A Valentine's-Themed Book Tag but Featuring All Genres
(for people who don't like romance but want to participate in the fun)
Most Valentine's Day tags are about the best love stories, but in this one, we'll be talking about falling in love with books from all kinds of genres.
I don't like romance novels that much, but I still wanted to participate in the February fun. This led to the creation of this tag. This is the first tag that I've made, and I hope you enjoy it!
1. First Love
Share a book that introduced you to a genre you now love. How did it capture your heart?
I'm never going to forget the very first YA fantasy book I ever read. I was eleven years old, and my family was going on a trip for spring break. We booked an Airbnb, and I remember finding a novel in the bookshelf on the mantle. It was "Dragon Rider" by Cornelia Funke, and I enjoyed the book so much!
Yes, even 10-year-old me enjoyed YA novels. In fact, the primary age demographic that reads YA are middle schoolers. And the primary age demographic for middle-grade novels are late elementary school. So there's something a bit wrong with the system.
But that's a topic for another time. For now, let's just thank that Airbnb owner who expanded my reading horizons. After finishing "Dragon Rider", I went home and read all of Cornelia Funke's other books. I learned that they were part of a new category: Young Adult Fantasy. And, ever since then, this genre has been my favorite.
2. Heartbreaks and Happiness
Name a book that put you through an emotional journey. What was the ride like?
This is an easy question: "All the Things We Never Said" by Yasmin Rahman. Where do I even start? "All the Things We Never Said" was one of the best novels I read last year. No, scratch that. This is one of the best novels I've ever read, period.
This book isn't about a bunch of cool girls taking down a big, evil website. Instead, it's about how a website promoting self-harm affected the protagonists and their journeys struggling with anxiety. If you're looking for "A Good Girl's Guide to Murder" type of novel, this might now be for you. But if you're in the mood for an uplifting read that embeds unique themes in a non-preachy way, you've found exactly what you're looking for.
You can find my full review of "All the Things We Never Said" here, where I go more in depth on how amazing this book was. It even made me cry! And I rarely cry when reading books. This is Yasmin Rahman's debut novel, so let's show support for her works.
3. Blind Date with a Book
If had to recommend a book to someone without knowing who that person is, what book would you choose? Focus on a book you think everyone would enjoy.
I had to think about this question for a little bit, but I would choose "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" by Rick Riordan. This novel is almost a classic- practically every single teenager has read it (and if they haven't, they should).
With the release of the new Percy Jackson TV series (or, it's new as I'm writing this, at least) this novel getting another wave the recognition it deserves. In fact, I even posted a review of the episodes here on this blog. Annabeth and Percy are one of the few book couples I'm going to ship forever.
The best part of the book is the casual writing style. I tried reading Harry Potter for the first time last week, and I couldn't even bring myself to finish the first three chapters. Percy Jackson, on the other hand, is amazing.
4. Familial Bonds
Recommend a book that explores the complexities and beauty of family love.
Darcie Little Badger’s ability to blend classic fantasy elements with modern issues sets "Sheine Lende" apart. The novel is not only a fantasy adventure but also a reflection on the societal challenges we face today, wrapped in a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
5. Surprise Date
What book not marketed as romance surprised you with a compelling love story or a profound exploration of love?
This question was a lot harder. I had to look through the complete list of books I've read to find an answer to this one, but I think I've decided on an answer: "The Fault in Our Stars by John Green.
This book tells a powerful love story between Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers facing cancer. Their romance is filled with humor, sadness, and moments of joy, showing how love can thrive even in tough times. When my friends recommended it to me, they talked about how Augustus is relatable to everyone and the hidden themes, but the most underrated aspect of the book is the actual romance.
Love and life are precious, no matter how short. Hazel and Augustus share a deep bond that touches everyone who reads about them. Here's my review!
6. Friendship First
Discuss a book where friendship stands out stronger than romantic love. Why did it resonate with you?
I chose "Amina's Voice" by Hena Khan, a touching and insightful novel that explores the life of Amina Khokar, a Pakistani-American girl navigating the challenges of middle school, friendship, and cultural identity.
As a shy and talented singer, Amina grapples with stage fright and the fear of losing her best friend, Soojin, who seems to be changing and forming new friendships. Amina gradually feels more and more forgotten, and it was so emotional and heartbreaking to read.
7. Self-Love
Which book inspired you to reflect on self-love and personal growth? Share how it influenced your perspective.
Well, her journey highlighted the importance of resilience, courage, and the strength found in embracing your true self, despite the adversities she faced. This booktok sensation pushed me to reconsider the value of standing firm in my convictions and the power of self-reliance.
8. Love for a Place
Name a book made you fall in love with its setting, be it a real place or a fictional world, and describe its allure.
Probably "The Mystery Writer" by Sulari Gentill. I was so immersed in this novel. This was the kind of book that stayed up during the night to read. If I had to capture the ambience of this book in a few words, I would describe it as the result of heavy dark academia mixed in with some cozy lofi mystery.
Set against the backdrop of a quaint village in the USA, the novel's setting is as much a character as the people inhabiting it, with its lush greenery, historic cottages, and an air of mystery.
This setting not only serves as the perfect stage for a gripping tale of mystery, it ignited a longing in me to wander through the serene paths, uncovering the stories hidden in the shadows. Read my full review of it!
9. The Language of Love
Name a book you love that uses a unique narrative style or an author's voice that you love.
I can't believe it's been four months since I posted my review of Nightshade Academy by Mel Torrefranca. It feels like a week!
Mel’s writing style was unique and made amazing book enjoyable to read. She wasn’t heavy on the descriptions, but included them when needed. In fact, she mentioned in a video that she followed the motto, “When in doubt, cut it out,” which was visible in her writing.
I loved the ominous tone and dark aura that hung over the words. I was hooked from the very first sentences: Yahshi Konya was an easy target. His scarlet coat restricted his movement, crinkled with every step, and stood out against the evergreens.
10. A Love Letter to Books
Which book would you write a love letter to, and why? This could be a book that has been instrumental in your life, one that you return to repeatedly, or one that holds a special place in your heart.
I first read Keeper of the Lost Cities in 3rd grade, and it's been one of my favorite series ever since then. I've been a bookworm for as long as I can remember, and I have this vivid memory of reading KOTLC on the benches during lunch when all my friends played on the playground.
I was going to be Biana for halloween one year- but then Covid hit. Still, KOTLC is always going to be my go-to comfort read. I can't believe I haven't reread the first book in the series in a year! I suppose I don't really need to, because all the characters are forever ingrained in my memory.
I read Stellarlune the moment it came out, though, and it was so nostalgic.
✰ Conclusion ✰
Wow, that was a trip down the memory lane. I hope you loved reading this as much as I enjoyed it writing it! Okay, now it's time to tag people, and write up some rules, I guess? I'm not entirely sure how this works. but let's do it.
✰ Rules ✰
✰ Other stuff ✰
I was going to tag people, but it's wayyy to late to do this for Valentine's Day 2024. So, instead, I'm thinking I'll tag people at the start of Feb in 2025.
If you somehow stumbled upon this post, then please feel free to try this tag anyway. Have fun!
Paige C, signing off.
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