiful. Another book I love to recommend (mainly because everyone I've recommended the book to loved it as much as I did) is City of Thieves by David Benioff. It's not fantasy but it is one of my favorite books. Benioff was one of the showrunners for HBOs Game of Thrones.
As i was hitting the like and subscribe buttons - out of sheer habit (!) your closing part totally caught me of guard, and was very refreshing! theres substance in your videos, which is nice :)
I’ve read LOTR, IT, and The Stand from your list. It’s been ages, but I loved all of them. I get grief for it, but I also loved The Hobbit. Also, they filmed part of the mini series The Stand (back in the 90’s) two houses down from my house. Exciting stuff!
Absolutely awesome list my man. You picked the two King must reads. I love the stand, tough read but after you go through the whole journey you’ll find yourself looking back fondly with good memories even years later. It is definitely my favourite book from King as I love the coming of age stories that just bring you back to a time that was simpler. Jurassic park is terrifying and offers discussion on the ethics on the manipulation of genetics which was quite interesting. Dune is LONG and dry but it’s worth the read the most out of all the books on the list. I’m currently on two towers of lord of the rings, the series is good but requires a slow burn, also don’t ignore the songs they are super important and add so much! The rest of these I haven’t read yet and they’re all on my list too. I hope you enjoy the journeys😁
Thank you for your insight on these books! Makes me more excited to dive into these! I don’t understand why people complain about songs in books. I think they add so much to not only the story but the world itself!
@@Thomas.R.Howell exactly!! Music is a huge part of the culture it belongs to and understanding the different cultures of the many groups of people in the books only increases the understanding of the story and the world it takes place in. I watched a few more of your videos and I like the style of your channel and what it’s about so I subbed. Keep up the good work and I’m excited to see what’s next!
Yes I agree! I love Name of the Wind because the main character is a musician. Though there aren’t a lot of written “songs” in the book, there is plenty of music being played. And how that’s written leaves me in awe! Wow I’m honored! Seriously thank you so much!
I've read six of these and am currently reading a seventh: Way of Kings. I like it, but it's definitely simple, has surface level meaning, and thus is popcorn entertainment (and we all need that every so often!). Lord of the Rings and Dune are actual literature, and two of my all time favorites. I also own Eye of the World, but haven't gotten around to it yet 😊
That is so cool! Ya idk what it is with Sanderson but his writing just didn't jive with me with Mistborn. VERY surface level. However I am loving his work in the last three books of Wheel of Time. Although I haven't read Dune or LotR, I do agree with those two being actual literature. I think people should consider Wheel of Time to at least be in that wheel house or very close to it. There is nothing out there like WoT. The long form storytelling. You just don't see that nowadays. It's brilliant. Excited for you to dive into Eye of the World!
@@Thomas.R.Howell A good friend of mine keeps telling me to read all the Wheel of Time stuff; I'll get around to it eventually. I would argue that Sanderson values situations, setting, and plot over character study and what drives the characters.
Dungeon Crawler Carl is sooo good! Although I’d recommend the audio books for it because they add a lot, I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading them too! Although I enjoy more ‘serious’ books I do also love a good dumb funny book I’m looking forward to reading Foucault’s Pendulum by Umberto Eco, it’s a chunky boy, but sounds super interesting and fun
Dude thank you I’m still figuring things out if I want to always have a coffee intro or just dive right into talking. I just want that home like feel. As if I’m inviting the viewer into a comfortable living room. Nice coffee and a good book.
As you've been getting into Stephen King, I would highly recommend Billy Summers. It's not a Horror book, more so a thriller and honestly, I can't find anything like it and it's such an amazing read. It's being adapted apparently by JJ Abrams and Leonardo Decaprio.
@@Thomas.R.Howellguy is brought in to do his final hit, 6 months maybe in preparation for his final target. His undercover persona is a writer, through this you learn about his brutal past. Once the bullet is shot, you’ll be question where you’re going, what is going on, who are these people. Additional sentences 😂 - the book and what it’s set up to be are there but once you hit what you think is the climax of the book, you now truly get into it, the people, the world and Billy. Honestly it’s just an outstanding read that I can with 100% certainty say you’ll love.
I can give you my experience with Lord of the rings book, It took me more than a year to finish, the main reason was because I have seen too many times the movies, and whole chapters just didn't surprise me, but trust me, it worth the effort of reading it, there are pretty beautiful scenes in the book and also deepens a lot in lore. I didn't finished IT, I just found too boring the streets descriptions of gargantuan proportions. Respect to Dune, when I read it, I had mixed feelings about it, I liked a lot the worldbuilding but I founded too slow paced, but when I watched the movies I felt grateful, because in the movies there are a lot of cryptics things that if you didn't read the book you just don't notice or understand, so it's a must read if you want to watch the movies.
@@mipsungvuclam It gave me the same feeling, even if it took me one year the first reading, but I will not coming back to middle earth until I read the silmarillion (which I'm waiting for a good deal). If you didn't read the hobbit yet, I encourage you to do it, is way better than the movies.
I'm on book 2 of Wheel of Time. The book that actually got me into reading heavily was Dune. I wanted to read it before the movie came out. What I thought would be a one-and-done thing turned into a year of working through the 6 main books and then the 2 sequels. Until I was told about the Lamb Among the Stars series, Children of Dune was my favorite book. I had the first page of that book made into the lapel flowers(?) for my groomsmen and I in my wedding. Most people that I know that have read Dune stopped after Children but the story goes much deeper after that one. God Emperor is the perfect book for a slow read. So much philosophy to bask in. I get not wanting to jump into another series right after a long one, but you should really take the time for Dune as soon as you feel ready and then venture into the rest of the series.
I'm a wedding filmmaker full-time and that is by far the coolest idea I've heard of for a lapel! Dune is dense for sure and it isn't for everybody. But those who have read it all the way through love it. Wheel of Time took a lot of inspiration from Dune. I'm on book 12 of WoT, I'm jealous you get to start the journey fresh because I never want it to end. How are you liking WoT??
@@Thomas.R.Howell so far it’s really good. I did take a break after Eye of the World because it was a just a lot. I will say that in my current mission of slowing down and just trying to simplify things and take time to actually enjoy slow moving parts of life, WoT is helping with that. It takes a lot to move through these books from what I’ve seen and it just goes to show that reading is about so much more than just entertainment or learning. When I’m slowing down to read these books I’m surprised at much that practice bleeds into my everyday life. Not everything has to be a box to check off. Something’s are just meant to be enjoyed so that you can dwell on them for years to come and share that experience with others. I very much enjoy watching your content and I think you going against the speedy culture of today is very much needed.
@@alexandersmith2318 Every single word you said I wholeheartedly resonate with. I love this. Wheel of Time I think has shaped me into the reader I am today. It's given me a new perspective in the midst of our VERY fast world. The series is slow and that is a good thing. Most people just want to finish and check things off rather than enjoy the slow moments. The quiet moments. This series is filled with them. I am excited for you to embark on this journey however long it is! Enjoy every second.
Regarding Mistborn… it’s the end of the trilogy that ties everything together in a way that makes it amazing. If it is not too hard for you, I would highly highly recommend reading the trilogy.
The way of the king book is so intersting and I like your thoughts on that . I oblige your wit and hope you will keep on reading book to save our confidance in books.
Hi Thomas really enjoyed your excellent video of 10 Books to read before I die An amazing list you have. I have read several on that list and they are outstanding. I am reading a classic ' The Count of monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. A truly fabulous book. Thoroughly recommend it highly.
If you are ever feeling nastalgic over your childhood, I highly reccomond Boy's Life by Robert McCammon. I have never read a book that captures the whimsical and magical feeling of childhood so well!
First time watching on your channel, your list was pretty interesting. I got intrigue with Dune and Way of kings tho I know that books were popular but havent touch those hahahah. Excited for you to dwell those list. Enjoy.
An excellent list. I have read four of those named, I have two on my own tbr list and you are making me intetested in the others you mentioned, apart from Dune. I tried it decades ago but it was too 'dry' a book for me to get into it. Happy reading. Newly subscribed.
I just want to add Lonesome Dove watch the tv adaptation. Robert Duval plays Texas Ranger Augustus McCrae, he said it was the most emotive character he has ever played, it moved him deeply, and Tommy Lee Jones plays the other Ranger Woodrow Call. Some other famous names in it, you are bound to recognise. It is an amazing story.
Whoa I love those two actors. Thank you for the heads up! I will for sure give it a watch when I’m done with the book. That’s usually how I like to approach it. Except with Dune because I wanted to see the directors take on it first.
What an awesome list! It's interesting that although the Lord of the Rings trilogy was first published in the early 1950's, it's still read and talked about. It's timeless. And based on your comments, I think you'll enjoy both King books. Along with 11/22/63, I think they're his three best. Speaking of King, how's it going with Pet Sematary? Any trouble sleeping? That book gives me goosebumps just thinking about it. And your choice of Dune is spot on. Don't be turned off if the pace is slow at the beginning; keep at it and you'll be rewarded.
Thank you! It's amazing how timeless Lord of the Rings is. Even the films. I've heard of that book! I heard great things about it. It is for sure on my King books I want to read. Pet Sematary is awesome. I'm only 150 pages in. I still know nothing about the book and what happens so its exciting to experience this mystery without any foreknowledge. Sleeping like a rock! No nightmares yet.
And about Dune, I LOVE slow paced stories. Once I finish reading Wheel of Time I feel like I will appreciate Dune in a new light. Robert Jordan had clear inspirations from Dune.
That's a much better way to make a reading list :) I have so many unread books on my shelf and on kindle, that it sometimes feels a bit overwhelming. But I like your way of thinking. Maybe I'll make my own list of books to read before I die :) If you haven't read Flowers for Algernon, Of Mice and Men or The Lathe of Heaven, I would like to recommend them. I am currently trying to come out of a year long reading slump, and I started reading Empire of Silence last night, so far so good. Off the top of my head, I would also add LOTR and Hitchhikers guide to the galaxy to my before death-reading list, then maybe also The Dandelion dynasty, Sword of Kaigen and Book of the new sun :)
I’m actually planning on doing a video related to that topic. That it’s okay to be a slow reader and not always reading 100 books a year for the sake of a contest! I was actually recommended Flowers of Algernon a year ago and totally forgot about it! Thank you for bringing it back to the surface for me!
Hitchhiker’s Guide is a gem! No other book has made me laugh out loud like that one! From what I am hearing about what type of books you enjoy I feel I must suggest to you, “Crime and Punishment”, by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. I read it for the first time a couple years ago and was absolutely amazed by what I had read! Enjoy what you already have planned. I have read most of them and they are all fantastic books!
those are some absorbing titles you have there. i would recommend you start with The Stand just because i reckon you will sail through it like everyone else does. i have that same grinder. i'm subbed and interested and will be chiming in. i'm currently reading Dan Simmons' Flashback. just finished Stanislaw Lem's The Truth and Other Stories. (get it? lol) i'm slowly reading Marcus Aurelius and the stoics, but just a bit at a time daily. i'm waiting for the next Southern Reach volume to drop and will jump right into that when it does. my TBR's are just the pile on the table at the moment and if they are not from the library, they go right back into the corner box to recirculate. cheers from Boise Idaho, a college town and Capital city with lots of books.
Sadly I didn’t get much time to explore the city nor find all the local bookstores! But I did try Neckar Coffee. Easily in my top two favorite coffee shops in America.
Just recently read Dune, half way through Dune Messiah right now. From what I hear you definitely don't have to complete the whole series, but to get the kind of end of the story of the main character from Dune you'll need to read Messiah as well, thankfully it's significantly shorter. Basically like a lost fourth part of the first books three parts.
I love coffee and books as well. Great list. If you like Jordan's 'Wheel of Time' books, you really must read Stephen R Donaldson's The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant. After having read all Tolkien as a teen, trying other fantasy books afterward made me feel the genre was spent. Then i read Donaldson's work. I have to say though, if I were forced to add just one author to your list, it would be Philip k Dick. The single greatest Sci Fi author ever...
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yes indeed. "Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep". My first read of his, and the start of a lifelong love affair. if you've seen the movies "The Minority Report", "Total Recall", "A Scanner Darkly", the TV show "The Man In The High Castle", all of those are adaptations of his works. It's staggering how far ahead of his time he was...
I’m reasonably new to reading as a hobby. I really enjoy the Grimdark and LitRPG sub genres. But my absolute favorite book of all time as of now is Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman. Planning on doing my first reread here soon when I finish Full Murderhobo.
Ya I grabbed Two Fires because I was playing Elden Ring and wanted to read something of that same tone. Still haven't read it but I aim too eventually.
@@Thomas.R.Howell yeah I recommend it to anyone with an ear. My wife still hasn’t come around to it but I think that’s because she sees what I normally read and doesn’t have the stomach for it lol
Just finished Pet Semetary and it's my favorite horror book so far. I'm 30% in to IT and am curious if it'll be dethroned. My wife and I both disliked Mistborn. When I told my coworkers that recommended it to me what I thought about Mistborn, you would have thought I shot Brandon Sanderson. However, I do plan on reading his other work. Night stand book(s): IT and Crime and Punishment..
Thats a great list! I have read two books on your list, IT and Lord of the Rings. Loved Lord of the Rings, the only fantasy I've ever read. Lonesome dove is also on my list, I am not sure when I will read it, but I know I will at some point. Have you read 100 years of solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez? I struggled to read and finish that book, I gave up twice but picked it up again because I couldnt put the book behind me and kept thinking about the story. After the third try I started at the beginning again I finished it, and what a incredible book. I am so glad didnt give up, it was so worth it at the end.
Love it! I’m so excited to read the books on my list! Have you given fantasy another look? Id recommend my favorite book of all time…Name of the Wind. It’s not like most fantasy books. And it’s some of the most beautiful prose I’ve ever read! I’ll give that book a look! Isn’t it fun never give up on a book? Even if it takes a few tries. It’s SO rewarding!
Heads up... Stormlight Archive starts out really boring. Get past 2 chapters and you will be heavily invested in the characters. Brando Sando is the GOAT of character building.
try The Andromeda Strain first. i really got into Crichton back in the day after reading that one and followed up with Eaters of the Dead. i recently enjoyed his Timeline.
From this list I only read LOTR, Dune and Lonesome Dove and they were all excellent! (HGttG I read about a half and it stopped being funny for me at that point, but other friends really enjoyed)
Which of those were your absolute favorite?? In regards to comedy in books it’s tough to consistently be funny without it getting old. That’s why I’m amazed with Dungeon Crawler Carl how it’s so consistently funny and it knows when to be funny and when to get serious.
Dungeon Crawler Carl sounds like a great book to have handy after a grueling week at work. I really need to read lonesome dove. I don't know why I keep putting it off (other than the enormous size of it) because I have not heard a bad thing about it.
Right!? I love books like that. Just simple dumb fun to turn your brain off too. There are many books and series I want to attempt that really work the brain. So it’s good to have those turn off your brain books close by! I’ve heard nothing but good things. GREAT things actually about Lonesome Dove.
