Think of this list as your 12-step
program to an enlightened world view. Obviously there isn’t room to include
everything, but this eclectic sampling will have a profound impact on your
thinking. As with any list, there are notable exclusions. You’ll notice the
Bible isn’t on here. While it’s an unquestionably great book, it will probably
be Required Reading by Law soon – so you can read it then or go to jail!
1.The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell with Bill Moyers
A magnificent overview of Campbell’s lifelong work on the importance of
myth. Many modern problems stem from the fact that we’ve lost touch with our
mythological roots. Find out what makes humans tick.
2.Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy
This tale of good and evil and blood and guts set in the unforgiving Old
West is the finest novel from a living writer – bar none. The Judge is waiting
for you.
3.The Third Wave by Alvin Toffler
Uncle Newt’s favorite book, but don’t let that scare you. A profound
blueprint for understanding the chaos in today’s world. Incredibly, this book
was published nearly 15 years ago and remains as timely as ever.
4. Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy O’Toole
This author committed suicide after his manuscript was rejected by over 20
publishers; his mother later saw that it was published. Despite the tragic
undertone, it is one of the funniest books I’ve ever read.
5. Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance byRobert
Pirsig
A beautiful meditation on the philosophical concept of Quality. It is
complex and difficult to read, but it will take you to an incredible level of
deep thought.
6.On the Road by Jack Kerouac; Howl by Allen Ginsberg;
Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs
The holy trinity of the Beat Generation. These three books launched the
vast cultural changes of the Sixties. Make sure you read them before you get
out of school and take that cushy job at [insert major corporation here].
7. Budding Prospects by T. Coraghessan Boyle
By now you’re ready for a little light reading, so this delightful spoof
about some hapless marijuana farmers will keep you giggling all the way
through. (Note: Can be read while stoned with minimal concentration
problems.)
8. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey
A true American masterpiece. Even if you’ve seen the movie 10 times, you
owe it to yourself to read the book.
9. Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis
Lewis is somewhat of a forgotten genius, but his work has the timeless
quality of great art. This story of what happens when you take work too
seriously could have been written this year.
10.The Way Things Ought to Be by Rush Limbaugh
What?! All right, J.C., this time you’ve gone too far! Wait,
I included this not because it’s a great book, but because of its dangerous
distortions, falacious logic, and narrow-minded
propaganda. After reading the other books here, you should now be ready to
cut through the smoke and mirrors and see this for the hateful crap it is.
(Note: Do not buy this book! Borrow or get it from the library only!)
– J.C.Shakespeare
This article appears in June 16 • 1995 and June 16 • 1995 (Cover).