The media has recently zeroed-in on a nostalgia that seems to be universal: longing for the trends, style, and overall feeling of 2016. Amongst trends like the mannequin challenge, Snapchat filters, and the emergence of Pokemon Go, 2016 was also a notable year for books. Below is a compiled list of a few reads that are sure to give you that nostalgic feeling, some taking the top of the charts for the year and some that simply give the nostalgic feel of 2016.
The Harry Potter Series
Though timeless, the “Harry Potter” series is one that always reminds me of the mid 2010s. Although the book series concluded in 2007, the movies didn’t wrap up until 2011, and were still popular well into 2016 (and popular today). From age 11 to 17, the series follows Harry Potter, Ron and Hermoine, three wizards studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The books follow the three through a variety of adventures, battles, and mystery. J.K. Rowling’s story is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Me Before You
Although Jojo Moyes’ novel “Me Before You” was published in 2012, the movie came out in 2016, bringing attention back to the story. The story follows Louisa Clark, a woman who becomes a caretaker of a paralyzed man after losing her job. This man is named Will Traynor, and despite his depression and cynicism surrounding his condition, Louisa finds herself falling into a loving relationship with Will. If you’re looking for a tearjerker, their story is the one for you – thought provoking, heartbreaking, and enlightening.
The Hunger Games Series
With Suzanne Collins continually building on the story as recently as last year, “The Hunger Games” series is always one that brings nostalgia with it. Collins’ best seller took the world by storm with the story of Katniss Everdeen and twelve districts forced to fight for their lives. Although many have seen the movies, if you haven’t read the book, this is a story worth getting into!
The Fault in Our Stars
John Green’s 2012 novel “The Fault in Our Stars” is iconic for many reasons. For a large portion of the 2010s, quotes from the novel showed up as Instagram captions, Pinterest pins, and even phone wallpapers. One of the most iconic quotes was this: “I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, and then all at once.” Following the tragic love story of Hazel Grace and Augustus Waters, readers are swept into a painful, beautiful, and witty portrayal of young love.
The last ten years have been full of excellent reads, but there is something comforting about returning to something familiar. Whether you’ve read these before or remember the hype surrounding them, any of these stories are sure to get you into a 2016 state of mind.