It’s funny you mention book length being daunting. After being so deep into wheel of time, I feel like a 800-1,000 page stand alone book can be a breeze. I only say that because Wheel of Time has 14 books each over 700 pages 😂
@@radiantchristina Hey I saw you mention Name of the Wind is one of your favorites! I love that! So on the topic of book length, how did you feel about the length of Name of the Wind? To me it flew by. Words have never flowed so beautifully. I was sad when I turned the last page.
@@Thomas.R.Howell funny. When i read Name of the Wind that was before social media and even though I was always a fast reader I remember just taking my sweet time with it because I loved the world. It's one of the few books where length meant nothing to me ! Now I feel like I want to re read it. I'm going to think about rereading it early next year.
The First Law series by Joe Abercrombie is an excellent read if you like stories a bit darker. I'm also reading wheel of time but only finished book one.
Currently reading a book called boys in the valley, that was recommended by a couple of book tubers as a great spooky season read. So far it’s been pretty interesting, involves a catholic boys orphanage in the early 1900s that has a lot of demonic activity occurring due to events that happened early on in the book.
IT is a must read, if you like Stranger Things you'll really enjoy IT. I personally think the LOTR movies are far far better than the books. I can't really think of any other TV show or series where I prefer the screen adaption so much. The books are fine, but if the movies didn't exist I don't think I would have really been that bothered. For their time and for the influence/legacy they've had on the genre I get why people respect them, but I can see why you DNF'd it.
I LOVED stranger things. At least the first season. (I think it should’ve been a limited time show. Just keep it to one season). I’m excited for IT because it’s that classic coming of age story fighting off evil! Though I didn’t grow up in the 50s I know it’ll hit many nostalgic notes. The films of LotR are some of the best ever to be made. But I gotta read the books that inspired them. Something I didn’t touch on in the video was how LotR WAS fantasy. it paved the way for what we have now in other fantasy properties. My best friend adores the books. Id read it strictly off of his recommendation even if I haven’t seen the films. But since I watched and loved the films I have to give the books another shot!
Same here I love just talking about books. Speaking of, have you read Red Rising by Pierce Brown? I haven't read it yet but I have and will dive in soon. It might also be up your interests cause I heard it's a really good sci-fi series too.
Hey! I’ve heard of that series! I’ve heard it being a mix of Enders game and hunger games. Does that ring true? I’m not much of a sci-fi reader but once I’m through with wheel of time I’d love to dip my toes in that genre
I'm currently reading the stormlight archive, I want to finish the fourth books before the fifth comes out. But have a question for you, are you planning on reading the novella of wheel of time or have you already read it?
That’s awesome! I have not read the prequel yet. I’m saving it for after I finish the series. Whenever I miss the world of Wheel of Time and want to return to it, then I’ll dive into the prequel!
Let me save you some time. "The Stand", really wasn't that good. Two of the most important characters weren't fleshed out enough. Also, the ending of the book will not really satisfy you. There was no reason for this book to be over one thousand pages. Sadly, I was very disappointed as I really love dystopian novels. :(
I have read the Road long ago in my young years of college. I NEED to read it again now that I've grown up a bit. I feel I would appreciate it a bit more.
i havnt watched the video yet, i just seen the thumbnail. dont waste your preciouse time reading dune. i have few regrets in life so far but slogging my way through that brick of a book is definately one of them. it is one of the few ocasions where i think you should just watch the movie
Could not disagree more. This simple historical significance of dune alone makes it a must read at least once in your life. I couldn’t believe how much dune is engrained in every single science fiction story that came after it until I had read it. The story refuses to leave my mind and I have spent countless hours just sitting and thinking about it. But to each their own.
please DO NOT read those versions you have of Lord of the Rings, the print is WAY to small. I would recommend an illustrated hardcover version or just a regular paperback!!!
Who knows if I’ll like it. I know Sandersons writing style is so simple and accessible which is why I know so many love his books. I like crunchy books. Books that make me think or feel something.
I've heard both sides. Yes how it is a cult classic and a must read. But also how dry the prose are. I still want to try it out strictly for the themes and underlying messages.
This comment I totally disagree with. There is a booktuber that talks about prose, and the prose may be not what you like. However it does not make a bad book because you prefer a different style of prose. Or is it the lack of dialogue and massive amounts of descriptive text and internal thoughts of the character?
Dune is his big title but i liked The Santaroga Barrier and The White Plague a bit more. after i finished Dune, that was enough Arrakis for moi. his ConSentiency series is supposed to be good but the Dosadi Experiment was too much for me back in the day, to get into.
In your lifetime? These? I won't read them if they paid me a million - perhaps I would reconsider re Lonesome Dove and Lord of the Rings only. What an awful taste.
I’ve told the RUclips algorithm to stop showing me your videos, but I had to drop by to say this: the premise of this video is absurd. You’re young, and if you genuinely applied yourself, you could read these 10 books by the end of autumn. Wouldn’t it make more sense to make a video after you’ve actually read them? Ridiculous.
If you watched the video you’d learn a little bit of what kind of reader I am. I take my time. I like to enjoy my time reading books. I believe in not reading a book for the sake of finishing a book. Because to me, that’s no fun. I want to enjoy the journey of reading. Honestly I’m thankful RUclips has the option to stop recommending channels. Because I too don’t like wasting my time. Time is precious. Hence why I like to take my time when I read.
13:06 i watched that video and thought this guy will like dune cause the way it is written,i think you will like it,i have currently read the first two books of the dune series and they are so good
I’m excited! The author of Wheel of Time had very clear inspirations from Dune especially with its themes and messages and I’m excited to not only read it because of that but because it’s a classic. A timeless classic. With a message that is still prevalent today.
Support the channel with a cup of coffee ☕️:
buymeacoffee.com/thomasromanhowell
So many books, so little time
I also prefer to read books slowly, and its a good reminder, especially in the midst a culture so obsessed with "consuming" as much "content" as humanly possible, to take your time with things. It is good to sit with books, and learn their ideas, absorb the themes and setting, and spend time with its characters. That's one reason why I love the Wheel of Time so much, especially in its slower moments. Art shouldn't be a speed run!
Love the video and your whole vibe, cheers!
YES! Yes to all of this! Not just booktube culture but society in general fixates on over consumption! Every trend I see on book tube is all about book hauls and read as many books as you can in a year!
I embrace the fact that I’m a slower reader. However I’ve gotten a lot faster over the years. But my attitude stays the same. I want to be intentional with my time and with the books I choose to read! That’s what this list is all about.
Thank you so much for hanging out! What book are you currently reading?
@@Thomas.R.HowellI am currently making my way through David Foster Wallace's "Infinite Jest." Its a massive book that touches on many subjects you talk about-consumerism, blind entertainment, and the evils they present. One of the main plot lines is a group of radical political rebels hunting down the "perfect entertainment," which according to the author if such a film exists then it would have unrivaled influence over our culture. DFW was very vocal that art must have a larger purpose than being solely entertainment. As he says, "Fiction's about what it is to be a fucking human being." I think this is beyond true and a wonderful way to view art.
The beauty of books and literature as a whole is that this exploration of humanity can manifest in literally an infinite number of ways. George R. R. Martin has said that he writes about the human heart in conflict with itself. Now, I have not read his books yet, but from what I hear they are very grim. And that's okay in and of itself - hell, Stephen King is probably my favorite author next to Tolkien. But good fiction, if we look at it the way DFW and GRRM do, is a way to explore humanity in a thousand different ways, whether that be through fantasy, sci fi, literary fictions, horror, romance, a western, anime, manga, film, TV, or any combinations of these. My point is that books (and stories) can be anything they want to be, they are the fruit of an author's heart, and this very act of creation I believe is one of the holiest things we can do as human beings.
Hope you don't mind my ramblings. May I ask, if you were to recommend one book to anybody you passed on the street, what would it be?
