Andy Mitchell
Staff Writer
“The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” (1979)
Douglas Adams
Plot: An exceedingly average man goes on an intergalactic journey. Hilarity ensues.
Importance: The first novel of the greatest science-fiction satire series is also one of the most re-readable books in print. Underneath the razor sharp jokes are modern philosophies that feel just as timely today.

Justin Weaver
Campus Editor
“The Godfather” (1969)
by Mario Puzo
Plot: The book, published three years before the first film hit theaters, strings together the plot of the first “Godfather” while diving deeper into the backstory of Vito Corleone’s mafia empire.
Importance: People tend to forget that the greatest movie in American film history was originally a brilliantly vivid novel from the mind of Mario Puzo. And, thankfully, Sofia Coppola is nowhere to be found in the text.

Katie Trusk
City Editor
“Me Talk Pretty One Day” (2000)
David Sedaris
Plot: It’s the third overall collection of Sedaris’s comedic and personal essays.
Importance: Sedaris has mastered the art of having his readers actually feel for him as he recounts his most humiliating and life-altering experiences in his collections of essays. Those who can sympathize with Sedaris or can even just find the humor in everyday situations will not be disappointed by the rest of the book.

Ryan Strong
Day Editor
“Black Boy” (1945)
Richard Wright
Plot: Journalist Richard Wright’s autobiography is about growing up in the deep south during the Jim Crow era.
Importance: The memoir focuses on discrimination Wright experiences from being both highly gifted and African-American. It is narrated from the perspective of a black man who wants to receive an education but is held back because of racism. Wright leaves readers with a real taste of living during that time.

John Puterbaugh
Editor in Chief
“Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998)
Hunter S. Thompson
Plot: An ample supply of illegal drugs turns a simple assignment on the Mint 400 motorcycle race into a radical commentary on the “American Dream.”
Importance: Hunter S. Thompson’s “Gonzo Journalism” is an interesting take on how to tell a story through the eyes of those living the story. Thompson reveals perspectives on life that are just plain interesting and worth opening your mind to.

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