Leisure Reading Isn't Dead for College Students

Don't be surprised if a college student finds the time to read a book between classes. Harry Potter can help those students who have a deadline to beat. And those who can't afford a holiday only need to look for a book by Rick Riordan. The Texan author released “The Sword of Summer”, the first of the "Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard" series. And don't bet on Norse mythology not making the bestseller list. (If you do, then you haven't heard of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.) In fact, Young-adult fiction is alive and kicking. And let's not forget Children's literature. (It's for adult readers.) If you're an undergraduate student who is passionate on graphic novels, then you're not the odd one. Perhaps you need to look around and search for other students who share your interest.

But what about the classics?

The classics, which have been the benchmark for literary greatness, were studied for decades. Generations of college students knew these titles, only to forget them after ten years or so. Except those who love these authors. (Bless them.) It's not they prefer them over contemporary works, while others try too hard to identify the themes. If you find it hard to believe, then let's cite three titles. Here they are:

The Great Gatsby (1925) by F. Scott Fitzgerald. You don't need to study the Jazz Age to know the moral lesson. Don't. Look. Back. The characters were disillusioned, even at a loss of the place and time. If the story takes place in Paris, then it will be easy to answer the question. But there's no need to think long and hard on Jay Gatsby. Try to enjoy the moment, and look ahead (if possible). The immediate future looks promising. Christmas? Try again.

Mythology (1941) by Edith Hamilton. Every student of ancient history has a copy of this book. It's about the lives of the Olympians, and the heroics of the demigods whom they guide and protect. They seemed too fantastic, which was the reason why they were adapted countless times. You can catch a Hollywood adaptation on cable, if not read Riordan's makeover. Hamilton won't mind, as Riordan will continue the Camp Half-Blood saga next spring. Seaweed Brain is not the lead character, though.

The Catcher in the Rye (1951) by J.D. Salinger. Holden Caulfield became the poster boy for teenage angst, and you were certain that the native of Agerstown, Pennsylvania won't stand popular culture by an hour. Keeping Up with the Kardashians? Holden will swear off the Internet. He will avoid the boob tube after looking at the reality TV shows. Indeed, this teenager represents the reclusive author. And there's more. Social media exposes anyone, while a few remaining people who are like Salinger. It might be your course mate, whom you haven't noticed yet.

It's your turn to cite another title. Don't keep us waiting.