Whoa that sounds like an amazing concept! I might have to give that a try. Especially since I’ve been feeling this way the past year or so toward modern society. I’m a filmmaker originally. I make wedding films for a living so seeing this form of creativity and storytelling be crushed by large money hungry studios has dampened my mood toward the craft. That book might have to be added to my list!
That is a very tough question! I don’t normally like to recommend Willy nilly just because it can come off annoying. Especially since I get super excited with books. My favorite book is Name of the Wind. But I’d only recommend it if the other person likes slow stories. Where nearly nothing happens. But you feel immense emotion throughout this naturally paced story.
So pretty much I have to see what that person likes or doesn’t like. Id pretty much ask questions to see where they are at before I recommend something!
@@Thomas.R.Howell The Name of the Wind is an incredible book. I believe it is one of fantasy's finest proofs that it is a genre that matters. I hope that Rothfuss will one day be able to finish his masterpiece.
I've not read Lonesome Dove or Dungeon Crawler Carl, but I've read the rest of those, and I must say you've got yourself an excellent list there my dude. If you're as slow a reader as I am, that's a year plus of great reading even if you don't intersperse it with other books.
Hearing this makes me even more excited to dive into these!
What was your favorite among this list?
@@Thomas.R.Howell both Dune and Lord Of The Rings are high up in my top 10, although not being a RUclipsr I haven't ordered my top 10. I'd say probably LOTR ranks above Dune, but I also just finished reading it to my kids (and it was a great time), so that may bias my choice there.
@@Thomas.R.Howell if you don't mind my asking, which one off that list are you leaning towards reading first?
That’s a tough one! Probably something small and light since it’ll be right after Wheel of Time.
I’m leaning toward Dungeon Crawler Carl!
I feel like reading to your kids adds a whole new level of enjoyment toward a book or series.
I liked Harry Potter. I didn’t love it since I didn’t really grow up with it. I read it as an adult. However whenever I have kids, I feel like I’ll fall in love with it with my kids!
I clicked on this video and I would of thought you had a huge channel already, that’s how well put together this video was! I’m slowly getting into reading and this video definitely opened my eyes up to some great options!
Wow that means a lot! I’m really happy you found your way here!
That’s awesome you want to start reading! What genre peaks your interest?
So recently I’ve just been reading self help type books, I just recently finished reading my first book in years which is “the RUclips formula”, a book that I was very interested in because I want to build a RUclips channel of my own, currently I’m reading “Think and grow rich” by napoleon hill. I just want to acquire as much knowledge I can when it comes to achieving my goals, and reading these books drives me to keep working and have faith in myself. When it comes to fiction I’m not sure which books I would gravitate to yet there is just many options out there. But I know when it comes to video games I love horror so maybe a horror book might be a good start. What are some of your favorite horror books you’ve read?
Love it dude! A few self help books I love are the Steal like an Artist Trilogy. Helps put creative work into perspective.
Dude! My wife and I are going to play Alan Wake 2 next month! What are some of your favorite horror videogames? We love the resident evil games. RE 2 and 4 remakes were S tier.
For horror books I’d start with Stephen King. He’s the true OG when it comes to horror.
Salem’s Lot. The Shining. Pet Semetery just to name a few!
Thanks for the recommendation! The resident evil franchise is actually one of my favorites ever, some other horror games I love are outlast 1 and 2, I remember I played the first one when I was younger and I couldn’t even go more than 10 minutes into the game because I was that scared. But then I went back to play them about a year ago and I absolutely loved them, especially the first
RE is truly some of the best video gaming ever. I have a soft spot for the OG resident evil 4 on Wii. My first rated M game my mom let me play.
Ya the outlast series I hear so many good things. Yet I’m too big a baby to give it a shot 😂
There’s a need for more well made channels like this. Well done and good recommendations, keep making great videos!
Wow Thank you for this encouragement! I'll do my best!
Lonesome Dove is everything to me right now. I'm trying so hard not to just inhale it in a week. Perfect Fall read.
Whoa the perfect fall read!? Without spoilers what aspects make it a good fall read? I’m intrigued!
I’ll chime in here - IDK what about it makes it a perfect fall read specifically, but it’s one of my all-time favorite novels. I’m not even that into westerns either. It’s just great storytelling with amazing characters & fantastic dialogue. I ended up reading all 4 books in the quartet. They’re all great, but Lonesome Dove is the best. The story is completely self-contained, so it’s not like you’re committing to having to read all 4 to get closure either. I read it a couple years ago and wondered why I put it off for so many years.
@@Thomas.R.Howell it's a very comfortable read by the fireside.
ugh lonesome dove is such a masterpiece and wish i could read it for the first time all over again - awesome list!
Love it! Just more reason for me to read it haha
Hello Thomas, this is a great video, love the idea of picking 10 books at a time I want to read rather than thinking I've got hundreds of books to read.
Lonesome Dove is an epic book. I finished it about a week ago. Took me almost 200 pages to get into it. I’m so glad I stuck with it to the end.
So many of these are also on my list to read. I'm a homeschool mama, so I spend so much time reading books for my kids (literature and real book based methods). I love making time to read for myself, LOTR was the first big book that I read for myself a few years back and it has changed how I read. Dune and & Hitchhiker's Guide are on my lifetime TBR (which is a bit more than 10) in honor of my father who passed away this year. They were some of his favorites when he was younger, and led to a lifetime of sci-fi love. I've been reading more sci-fi this past year as a way to connect with his memory.
Wow thank you for sharing your story. Memory is a beautiful thing. Reliving and cherishing memories of our past. of our loved ones. It's a wonderful gift to remember. And it is a gift to honor our loved ones through our lives. This month will be 9 years since I lost my mother. I watch home videos and read her letters around this time of year.
I love that you are reading books to honor your father. That is so beautiful.
Hitchhikers Guide is also surprisingly philosophical. Its philosophically absurd slant is worn on its sleeve without interrupting the fun of the book. This is probably due, in part, because Absurdism encourages laughing at the void, and embracing the absurd, "One must imagine Sisyphus happy" and all that. I actually think in many ways Adams does a better job of evoking Absurdism to someone curious than many of Camus' works.
I’ve read about half of these and the other half are also on my list. This would be the perfect time of year for IT, it’s one of my favorite horror books of all time. If you struggle with LotR I would suggest the audiobook version. It really helps to have a great story teller.
Love it! I really want to challenge myself to read through lord of the rings rather than audio book. Especially if it’s my first time. After I finish it I’d love to try the audio book because there is a version by Andy Serkis
Lonesome Dove and It are actually on my top 10 to read before I die. I’ve read The Stand and LOTR and they’re both epic as hell.
Lonesoome Dove is my all time favorite. My husband listened to it on his long drives to work. He ended up listening to the whole series, watched the miniseries,' tv shows, and movies. He finished them about 3 months ago and said he felt a huge hole in his heart. He talked about starting them over but moved along for the time being.
Ugh even more reason for me to get excited! Super pumped to dive into it!
Not sure if you do audiobooks but if you do (you can read the book while listening) I recommend the IT audiobook. The narrator did a fantastic job which made me enjoy it more. I listened with a physical copy on hand. I liked the Mistborn series but The Stormlight Archive Series ,so far, is way much better. I'm on book 3 and have enjoyed each one so far.
I don't particularly do audio books. I genuinely enjoy the physical medium of reading a book. However if an audio book is a well done performance, I might give it a go just to experience the narrator. I've done it with the Bill Hodges trilogy and the Outsider. Each are performed by Will Patton and I think he's truly the greatest audiobook performer.
I’m currently in college and for English 1002 I am required to do a 10-12 page research project about any piece of writing. I chose to write about The Cosmere and the stories within it because it’s such a beautiful universe. I believe stormlight archive will be the next classic, I’m so biased to it at this point but please please please read all of stormlight.
Stop it, you're making me want to drop the book I'm reading now to dive in to Stormlight! I love that you're doing your project on something you're passionate about.
I started The Way of Kings around april and let me tell you its worth reading. The world building and the character development is really good. I'm currently on book 3 right now and I'm having a blast 😊
Love it! You’re on pace for December in time for his new book! Is that your goal??
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yes! but I'm not in a hurry, There's going to be a lot of information bombarded at you as you progress to the series so I'm just taking it slow 🤣
Hello Thomas,
Thanking the algorithm for having you to show up. 🎉🎉🎉
After a big Beatles biography i will start on either Blood meriidian or Lonesome dove. Two books on the wild west and in my head seeing them as a sort of duo. Dont ask why.
And for sure i can recommend It and the Stand. The forner i read three times, and its a gift that keeps on giving. Such a gem!
So, Beatles first and then a deep dive into the wild west!
I like your list very much, enjoy and kind regards from the Netherlands.
thank youuu so so much for this and all video that you posted!! i feel that you do it with pleasure and it`s really cool! i miss this feeling when you have someone to talk with about books but it`s actually soso cozy to listen you! now i`m reading "on the road" by keruak but you know it`s such a really road-movie book so sometimes i get tired of reading it
That means a lot! Thank you! I wouldn't want to make a video if I wasn't honest and being myself. So happy to have so many people care and want to hang out!
@@Thomas.R.Howell glad to see! thank you for your content i hope you`ll continue doing it
The Last Unicorn is one of my all time faves! So delicate, profound, poetry like fairytale, I hope you'll get to enjoy reading it as much as I have :)
Love to hear this! I might have to give it a read after Salem's Lot!
got your channel recommended, glad to find your channel, here to stay!
thanks for the video, a great one!
Thank you so much! Means a lot
Jurassic park is one of my favourite books I've ever read (so far!) I read it once as a 10 year old and only really remembered the dinosaurs and the gore, then I reread it when I was 20 and there's so much more depth that I hadn't taken in. The corporate espionage plot is much more apparent than it is in the films and can actually be quite funny. If you enjoy it, I would definitely recommend the sequel Lost World, it's even more of a departure from the film adaptation than the first book is.
I cannot wait!!!
Dude this is the first video of yours I ve seen, and that intro was so smooth, i couldnt belieeeve you only have 900 subs. Great work
Thank you dude! I feel unworthy but I am truly grateful!
@@Thomas.R.Howell also, after watching your video, I ended up realising that I have read many of the books you stated, while at the same time still thinking I havent read much lol. Point is, I think we readers will never be satisfied with what we still have left to read haahaaaha
@@gustavolamego9913 haha What are some of your favorite books from the list that you've read?
I think what matters most is which books stick with you years later. I'm actually making a video on that lol
@@Thomas.R.Howell stormlight is my favorite series, and I agree that if you didnt enjoy mistborn, you might still enjoy stormlight a lot. There is no feellings of YA here. Also dune is amazing and there is more to learn than what thee movies show (still really amazing tho)
Nice list! Lonesome dove, the way of kings, and finally going back and finishing lord of the rings are on my list as well
Thank you! Love it!
I’m going through the audio book version of dungeon crawler Carl and it’s absolutely amazing.
If you want another super long fantasy series, look at the saga of recluce.
Great video, I have some similar books on my list! I love your tips as well, I ended up deleting my TBR and making a 10 as well.
Also I cant believe Book of the New Sun - Gene Wolfe isnt on your radar yet, seems right up your alley as a slow, thoughtful, introspective book with exciting setting/world/story
Thank you!
I’ll have to look into it! I’ve never heard of that…
I just got through Dungeon Crawler Carl. Like your wife I would break out in laughter. I bought books 2, 3 & 4.
I am currently reading Piranesi by Suzanne Clarke. She wrote Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell. I am loving it. Very different from Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell. Her prose is simple, yet beautiful.
Another book I love to recommend (mainly because everyone I've recommended the book to loved it as much as I did) is City of Thieves by David Benioff. It's not fantasy but it is one of my favorite books. Benioff was one of the showrunners for HBOs Game of Thrones.
Love to hear it! I can't wait to read Dungeon Crawler Carl! My wife is on book 2 already and she got her co-workers to all read to too lol
@@Thomas.R.Howell I look forward to hearing what your take is on it. As soon as I finish Piranesi I am going to start Dungeon Crawler Carl.
As i was hitting the like and subscribe buttons - out of sheer habit (!) your closing part totally caught me of guard, and was very refreshing! theres substance in your videos, which is nice :)
I really appreciate that! I just want to be myself. I want to be honest with this channel. Thank you for joining my journey!
I’ve read LOTR, IT, and The Stand from your list. It’s been ages, but I loved all of them. I get grief for it, but I also loved The Hobbit. Also, they filmed part of the mini series The Stand (back in the 90’s) two houses down from my house. Exciting stuff!
That is so cool!
The Hobbit is VERY cozy
Absolutely awesome list my man. You picked the two King must reads. I love the stand, tough read but after you go through the whole journey you’ll find yourself looking back fondly with good memories even years later. It is definitely my favourite book from King as I love the coming of age stories that just bring you back to a time that was simpler. Jurassic park is terrifying and offers discussion on the ethics on the manipulation of genetics which was quite interesting. Dune is LONG and dry but it’s worth the read the most out of all the books on the list. I’m currently on two towers of lord of the rings, the series is good but requires a slow burn, also don’t ignore the songs they are super important and add so much! The rest of these I haven’t read yet and they’re all on my list too. I hope you enjoy the journeys😁
Thank you for your insight on these books! Makes me more excited to dive into these!
I don’t understand why people complain about songs in books. I think they add so much to not only the story but the world itself!
@@Thomas.R.Howell exactly!! Music is a huge part of the culture it belongs to and understanding the different cultures of the many groups of people in the books only increases the understanding of the story and the world it takes place in.
I watched a few more of your videos and I like the style of your channel and what it’s about so I subbed. Keep up the good work and I’m excited to see what’s next!
Yes I agree! I love Name of the Wind because the main character is a musician. Though there aren’t a lot of written “songs” in the book, there is plenty of music being played. And how that’s written leaves me in awe!
Wow I’m honored! Seriously thank you so much!
I've read six of these and am currently reading a seventh: Way of Kings. I like it, but it's definitely simple, has surface level meaning, and thus is popcorn entertainment (and we all need that every so often!). Lord of the Rings and Dune are actual literature, and two of my all time favorites. I also own Eye of the World, but haven't gotten around to it yet 😊
That is so cool! Ya idk what it is with Sanderson but his writing just didn't jive with me with Mistborn. VERY surface level. However I am loving his work in the last three books of Wheel of Time.
Although I haven't read Dune or LotR, I do agree with those two being actual literature. I think people should consider Wheel of Time to at least be in that wheel house or very close to it. There is nothing out there like WoT. The long form storytelling. You just don't see that nowadays. It's brilliant.
Excited for you to dive into Eye of the World!
@@Thomas.R.Howell A good friend of mine keeps telling me to read all the Wheel of Time stuff; I'll get around to it eventually. I would argue that Sanderson values situations, setting, and plot over character study and what drives the characters.
Best wishes with what you choose to read. I hope you get some exciting stories.
Dungeon Crawler Carl is sooo good! Although I’d recommend the audio books for it because they add a lot, I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading them too! Although I enjoy more ‘serious’ books I do also love a good dumb funny book
I’m looking forward to reading Foucault’s Pendulum by Umberto Eco, it’s a chunky boy, but sounds super interesting and fun
I can't wait!
