After reading a blog a few weeks ago, the writer mentioned that J. R. R. Tolkien was one of the most influential writers on American Literature. It struck a chord that he was quoting several sources that proved his assumption.

I found this very refreshing. I saw a bunch of books and authors that I knew that lacked something Tolkien did. Tolkien entertained his readers through his works. My hidden assumption is that great literature was both painful to read as it would have been painful to write. (This is just my personal taste on what I have on my bookshelf/kindle).

I really loved that blog. Thinking back on it, if we consider Tolkien as a great literary author, then there’s hope that great literature doesn’t have to feel like a chore when you read it.  I would love to see high school students studying the Lord of Rings in the English class—that might make things better.

Another novel that I saw on the list was To Kill a Mocking Bird. Wow, there’s another little Gem that I love as well.

Here’s one of my favorite quotes from a great that talented author.

What great books do you love that also entertain?

Enjoy your day