soju + ravioli

As far as I'm concerned there are 3 different types of fictional books.

The first type are the classics. These are the works of authors such as Austen, Dickens, Tolstoy, Dante and Shakespeare. They sit in a category all their own and really don't need much explanation.

The second is the modern book that inspires us and makes us think. These books challenge us to stand up for something we believe in (The Hunger Games and Harry Potter). They make us view our lives and those in it a little differently (Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance and The Art of Racing in the Rain). They stay with us after we read the final word on the final page. They resonate throughout our lives, draw us into their story, absorb us in the struggle of the characters. They're not quite classics but they still inspire us.

The third is the modern "fluffy" book. These are books like Twilight and the Stephanie Plum series. They're fun reads but there's not much depth to them. Once you close the book, you move on with your life and don't think about them too much. That's the main thing that sets them apart from the second category: they distract you for a few hours but don't resonate throughout your life.

I believe that all 3 categories are necessary.

The classics are necessary in that they are classics. They show where we've come from and lay the foundation for almost everything that follows.

The second category tends to be a little easier to read. Let's face it, the old English and whatnot used in many of the classics can make for slower reading. They're more accessible in that they often reflect modern themes and concerns in a way that classics often don't. Most importantly they inspire us and make us think about our lives.

Everyone needs a little fluff in their life. When soaking in the bath tub or lolling on the beach, after finals are finished and you're lacking in brain power or at 2 AM when you can't sleep and just want something to do until you fall asleep. That's when these books come in handy. They don't require much investment on your part which is nice sometimes.