Surprised this guy doesn’t have more subscribers based off that quality intro
Dude thank you
I’m still figuring things out if I want to always have a coffee intro or just dive right into talking. I just want that home like feel. As if I’m inviting the viewer into a comfortable living room. Nice coffee and a good book.
As you've been getting into Stephen King, I would highly recommend Billy Summers. It's not a Horror book, more so a thriller and honestly, I can't find anything like it and it's such an amazing read. It's being adapted apparently by JJ Abrams and Leonardo Decaprio.
Give me a good 3 sentence elevator pitch!
@@Thomas.R.Howellguy is brought in to do his final hit, 6 months maybe in preparation for his final target. His undercover persona is a writer, through this you learn about his brutal past. Once the bullet is shot, you’ll be question where you’re going, what is going on, who are these people.
Additional sentences 😂 - the book and what it’s set up to be are there but once you hit what you think is the climax of the book, you now truly get into it, the people, the world and Billy.
Honestly it’s just an outstanding read that I can with 100% certainty say you’ll love.
I can give you my experience with Lord of the rings book, It took me more than a year to finish, the main reason was because I have seen too many times the movies, and whole chapters just didn't surprise me, but trust me, it worth the effort of reading it, there are pretty beautiful scenes in the book and also deepens a lot in lore. I didn't finished IT, I just found too boring the streets descriptions of gargantuan proportions. Respect to Dune, when I read it, I had mixed feelings about it, I liked a lot the worldbuilding but I founded too slow paced, but when I watched the movies I felt grateful, because in the movies there are a lot of cryptics things that if you didn't read the book you just don't notice or understand, so it's a must read if you want to watch the movies.
Each time that I have finished reading Lord of the Rings I have wanted to just go right back to page one and read it all again!
@@mipsungvuclam It gave me the same feeling, even if it took me one year the first reading, but I will not coming back to middle earth until I read the silmarillion (which I'm waiting for a good deal). If you didn't read the hobbit yet, I encourage you to do it, is way better than the movies.
@@pabazafa3855 Never bothered with the movies. Three movies for a book shorter in length than The Two Towers told me all I needed to know.
just finished way of kings loved it! i'm a big wheel of time fan and honestly stormlight archives feels like a perfected fantasy series
That’s awesome! Are you excited for the new book in December??
I'm on book 2 of Wheel of Time. The book that actually got me into reading heavily was Dune. I wanted to read it before the movie came out. What I thought would be a one-and-done thing turned into a year of working through the 6 main books and then the 2 sequels. Until I was told about the Lamb Among the Stars series, Children of Dune was my favorite book. I had the first page of that book made into the lapel flowers(?) for my groomsmen and I in my wedding. Most people that I know that have read Dune stopped after Children but the story goes much deeper after that one. God Emperor is the perfect book for a slow read. So much philosophy to bask in. I get not wanting to jump into another series right after a long one, but you should really take the time for Dune as soon as you feel ready and then venture into the rest of the series.
I'm a wedding filmmaker full-time and that is by far the coolest idea I've heard of for a lapel!
Dune is dense for sure and it isn't for everybody. But those who have read it all the way through love it. Wheel of Time took a lot of inspiration from Dune. I'm on book 12 of WoT, I'm jealous you get to start the journey fresh because I never want it to end. How are you liking WoT??
@@Thomas.R.Howell so far it’s really good. I did take a break after Eye of the World because it was a just a lot. I will say that in my current mission of slowing down and just trying to simplify things and take time to actually enjoy slow moving parts of life, WoT is helping with that. It takes a lot to move through these books from what I’ve seen and it just goes to show that reading is about so much more than just entertainment or learning. When I’m slowing down to read these books I’m surprised at much that practice bleeds into my everyday life. Not everything has to be a box to check off. Something’s are just meant to be enjoyed so that you can dwell on them for years to come and share that experience with others. I very much enjoy watching your content and I think you going against the speedy culture of today is very much needed.
@@alexandersmith2318 Every single word you said I wholeheartedly resonate with. I love this. Wheel of Time I think has shaped me into the reader I am today. It's given me a new perspective in the midst of our VERY fast world.
The series is slow and that is a good thing. Most people just want to finish and check things off rather than enjoy the slow moments. The quiet moments. This series is filled with them. I am excited for you to embark on this journey however long it is! Enjoy every second.
Regarding Mistborn… it’s the end of the trilogy that ties everything together in a way that makes it amazing. If it is not too hard for you, I would highly highly recommend reading the trilogy.
Congrats on hitting 1k subscribers!!!
I’m BLOWN AWAY!!! I genuinely have no words…
I’m grateful to be part of this journey, you are going to be SUCCESSFUL!!! I have absolute faith in you
I love the vibe. Automatic subscribe 😁
Thank you😭
Dune and Dune Messiah are both great. Children of Dune is a difficult first half but really picks up the second half!
The way of the king book is so intersting and I like your thoughts on that . I oblige your wit and hope you will keep on reading book to save our confidance in books.
I’ve only read Dune and The Stand on your list and they’re great! Definitely interested in some of the other books on your list
Just finished lotr last week, well technically I'm still in the appendix 😅, but highly recommend it, I can't wait to dive into the legendarium!
Hi Thomas really enjoyed your excellent video of 10 Books to read before I die
An amazing list you have. I have read several on that list and they are outstanding. I am reading a classic ' The Count of monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. A truly fabulous book. Thoroughly recommend it highly.
Such a good book. A masterpiece of art
i have that on my table. will get to this winter. Robinson Crusoe is a favorite of mine, gads i loved that one.
If you are ever feeling nastalgic over your childhood, I highly reccomond Boy's Life by Robert McCammon. I have never read a book that captures the whimsical and magical feeling of childhood so well!
First time watching on your channel, your list was pretty interesting. I got intrigue with Dune and Way of kings tho I know that books were popular but havent touch those hahahah. Excited for you to dwell those list. Enjoy.
The last unicorn is really beautiful
I peaked at the first page and can already tell the prose are absolutely beautiful.
An excellent list. I have read four of those named, I have two on my own tbr list and you are making me intetested in the others you mentioned, apart from Dune. I tried it decades ago but it was too 'dry' a book for me to get into it. Happy reading. Newly subscribed.
I just want to add Lonesome Dove watch the tv adaptation. Robert Duval plays Texas Ranger Augustus McCrae, he said it was the most emotive character he has ever played, it moved him deeply, and Tommy Lee Jones plays the other Ranger Woodrow Call. Some other famous names in it, you are bound to recognise. It is an amazing story.
I’m truly honored! Thank you for following along!
Which 2 books are on your TBR??
Whoa I love those two actors. Thank you for the heads up! I will for sure give it a watch when I’m done with the book. That’s usually how I like to approach it. Except with Dune because I wanted to see the directors take on it first.
What an awesome list! It's interesting that although the Lord of the Rings trilogy was first published in the early 1950's, it's still read and talked about. It's timeless. And based on your comments, I think you'll enjoy both King books. Along with 11/22/63, I think they're his three best. Speaking of King, how's it going with Pet Sematary? Any trouble sleeping? That book gives me goosebumps just thinking about it. And your choice of Dune is spot on. Don't be turned off if the pace is slow at the beginning; keep at it and you'll be rewarded.
Thank you! It's amazing how timeless Lord of the Rings is. Even the films.
I've heard of that book! I heard great things about it. It is for sure on my King books I want to read.
Pet Sematary is awesome. I'm only 150 pages in. I still know nothing about the book and what happens so its exciting to experience this mystery without any foreknowledge. Sleeping like a rock! No nightmares yet.
And about Dune, I LOVE slow paced stories. Once I finish reading Wheel of Time I feel like I will appreciate Dune in a new light. Robert Jordan had clear inspirations from Dune.
“What’s on your nightstand” ❤️
Right now it’s Pet Semetery!
