Maya's Staff Picks (Top Favorite)

I highly recommend these top-rated books as a must-read because they offer a unique blend of captivating storytelling, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes that will resonate with readers of all genres. These books have been widely acclaimed for their exceptional writing, well-developed plots, and ability to evoke emotions, making them a valuable addition to any bookshelf. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure, a heartwarming romance, or a journey of self-discovery, these books are sure to captivate and leave a lasting impression long after the final page is turned. In addition, the non-fiction titles provide valuable knowledge and expert insights on topics such as science, history, and personal development, while the biographies grant readers a unique glimpse into the lives of inspiring individuals who have shaped our world. Meanwhile, the sci-fi and fantasy novels transport us to new and imaginative realms, exploring complex themes and ideas that challenge our understanding of the universe and our place within it. With their engaging narratives, well-researched content, and memorable characters, these books are sure to educate, entertain, and inspire, making them a must-read for anyone looking to expand their minds and broaden their horizons.

Showing 1 - 15 of 15  There are a total of 105 valid entries on the list.
Book cover for "Catching fire"
Star rating for Catching fire
Series:
Hunger Games volume 2.
Average Rating:
4.7 stars
Description:
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games. But now that she's made it out of the bloody arena alive, she's still not safe. The Capitol wants revenge... and President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe! By winning the annual Hunger Games, District 12 tributes Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark have secured a life of safety and plenty for themselves and their families, but because they won by defying the rules, they...
Book cover for "Eclipse"
Star rating for Eclipse
Series:
Twilight saga volume 3.
Average Rating:
4.4 stars
Description:
"As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to...
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Average Rating:
4.8 stars
Description:
When the Chamber of Secrets is opened again at the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, second-year student Harry Potter finds himself in danger from a dark power that has once more been released on the school.
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the deathly hallows"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the deathly hallows
Average Rating:
4.9 stars
Description:
At a time when the forces of evil seem to be gaining the upper hand, Harry comes of age in the wizarding world, and must take on and defeat Voldemort--or be killed himself.
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the goblet of fire"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the goblet of fire
Average Rating:
4.8 stars
Description:
Fourteen-year-old Harry Potter joins the Weasleys at the Quidditch World Cup, then enters his fourth year at Hogwarts Academy where he is mysteriously entered in an unusual contest that challenges his wizarding skills, friendships and character, amid signs that an old enemy is growing stronger.
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Average Rating:
4.9 stars
Description:
Harry searches for the full and complex story of the boy who became Lord Voldemort, and thereby finds what may be his only vulnerability. Sixth-year Hogwarts student Harry Potter gains valuable insights into the boy Voldemort once was, even as his own world is transformed by maturing friendships, schoolwork assistance from an unexpected source, and devastating losses.
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Average Rating:
4.8 stars
Description:
Fifteen-year-old wizard Harry Potter struggles with a threatening teacher, problematic house elf, the dread of upcoming final exams, and haunting dreams that hint toward his mysterious past.
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the prisoner of Azkaban"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the prisoner of Azkaban
Average Rating:
4.8 stars
Description:
During his third year at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry Potter must confront the devious and dangerous wizard responsible for his parents' deaths.
Book cover for "Harry Potter and the sorcerer's stone"
Star rating for Harry Potter and the sorcerer's stone
Average Rating:
4.8 stars
Description:
Rescued from the outrageous neglect of his aunt and uncle, a young boy with a great destiny proves his worth while attending Hogwarts School for Wizards and Witches.

10. Heidi

Book cover for "Heidi"
Star rating for Heidi
Average Rating:
5 stars
Description:
A Swiss orphan is heartbroken when she must leave her beloved grandfather and their happy home in the mountains to go to school and to care for an invalid girl in the city.
Book cover for "The Hunger Games"
Star rating for The Hunger Games
Series:
Hunger Games volume 1.
Average Rating:
4.8 stars
Description:
In a future North America, where the rulers of Panem maintain control through an annual televised survival competition pitting young people from each of the twelve districts against one another, sixteen-year-old Katniss's skills are put to the test when she voluntarily takes her younger sister's place. "In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol...
Book cover for "Little women"
Star rating for Little women
Series:
Average Rating:
4.6 stars
Description:
Chronicles the joys and sorrows of the four March sisters as they grow into young ladies in nineteenth-century New England.
Book cover for "A long walk to water"
Star rating for A long walk to water
Average Rating:
4.2 stars
Description:
When the Sudanese civil war reaches his village in 1985, eleven-year-old Salva becomes separated from his family and must walk with other Dinka tribe members through southern Sudan, Ethiopia, and Kenya in search of safe haven. Based on the life of Salva Dut, who, after emigrating to America in 1996, began a project to dig water wells in Sudan. When the Sudanese civil war reaches his village in 1985, eleven-year-old Salva becomes separated from his...
Book cover for "Mockingjay"
Star rating for Mockingjay
Series:
Hunger Games volume 3.
Average Rating:
4.5 stars
Description:
Katniss Everdeen's having survived the Hunger games twice makes her a target of the Capitol and President Snow, as well as a hero to the rebels who will succeed only if Katniss is willing to put aside her personal feelings and serve as their pawn.
Book cover for "The perks of being a wallflower"
Star rating for The perks of being a wallflower
Average Rating:
4.3 stars
Description:
Caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it, Charlie is navigating through the strange worlds of love, drugs, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," and dealing with the loss of a good friend and his favorite aunt.