My favourite book is "Robinson Crusoe" by Daniel Defoe. D. Defoe (1660—1731) was a great master of realistic detail. The novel "Robinson Crusoe" was written in 1719. The novel is praise to human labour and the triumph of man over nature.
Defoe shows the development of his hero. At the beginning of the story we see an inexperienced youth, a rather frivolous boy, who then becomes a strong-willed man.
Robinson Crusoe's most characteristic trait is his optimism. His guiding principle in life become "never say die" and "in trouble to be troubled is to have your troubles doubled".
He had confidence in himself and in man. He believed it was within the power of man to overcome all difficulties. Crusoe was an enthusiastic worker and always hoped for the best.
Defoe is a writer of the Enlightenment. He teaches people how to live, he tries to teach what's good and what's bad. His novel "Robinson Crusoe" is not only a work of fiction, an account of adventures, a biography and an educational pamphlet.
It is a study of man, a great work showing man in relation to nature and civilization as well as in relation to labour and private property.
My Favourite Book (2)
My favourite book is "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
I first discovered these stories when I was about twelve and I've loved them ever since. They're brilliantly written, full of bizarre crimes and they've got a terrific Victorian atmosphere.
When you read them you really feel like you've been carried back to nineteenth-century London.
All the twentieth century detectives like Miss Marple and Inspector Morse seem really boring compared to Sherlock Holmes.
That's where Conan Doyle, really makes you believe that Holmes is unique — a genius with amazing mental powers.
Normally I only read detective stories once. I mean, why read them again when you know what happens in the end?
With the Sherlock Holmes stories, though, its different.
Each time I re-read them I discover more and more to enjoy.