Summer is upon us. And whilst school is out, many of us still find it impossible to stay away from books. Perhaps it is because we are reading by choice and not for some test not too far away. There are many types of books, which appeal to people for as many reasons. One of those mentioned below can be your #GreatSummerRead; but they sure selections on the #GivesMeLife list for our teenAGErs this week.GABRIELLE MCDOWELL: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell #givesmelife. It has given me a lot of insight into the core attributes of a great leader. Leadership is important and achievable on many levels, regardless of industry. It has allowed me to explore myself on a deeper level. One  day I hope to inspire those who need my guidance. LOUIS DAVIS: The Silver Sword by Ian Serralier #givesmelife. It is the only book I legitimately enjoyed reading, up to this day. The plot line is good, and the twists keep you interested. Plus it is simple to read.SHANIQUE HAYDEN: Why Your Life Sucks and What You Can Do About It by Alan Cohen. The book literally #givesmelife. Simply put: everything in life –good and bad– stems from you, the individual. RASHIDA BYFIELD: Even though there are many ‘inspirational’ books, Bedazzled by Beatrice Small #givesmelife. It is a fictional historical romance about a young girl who is defiant and  falls into much trouble,  but true love prevails. It teaches about never giving up and fighting for what belongs to you. It also teaches a person to recognise their flaws.DI-ANDRA BROWN: The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak #givesmelife. It’s about a young girl growing up in the Holocaust, and the family that adopted her. It brings one through a range of emotion, as we essentially grow up with her. It is a beautifully executed story.NOVARO THOMPSON: 1984 by George Orwell #givesmelife. It shows a realistic view of a dystopia future,  where all our thoughts and actions are controlled by our government; something that can happen unless the people stand up against brutality and surveillance. SHANTAL PELLINGTON: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill #givesmelife because it made me realise that the source of abundance is within ourselves. It is in realising that that it becomes easier to transmute our desires into the physical realm.KESI MORTLEY: National Geographic #givesmelife because it keeps me in touch with what is happening in the world. It keeps me up to date with the effect humanity has on the world, and vice versa. Plus,  their photographers are amazing,  evident in their breathtaking images. JAVELL MOTHERSILL: Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys #givesmelife. This book shows the many sides of the same story. It also highlights the extent to which individuals would go for money; the self-serving nature of the patriarchal society, as well as how the need for love can drive someone to insanity.DEVARO BOLTON: Gifted Hands by Ben Carson #givesmelife. Just stepping into high school,  this book was of real inspiration that made me realise that hard work does pay off.MED: Count of Monte Cristo by is excellent!It offers intrigue, suspense, romance and revenge. It is action-packed (after the first 150 pages or so, as it takes a while to build);but it is so worth it! Written in 1844, Alexander Dumas (who also wrote The Three Musketeers) knows just what #givesmelife! #GreatSummerRead.LAURICE GAYLE: The Long Road Home by Danielle Steele #givesmelife. It provides a vivid insight into the protagonist,  Gabriella Harrison’s life. Broken as an abused and rejected child,  she faces even more trials as an adult.  Her journey is filled with love,  lust, sorrow,  adventure, heartache, and wait for it… More abuse.  But it’s the underlying themes of courage, strength, compassion and healing tnat #givesmelife. This book is sure to make you cry, cringe,  swoon,  and smile; all in one.

EDITOR’S PICK:

READERS’ PICK: