1. Papillon : Henri Charrière
You have to read this book! It’s about a real life prison break carried out by Henri himself. The author may have embellished but for pure entertainment there’s nothing even close! Don’t watch the film adaptation of this novel as it doesn’t do the book justice.
2. Shantaram : Gregory David Roberts
Apparently this is a true story. However, this stretches the willing disbelief some what. Even if this was a complete work of fiction, it’s still a terrific book. It’s about a guy that goes to India to start a new life and the adventures he gets into.
3. Frank Skinner : Frank Skinner
Frank Skinner is a legend! I’m generally not a fan of auto biographies, but this one was amazing. This book is full of the mans comedy genius and definitely the funniest book I’ve ever read. Check out Frank’s podcasts for an idea of the humour in this book.
4. Blind Faith : Ben Elton
Ben Elton has a very satirical look at the future in this book. It’s very dark and depressing but at the same time hilarious. The ending left a real impact on me.
5. Hound of the Baskervilles : Arthur Conan Doyle
I really should read more Sherlock Holmes books. This one was absolutely brilliant. I was a bit shocked at how smug Holmes came across in this book. Nevertheless his charm and mystery solving ways picked him up in my opinion.
6. Divinci Code : Dan Brown
This entry is a bit cliche but I don’t care. I loved this book! The way Dan Brown entwined real life iconic imagery into the plot was fantastic. The story was fantastic and this was a genuine page turner. When you start forcing people around you to read a book you know it’s good.
7. Getting Things Done : David Allen
This is a self help book that actually works…well for about 6 months anyhow. To be fair it does suggest re-reading it after that time frame. It’s an essential read if you want to make the most of your time and add to your productivity.
8. Dracula : Bram Stoker
I grew up on Hammer Horror. The eroticism of Dracula always appealed to me. I liked the idea of hypnotising buxom virgins into submission. The book is so much more chilling than any film adaptation. The Count is a perfect villain!
9. Angels and demons : Dan Brown
The second Dan Brown in my top 10. Am I ashamed? No, not really. Another thrilling and intense adventure. The pace of the book is incredible and it builds nicely to a great crescendo.
10. Hannibal : Thomas Harris
I read this after I had seen the film. Everything seemed to be running accordingly until the end. Wham! A complete twist that left me shocked and amazed. I won’t give away the end but if you’ve seen the film than maybe just read the last chapter in the book. The whole trilogy of these books were really good but this one stood out for the controversial twist.