Books That Are Overrated: My Thoughts on Popular Reads
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Chapter 1: Disappointing Classics
Reading is often celebrated as one of life's greatest pleasures, allowing us to escape into different worlds at any time and place. However, I'm about to take a critical stance on several beloved books that many rave about.
The following titles are considered classics, and I picked them up based on their glowing reviews. While there are certainly many books I instinctively avoid, these were highly recommended, and I felt compelled to read them to be seen as a serious reader. Unfortunately, I ended up regretting my choices.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Goodreads rating: 3.89
My rating: 1
This novel has garnered a devoted following with its tale of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy on a quest for treasure in the Egyptian desert. Many claim it has transformed their lives, and one of my writer friends reads it annually.
After much persuasion, I bought the book during a layover at an airport, thinking its brevity would allow me to finish it over overpriced coffee. To my dismay, I couldn't get through it during the layover or the long flight that followed. It sat unfinished for weeks until I forced myself to complete it. Reading should be enjoyable, but this felt like a chore. I wanted to understand why others loved it, but I simply couldn't connect with Santiago's journey.
When I share my thoughts with friends, they suggest I give it another chance. I refuse; Coelho had one opportunity with me, and it didn't resonate.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Goodreads rating: 3.93
My rating: 1
Often hailed as Fitzgerald's masterpiece, this novel of the Jazz Age is a staple in high school curriculums. However, being forced to study it stripped away any enjoyment. Analyzing passages in class, surrounded by disinterested classmates, made the experience even more unbearable. My lowest grade came from an essay on this book, which forever tainted my perspective.
On a brighter note, I excelled in writing about "Of Mice and Men," which remains one of my favorites. So it’s not that I dislike all books from school reading lists.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Goodreads rating: 3.92
My rating: F*ck
This self-help book gained immense popularity and caught my eye with its vibrant orange cover and candid title. I was intrigued by the idea of a blogger turning his successful posts into a book, but despite multiple attempts over the years, I couldn't get through it. Manson's straightforward style appeals to many, but I find it lacking compared to other self-help books. I guess I fell for the flashy marketing.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Goodreads rating: 4.38
My rating: Time Thief
Set in Nazi Germany, this novel uses Death as its narrator and has received high praise. With a personal connection to the subject, I thought I would love it. However, I found myself disinterested and skipping paragraphs, ultimately abandoning the book and even the film adaptation halfway through.
Despite my disappointment, it’s worth noting that these titles are celebrated by many. Reading is subjective, and everyone interprets stories differently.
As a final note, if you search for the most overrated or disliked books, Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code often tops the list, yet it's one of my personal favorites. Perhaps that reflects something about my taste.
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Chapter 2: Video Insights
A critical review of books that are often overhyped.
An exploration of popular books that fail to impress.