Don’t let your imagination keep you in the dark…
The lights, television and computer are all off. Your cellphone battery is also flat and cannot be recharged. All this is thanks to Eskom's load shedding. However, do not fret, there is hope and it comes in the shape of books!
With virtually no technological distractions, you can now take the time to catch up on your reading. But what to read in the peaceful glimmer of a candle and the bright moonlight?
Here is a list of some of the best books to read when load shedding take its toll:
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Washington Irving
This short tale of Ichabod Crane and his adventure in the Dutch settlement, Tarry Town, with the eerie headless horseman will capture your imagination from beginning to end.
Set in 1790, the story revolves around a school teacher who finds himself smitten with one of the more wealthier residents of the town.
But it is the legend of a spectre of the ever sinister headless horseman that captures the reader’s attention.
Brilliantly written, with a twist at the end, this is one book that should be on your load shedding reading list.
IT, Stephen King
Written in 1986, this book revolves around seven children who are being terrorised by an evil being.
The being, IT, primarily appears as a clown to gain children’s trust but it is the creatures ability to disguise itself as the children’s fears and phobias that adds to the book’s chill factor.
Reading this by candlelight will surely leave you with goosebumps…
Harry Potter series, JK Rowling
Without any distractions, launch yourself into the magical world of Harry Potter and learn more about the Boy who lived.
This is one series of books that is a must read, showing the importance of perseverance and the strength it takes in standing against injustice.
While some might feel the seven books are targeted at the younger generation, the themes will be found acceptable for all ages.
The Fault in Our Stars, John Green
This is a real tear jerker, which makes reading it in the candlelight ideal, as no one will see your tears.
The novel revolves around a 16-year-old cancer patient named Hazel Grace who falls in love with 17-year-old Augustus Waters.
This tragic story will pull at each and every one of your heartstrings and is a must read.
The Alchemist, Paulo Coehlo
Seldom does a book capture a person’s attention as The Alchemist did.
The story revolves around an Andalusian shepherd named Santiago who sacrifices his comfort to chase his dream.
One of the main attractions to the book is the symbolism that draws its reader in.
1984, George Orwell
This sinister fictional book revolves around a totalitarian society that was once Britain.
With the government spying on its people and instilling fear in its inhabitants, this book cannot be unread and will open readers’ minds to the way we see the world.
Alice in Wonderland, Lewis Carrol
Re-awaken your inner child and maybe introduce your children to the magical world of Wonderland.
This story revolves around a young girl who finds herself in a magical world and her rather silly adventures in it.
While mainly for the younger reader, this book’s humour will appeal to older readers as well.
What other books do you recommend for when the lights go out?