That's a much better way to make a reading list :) I have so many unread books on my shelf and on kindle, that it sometimes feels a bit overwhelming. But I like your way of thinking. Maybe I'll make my own list of books to read before I die :)
If you haven't read Flowers for Algernon, Of Mice and Men or The Lathe of Heaven, I would like to recommend them. I am currently trying to come out of a year long reading slump, and I started reading Empire of Silence last night, so far so good.
Off the top of my head, I would also add LOTR and Hitchhikers guide to the galaxy to my before death-reading list, then maybe also The Dandelion dynasty, Sword of Kaigen and Book of the new sun :)
I’m actually planning on doing a video related to that topic. That it’s okay to be a slow reader and not always reading 100 books a year for the sake of a contest!
I was actually recommended Flowers of Algernon a year ago and totally forgot about it! Thank you for bringing it back to the surface for me!
@@Thomas.R.Howell that sounds great! I’ll be looking forward to your video 😊
Hitchhiker’s Guide is a gem! No other book has made me laugh out loud like that one!
From what I am hearing about what type of books you enjoy I feel I must suggest to you, “Crime and Punishment”, by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. I read it for the first time a couple years ago and was absolutely amazed by what I had read! Enjoy what you already have planned. I have read most of them and they are all fantastic books!
try Dead Souls by Gogol. it might give you a chuckle after that one.
those are some absorbing titles you have there. i would recommend you start with The Stand just because i reckon you will sail through it like everyone else does. i have that same grinder. i'm subbed and interested and will be chiming in.
i'm currently reading Dan Simmons' Flashback. just finished Stanislaw Lem's The Truth and Other Stories. (get it? lol)
i'm slowly reading Marcus Aurelius and the stoics, but just a bit at a time daily. i'm waiting for the next Southern Reach volume to drop and will jump right into that when it does. my TBR's are just the pile on the table at the moment and if they are not from the library, they go right back into the corner box to recirculate. cheers from Boise Idaho, a college town and Capital city with lots of books.
Wait I was literally just in Boise this past weekend! I am a traveling wedding filmmaker and filmed a wedding north of Boise!
Small world!
Sadly I didn’t get much time to explore the city nor find all the local bookstores! But I did try Neckar Coffee. Easily in my top two favorite coffee shops in America.
@@Thomas.R.Howell too late! too late! can be the cry.
we are in the north end too. bummer.
@@Thomas.R.Howell aw, man. come by and stay a bit next time.
i'll drop by Neckar and tell them.
Just recently read Dune, half way through Dune Messiah right now. From what I hear you definitely don't have to complete the whole series, but to get the kind of end of the story of the main character from Dune you'll need to read Messiah as well, thankfully it's significantly shorter. Basically like a lost fourth part of the first books three parts.
That’s good! I’ve felt stuck just reading series so it’s nice to know I only have to read 2 books instead of the entire series!
The Way of Kings has such joy in it. Don't wait too long. #journeybeforedestination
I can’t wait
I love coffee and books as well. Great list. If you like Jordan's 'Wheel of Time' books, you really must read Stephen R Donaldson's The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant. After having read all Tolkien as a teen, trying other fantasy books afterward made me feel the genre was spent. Then i read Donaldson's work. I have to say though, if I were forced to add just one author to your list, it would be Philip k Dick. The single greatest Sci Fi author ever...
Didn’t he write the book that inspired Bladerunner?? I have that book!
LOVED both films
@@Thomas.R.Howell Yes indeed. "Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep". My first read of his, and the start of a lifelong love affair. if you've seen the movies "The Minority Report", "Total Recall", "A Scanner Darkly", the TV show "The Man In The High Castle", all of those are adaptations of his works. It's staggering how far ahead of his time he was...
What!? That’s wild! Now I have to check those out!
I loved IT and lonesome dove
I’m reasonably new to reading as a hobby. I really enjoy the Grimdark and LitRPG sub genres. But my absolute favorite book of all time as of now is Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman. Planning on doing my first reread here soon when I finish Full Murderhobo.
Ya I grabbed Two Fires because I was playing Elden Ring and wanted to read something of that same tone. Still haven't read it but I aim too eventually.
@@Thomas.R.Howell yeah I recommend it to anyone with an ear. My wife still hasn’t come around to it but I think that’s because she sees what I normally read and doesn’t have the stomach for it lol
Just finished Pet Semetary and it's my favorite horror book so far. I'm 30% in to IT and am curious if it'll be dethroned.
My wife and I both disliked Mistborn. When I told my coworkers that recommended it to me what I thought about Mistborn, you would have thought I shot Brandon Sanderson. However, I do plan on reading his other work.
Night stand book(s): IT and Crime and Punishment..
Thats a great list! I have read two books on your list, IT and Lord of the Rings. Loved Lord of the Rings, the only fantasy I've ever read.
Lonesome dove is also on my list, I am not sure when I will read it, but I know I will at some point.
Have you read 100 years of solitude by Gabriel Garcia
Marquez? I struggled to read and finish that book, I gave up twice but picked it up again because I couldnt put the book behind me and kept thinking about the story. After the third try I started at the beginning again I finished it, and what a incredible book. I am so glad didnt give up, it was so worth it at the end.
Love it! I’m so excited to read the books on my list! Have you given fantasy another look? Id recommend my favorite book of all time…Name of the Wind. It’s not like most fantasy books. And it’s some of the most beautiful prose I’ve ever read!
I’ll give that book a look! Isn’t it fun never give up on a book? Even if it takes a few tries. It’s SO rewarding!
Dungeon Crawler Carl is a very enjoyable read!! I hope you enjoy it
Let’s goooooo
Heads up... Stormlight Archive starts out really boring. Get past 2 chapters and you will be heavily invested in the characters. Brando Sando is the GOAT of character building.
I'm all for slow stories. Even if nothing is happening, something is still happening! So that doesn't sound like an issue to me.
I would like to read Jurassic park someday. I started it but never finished it
try The Andromeda Strain first. i really got into Crichton back in the day after reading that one and followed up with Eaters of the Dead. i recently enjoyed his Timeline.
I shouldn't worry too much about Dune.
lol who knows when I will get to it or when I will actually feel up to it. Maybe when I am 50. Or 70. Or 90.
@@Thomas.R.Howell No worries.
From this list I only read LOTR, Dune and Lonesome Dove and they were all excellent! (HGttG I read about a half and it stopped being funny for me at that point, but other friends really enjoyed)
Which of those were your absolute favorite??
In regards to comedy in books it’s tough to consistently be funny without it getting old. That’s why I’m amazed with Dungeon Crawler Carl how it’s so consistently funny and it knows when to be funny and when to get serious.
Dungeon Crawler Carl sounds like a great book to have handy after a grueling week at work.
I really need to read lonesome dove. I don't know why I keep putting it off (other than the enormous size of it) because I have not heard a bad thing about it.
Right!? I love books like that. Just simple dumb fun to turn your brain off too.
There are many books and series I want to attempt that really work the brain. So it’s good to have those turn off your brain books close by!
I’ve heard nothing but good things. GREAT things actually about Lonesome Dove.
It’s funny you mention book length being daunting. After being so deep into wheel of time, I feel like a 800-1,000 page stand alone book can be a breeze. I only say that because Wheel of Time has 14 books each over 700 pages 😂
@@Thomas.R.Howell i get that lol
@@radiantchristina Hey I saw you mention Name of the Wind is one of your favorites! I love that! So on the topic of book length, how did you feel about the length of Name of the Wind?
To me it flew by. Words have never flowed so beautifully. I was sad when I turned the last page.
@@Thomas.R.Howell funny. When i read Name of the Wind that was before social media and even though I was always a fast reader I remember just taking my sweet time with it because I loved the world. It's one of the few books where length meant nothing to me ! Now I feel like I want to re read it. I'm going to think about rereading it early next year.
The First Law series by Joe Abercrombie is an excellent read if you like stories a bit darker.
I'm also reading wheel of time but only finished book one.
Joe is a legend. I’ve heard amazing things about him and his writing. I hear his character work is second to none!
Currently reading a book called boys in the valley, that was recommended by a couple of book tubers as a great spooky season read. So far it’s been pretty interesting, involves a catholic boys orphanage in the early 1900s that has a lot of demonic activity occurring due to events that happened early on in the book.
That sounds like a wild concept!
Dune is the best book I have ever read
i think i'm the first Vietnamese fan :v
IT is a must read, if you like Stranger Things you'll really enjoy IT.
I personally think the LOTR movies are far far better than the books. I can't really think of any other TV show or series where I prefer the screen adaption so much. The books are fine, but if the movies didn't exist I don't think I would have really been that bothered. For their time and for the influence/legacy they've had on the genre I get why people respect them, but I can see why you DNF'd it.
I LOVED stranger things. At least the first season. (I think it should’ve been a limited time show. Just keep it to one season). I’m excited for IT because it’s that classic coming of age story fighting off evil! Though I didn’t grow up in the 50s I know it’ll hit many nostalgic notes.
The films of LotR are some of the best ever to be made. But I gotta read the books that inspired them. Something I didn’t touch on in the video was how LotR WAS fantasy. it paved the way for what we have now in other fantasy properties.
My best friend adores the books. Id read it strictly off of his recommendation even if I haven’t seen the films. But since I watched and loved the films I have to give the books another shot!
Your thoughts on reading the original language versus the translated version? Does it even matter?
Bruh, love ur channel bout to do the same for the lord of the rings
dude thank you!
@@Thomas.R.Howell get on the hitchhiker bandwagon asap, your welcome 🙏
LOTR is definitely is must ☑ Excellent
YES! It’s crazy to think it was written so long ago. It set the path for everything else fantasy!
@@Thomas.R.Howell That's right. Tolkien's poetry is now out, if you're interested by Harper Collins
Whoa a book of Tolkien poetry?? That’s wild!
@@Thomas.R.Howell 🔥
Same here I love just talking about books. Speaking of, have you read Red Rising by Pierce Brown?
I haven't read it yet but I have and will dive in soon. It might also be up your interests cause I heard it's a really good sci-fi series too.
Hey! I’ve heard of that series! I’ve heard it being a mix of Enders game and hunger games. Does that ring true?
I’m not much of a sci-fi reader but once I’m through with wheel of time I’d love to dip my toes in that genre
You should try reading infinite jest
Someone else just recommended it in the comments. Currently researching it now! Such a wild concept yet so universal to today’s society.
Incredible book!!!
@Thomas.R.Howell
I dont know what your reading level is but Infinite Jest is very heavy in vocabulary and extremely convoluted. Just be warned.
I wanna read It so bad, but it makes me think of John Wayne Gacey. And that creeps me out.
I'm currently reading the stormlight archive, I want to finish the fourth books before the fifth comes out. But have a question for you, are you planning on reading the novella of wheel of time or have you already read it?
That’s awesome! I have not read the prequel yet. I’m saving it for after I finish the series. Whenever I miss the world of Wheel of Time and want to return to it, then I’ll dive into the prequel!
How’s Stormlight??
@@Thomas.R.Howell it's a very slowed paced series but it's always worth it
@@Netflixtmoney I love me some slow paced storytelling
hi whats the song at the start of video
Hey! I haven’t forgotten about you. When get back from my trip I’ll look the song up!
Completely off topic but I would love to know the brand of that flannel, looks awesome 😂
Brixton! Some of the best quality I’ve ever seen in clothes!
Let me save you some time. "The Stand", really wasn't that good. Two of the most important characters weren't fleshed out enough. Also, the ending of the book will not really satisfy you. There was no reason for this book to be over one thousand pages. Sadly, I was very disappointed as I really love dystopian novels. :(
i disagree but to each his own. have you read The Road? i'm not a dystopian fan but that was a bleak one.
I have read the Road long ago in my young years of college. I NEED to read it again now that I've grown up a bit. I feel I would appreciate it a bit more.
if you want a dystopian rec, try Simmons' Flashback. so far it fits the bill.
Have you read shogun ?
I have not!
@Thomas.R.Howell 100 percent recommend. It's a large book, but completely worth the time.
@@stig12er After reading Wheel of Time which is 14 books each 700+ pages...nothing seems like a long book to me haha I'll have to give that a look!
i havnt watched the video yet, i just seen the thumbnail. dont waste your preciouse time reading dune. i have few regrets in life so far but slogging my way through that brick of a book is definately one of them. it is one of the few ocasions where i think you should just watch the movie
Could not disagree more. This simple historical significance of dune alone makes it a must read at least once in your life. I couldn’t believe how much dune is engrained in every single science fiction story that came after it until I had read it. The story refuses to leave my mind and I have spent countless hours just sitting and thinking about it. But to each their own.
please DO NOT read those versions you have of Lord of the Rings, the print is WAY to small. I would recommend an illustrated hardcover version or just a regular paperback!!!
I AGREE! They are the worst! haha. I'll be looking for some paperback versions in the future.
I bounced hard off The Way of Kings, dropped it after the end of Part 2. Not good.
Who knows if I’ll like it. I know Sandersons writing style is so simple and accessible which is why I know so many love his books. I like crunchy books. Books that make me think or feel something.
Uff big disagree on the extended versions argument of the lotr movies. They're badly paced, bloated and clearly the inferior films
Honestly i would not read Dune. It is very imaginative and a cult classic but it is so badly written it is painful to read at times.
I've heard both sides. Yes how it is a cult classic and a must read. But also how dry the prose are. I still want to try it out strictly for the themes and underlying messages.
This comment I totally disagree with. There is a booktuber that talks about prose, and the prose may be not what you like. However it does not make a bad book because you prefer a different style of prose.
Or is it the lack of dialogue and massive amounts of descriptive text and internal thoughts of the character?
Dune is his big title but i liked The Santaroga Barrier and The White Plague a bit more. after i finished Dune, that was enough Arrakis for moi. his ConSentiency series is supposed to be good but the Dosadi Experiment was too much for me back in the day, to get into.
In your lifetime? These? I won't read them if they paid me a million - perhaps I would reconsider re Lonesome Dove and Lord of the Rings only. What an awful taste.
I’ve told the RUclips algorithm to stop showing me your videos, but I had to drop by to say this: the premise of this video is absurd. You’re young, and if you genuinely applied yourself, you could read these 10 books by the end of autumn. Wouldn’t it make more sense to make a video after you’ve actually read them? Ridiculous.
If you watched the video you’d learn a little bit of what kind of reader I am. I take my time. I like to enjoy my time reading books. I believe in not reading a book for the sake of finishing a book. Because to me, that’s no fun. I want to enjoy the journey of reading.
Honestly I’m thankful RUclips has the option to stop recommending channels. Because I too don’t like wasting my time. Time is precious. Hence why I like to take my time when I read.
'nothing makes sense, and neither does everything else." Joe Heller from Something Happened.
16:49 I started reading 1984 and man your words are so true
I tried reading 1984 but it felt too eerie. Too close to home. It honestly almost made it on my list!
13:06 i watched that video and thought this guy will like dune cause the way it is written,i think you will like it,i have currently read the first two books of the dune series and they are so good
I’m excited! The author of Wheel of Time had very clear inspirations from Dune especially with its themes and messages and I’m excited to not only read it because of that but because it’s a classic. A timeless classic. With a message that is still prevalent today.