I know not everyone celebrates Christmas, but in many countries, there is a big break coming up, and I thought I would share some good vacation-type reads. So put these on hold at the biblioteca now to prepare for a long period of time for relaxation and good reading.

1. His Dark Materials por Philip Pullman
(The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, The Amber Spyglass)-I read this series once over a break and it is fantastic. Deep and meaningful while still a quick read. The 2nd one is my favorite.

2. Anna Karenina por Leo Tolstoy
This is probably a challenge for a lot of people, but it's one of the most amazing books I have ever read. I tackled this one over a natal break and finished in a little over a week. It's a good book to go for when you have a long stretch of time to devote to it.

3. Inheritance series por Christopher Paolini
(Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr) This is a good chance to catch up before the 4th book comes out. (Anyone know when that is, btw?) People may laugh at this pick, but the books are very easy reads and pretty addicting. You'll get into them quickly which is perfect for the holidays. You want to relax after all!

4. 1984 por George Orwell
If you've been putting it off, now's your chance to read this timeless classic!

5. Watership Down por Richard Adams
I know a book about rabbits on a quest sounds ridiculous but this book is completely wonderful. You'll get through it in no time.

6. Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales
This book looks intimidating, but each of the stories are very short and they are magical. You will amor this. Plus, you've got time to kill ;)

7. Lord of the Rings por J.R.R. Tolkien
Now, I understand that this task is a little overwhelming, but at least try to finish one of these 3 books over break. I promise it's still good even if you spread it out. Tackle one this break, another in the spring and the last one over the summer.

8. The Girl of the Limberlost por Gene Stratton Porter
I completely loved this book when I was 15. It's a beautiful story. It has little to do with vacation, but it's a thick book, though a quick read once you get into it.

9. Birth of Venus por Sarah Dunant
If you like historical fiction, this one was very surprising to me in a good way. I usually don't go straight for the bestsellers, I'm mais of a classics girl, but I'd say this is a good vacation book.

10. The Last Wife of Henry VIII por Carolly Erickson
Another historical fiction. I learned a lot about English history and about Henry VIII and his many wives. The books starts when he's still married to his first wife. I read this book literally from cover to cover without setting it down. A great fast read.

So there you have it. This is not a list of my favorito books (though many do fit into that category) but instead a true list of books I think you will find very enjoyable over vacation. So challenge yourself and read as many as possible or even just one! Let me know what you think, I'd amor to hear comments.