MBU Students Share their Favorite Fall Reads

Every bookworm loves a cold day spent inside with a cup of coffee and an excellent story to get lost in.

MBU students recently shared some of their favorite reads for the fall season, ranging from politically relevant historical analysis to poignant biblical commentary.

Senior information technology major Brian Thompson recommended some Orwellian reads to give students a new perspective on politics this election year.

“During the political season we’re in, people pretend to hate talking politics, but I think they secretly love it,” said Thompson, whose first pick was George Orwell’s, “Animal Farm.”

Published in 1945, the story is an allegorical satire addressing themes of Stalinism, dictatorship and overreaching government.

“It follows a group of animals who revolt against their farmer and decide to govern themselves,” Thompson explained. “On the surface it may seem childish, but it has a great point to make.”

Being a novella, “Animal Farm” is a great choice for students looking for a quick but meaningful read.

“It’s really short, so even if reading time is hard to come by, this is a good option,” said Thompson, who also suggested Orwell’s well-known dystopian classic, “1984.”

With similar underlying themes to “Animal Farm,” “1984” follows main character Winston Smith through his world of oppressive government, perpetual warfare and the omnipotent figure known as Big Brother.

After reading it, “you’ll understand the references the news makes almost daily about Big Brother,” said Thompson.

Another critically acclaimed novel offered by senior health sciences major Holly Pinson was, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” by Harper Lee.

The novel’s lead character, Scout Finch, tells a story from her perspective about her father, Atticus, who hopelessly strives to prove the innocence of a black man unjustly accused of rape, explained Pinson.

Addressing issues of racism, prejudice and false first impressions, “To Kill a Mockingbird” is filled with wise insights.

“I love this book because it teaches you about values you should have … that you should not see color and that even the most unlikely people can be the best of friends. It’s a timeless classic,” said Pinson.