On March 15, 2020, the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) was implemented in Luzon. This put all of us in solitary confinement, forcing us to be in our own homes 24/7.
Look, I'm a homebody. A weeb, an aspiring NEET, a social recluse, whatever you may call it. Staying home is the object of my dreams. I'm well aware that the situation was nothing to be happy about. But hey, when a global pandemic is out to get you, you gotta learn how to go with the flow and make the most of the situation. Escapism, believe it or not, is your friend. For me, this entailed reading books.
Over two months, I successfully binged on five books. That's a huge feat for someone who always struggles reading a book per month. Here are the five literary pieces that got me through ECQ:
1. Good Omens by Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman is known for his world-building prowess and his ability to create bizarre universes in many different ways. For a fantasy junkie like me, he's a god.
Good Omens follows the story of an angel, Aziraphale, and his demon friend, Crowley, as they try to stop the impending Armageddon that will be triggered by the son of Satan. It's a hilarious account of a devastating apocalypse through the perspective of immortal, supernatural beings. And oh, the bromance here is the cherry on the cake.
I've read other books by Gaiman, and to tell you the truth, his writing style is my favorite. The hilarity isn't forced, and his writing comes off as serious yet quite amusing.
I also saw the TV adaptation on Amazon Prime, and what can I say other than I fell in love? The series followed the book closely, and a lot of the dialogues from the book were lifted almost word-for-word. They modified some scenes, added details, and threw in characters, but not to the point where it's disconcerting and maddening like that adaptation that shall not be named.
If you are looking for a feel-good, low-key gay rom-com, then check out Good Omens.
2. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
I will never get tired of reading this book over and over again. Adam Silvera never fails to deliver outstanding stories that linger in the hearts of those who read them. Take this one, for instance.
The story revolves around two teens, Rufus and Adam, who each receive a call from Deathcast — a company capable of forecasting one's death. Rufus and Adam are told that they're going to die sometime in the next twenty-four hours. With limited time in their hands, they struggle to live for the day. It takes the saying "live each day as if it's your last" to another level.
What I love about this book is it talks about death, loss, and pain in a way you've never seen before. The two main characters are thrown into a conflict that they can never run from—their inevitable deaths—and are forced to deal with it by, well, living. Ironic, isn't it?
3. Wonder by R.J. Palacio
If you're a fan of lighthearted books that are almost screaming a message, you will love this one.
Wonder tells the story of a 10-year-old boy named Auggie Pullman who is unlike any other children. It's not just the difference in his appearance that makes him unique. He also can be kinder than necessary in all situations and people, even bullies.
If you need a dash of inspiration, this book is your friend!
4. The Memoirs of Lady Hyegyeong
I love autobiographies as much as I love my Percy Jackson books, and this one is a favorite.
This autobiographical manuscript is a four-part account of a crown princess in 18th century Korea, Lady Hyegyeong. The manuscript details her life before she was first taken to the palace, her days as the crown princess, and the controversial demise of her husband, Crown Prince Sado.
That last bit is what makes this book ten times interesting, as it's a significant event in Korean history. Mentioning Crown Prince Sado's name was considered taboo in the next decades after his death. Although the sad story behind Crown Prince Sado's death only came to light in the memoir, it has been an interesting and intriguing part of Korean history for a long time.
There's something about this autobiography that made it a page-turner. If I were to try and put it into words, I'd say it's the raw sadness of Lady Hyegyeong's long life and how it was shaped by her experiences in the palace.
This book is sadder than it is entertaining, it's an autobiography after all. So if you are not looking for a serious read, this one is not for you.
5. A List of Cages by Robin Roe
This book is heartbreaking as much as it is inspiring. It's about two boys, Adam and Julian, rekindling their friendship over the former's final year in high school.
A List of Cages is a morbid read, be warned. It tackles physical and mental abuse quite graphically. Contrasting the dark themes, though, are some lighthearted scenes, with Adam's kind-hearted nature giving life to everyone around him.
A List of Cages has a powerful message about the importance of caring, being kind enough to notice what people are going through, and just being an excellent companion to lean on.
There you have it! I hope this selection sparked a light in you during these dark times! Until next time, and happy reading!
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