A good choice could be 'The War of Art' by Steven Pressfield. This book is excellent for those who want to overcome the fictions that keep them from achieving their goals. It delves into the concept of resistance, which is often a fictional construct in our minds that stops us from taking action. By recognizing and combating this resistance, we can move forward in our lives.
Well, first, it should have relatable characters. For example, if it's about someone overcoming self - doubt (a form of fictional barrier), the character's struggle needs to be something readers can see in themselves. Second, it should offer practical advice or strategies. Just like in 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People', which can be seen as a book about overcoming the fictions of inefficiency. Third, it should be engaging, so it can hold the reader's attention long enough to really soak in the message.
If you like light reading, I recommend "Super Rich Boy." The male protagonist is a young master who is unwilling to be abandoned by his family. He has a rich life experience and is constantly pursuing his own future. At the same time, there are many humorous plots. I believe it can bring you some happiness and relaxation. If you like suspense and hot-blooded elements, you can try "I Might Be a Bad King." Although the male lead was an unreliable monarch at the beginning, as the plot developed, he would gradually grow and rise in the world's disputes, becoming a true hero. I hope you like my recommendation. Muah ~
A really good one is 'The Diary of a Young Girl' by Anne Frank. Despite being in hiding during the Holocaust, Anne's diary is filled with hope, dreams, and positive outlooks. It shows that even in the darkest of times, a young girl could find beauty and meaning in life.
Another great one is 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams. It's a humorous and wacky science fiction adventure. It follows the misadventures of Arthur Dent as he travels through the galaxy with his alien friend Ford Prefect, and it's full of unique and creative ideas about the universe.
A lesser - known but interesting book could be some short story collections where octopuses play a role in fictional scenarios. You might have to dig through some indie or small - press publications to find them, but they can offer really creative takes on octopus - related fiction.
I'd suggest 'The Complete Persepolis' as a 'overcoming hardship graphic novel'. The protagonist Marjane has to adapt to the strict religious and social changes in Iran. She also has to deal with the loss of family members and the challenges of growing up in a politically charged environment. Another good one is 'Habibi' by Craig Thompson. It's set in a fictionalized Middle Eastern world and follows the story of two orphans. They face hardships like slavery, poverty, and social exclusion but manage to find hope and love in the midst of it all. 'Daytripper' by Fábio Moon and Gabriel Bá is also worth mentioning. It explores different moments in the life of the main character, many of which involve hardships related to family, career, and mortality.
I would recommend 'The Great Gatsby'. This book explores themes like wealth, love, and the American Dream. The story of Jay Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy Buchanan is both tragic and thought - provoking. The descriptions of the parties and the opulent lifestyle are really captivating.
There's also 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak, which while not strictly about the afterlife, has elements of it. Death is the narrator, and it gives an interesting perspective on life, death, and the in - between. The story is set during World War II and shows how the characters' lives are intertwined with the ever - present specter of death and the possibilities of what lies beyond.
One great book is 'The Bell Jar' by Sylvia Plath. It's a semi - autobiographical novel that delves into the main character's struggle with depression. Through her experiences, we can see how she tries to find a way out of the dark place she's in. Another is 'Prozac Nation' by Elizabeth Wurtzel. It gives a very honest account of living with depression and the journey towards getting better.
I'd recommend 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower'. It's not directly about depression but shows the main character's emotional turmoil which includes elements of depression. His growth throughout the story, with the help of his friends, is inspiring. It gives hope that one can get through tough times.