Carry On

The books on this list take themselves quite seriously, trying to reach the success of Harry Potter or other greats. Sometimes, you’re fed up with the common themes that run through them, and that’s where Carry On comes in. The book describes itself as a ‘Chosen One’ story, but that’s just code for a Potter parody. Simon Snow is the Neville Longbottom of Rainbow Rowell’s world, and he just so happens to be the chosen one. He stumbles through his education with his vampire roommate Baz, barely able to cast a spell. Despite the hilarious parallels, Rowell takes her character’s seriously, and it shows. The duo is equal parts useless and likable, and at this point it’s worth noting something. This isn’t your average YA love story. This time, single-sex relationships shine, and they get significant screen time. For some, that will be turn-off. For others, it will be a refreshing change, and a highly entertaining one at that.