Exploring Favorite Authors and Their Favorites

Books have the magical power to transport us to different times and places, inspire us with their profound insight, and provide us with a shared experience. From literary giants like Ayn Rand to beloved modern authors like Rick Riordan, each writer has their favorite books that have left a lasting impact. In this article, we will explore several favorite authors and their favorite books, discussing why these works hold such significance.

1. Ayn Rand: The Atlas Shrugged

Ayn Rand's The Atlas Shrugged is a monumental novel that transcends any single genre. This work is more than just a compelling narrative; it is a philosophical exploration of freedom, individualism, and the ethics of reality. Ayn Rand herself was a voracious reader and an even more passionate writer, and The Atlas Shrugged is pinnacle of her literary achievements. If you claim to be a true book lover and haven't read this incredible novel, then you have indeed wasted a significant part of your life exploring the world of literature.

2. Robert E. Howard: Adventure and Fantasy

Robert E. Howard is a legendary figure in the genre of sword and sorcery fiction, and one of his favorite authors was Jack London. Howard's imaginative works have captivated readers for generations, drawing from both real-world influences and fantastical elements. Some of his work is influenced by London's stories, showcasing a deep appreciation for adventure and the spirit of the wild.

Jack London, with his iconic works such as The Call of the Wild and White Fang, was not just a writer but a multidisciplinary genius who also penned poetry. Howard himself held Rudyard Kipling and Robert W. Service in high regard, and their works were a significant part of his literary canon. If you appreciate adventure, vivid storytelling, and the raw energy of the human spirit, you will find that both Howard and London have plenty to offer. Reading Kipling's The Jungle Book or Service's The Spell of the Yukon will surely add to your literary journey.

3. Roger Zelazny: Norse Mythology and Beyond

Roger Zelazny, the master of fantasy and science fiction, had a wide list of literary inspirations. He was particularly influenced by Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy and Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote. Zelazny was fascinated by the concept of "immortal" characters, and in his own work, he often explored themes of immortality and time. These philosophical and imaginative works provided the raw material for his storytelling magic.

Zelazny's essay mentions Melmouth the Wanderer as the novel that inspired him, much like how many characters in his stories seemed to live forever. Reading The Divine Comedy can be a profound experience, while Don Quixote is a seminal work that delves into the nature of reality and perception. Both books offer layers of depth that can enrich your understanding of storytelling and the human condition.

4. Rick Riordan: Children's Literature and Beyond

Rick Riordan, a globally adored author, shares his favorite books from his childhood, which have inspired him both as a reader and a writer. His first beloved book was Fletcher and Zenobia, a unique and macabre picture book by Edward Gorey and Victoria Chess. The dark humor and psychedelic style of this book perfectly captured the 1960s, providing a childlike wonder and excitement that Riordan could relate to.

His second favorite, The Greek Gods by Bernard Evslin, introduced him to the rich and complex world of Greek mythology. Evslin's retelling of the myths resonated with Riordan so profoundly that he later used it as a foundation for his own works. The combination of storytelling and illustrations from the 1960s has stood the test of time, showing that certain depictions can be timeless.

However, the book that left the biggest impact on Riordan was The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien. Tolkien's epics of Middle-earth opened the world of fantasy for Riordan, leading him to write his famous series, Percy Jackson the Olympians. Mrs. Pabst, his eighth-grade teacher, was a significant influence in his life, not only for her scholarly insights into Tolkien's works but also for her encouragement to pursue writing as a career. The dedication to his teacher in the final book of the Percy Jackson series is a testament to the lasting influence of these works on his life.

These authors and their favorite books exemplify the enduring power of literature. They inspire, educate, and entertain, leaving indelible marks on the minds of those who read them. By exploring and appreciating these works, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of the literary world.