Barring a few percent, most men would rather watch or play a game than read a book. From “It’s too long” to “I don’t want to,” the reasons for a lack of interest in reading can be anything. Although it is such a pleasurable pastime, one cannot force reading to anyone who does not wish to read. Maybe that’s why books are the last thing that comes to mind when thinking about ideal male gifts.
Buying books for someone who hardly reads is not easy. Not only do you need to find a genre that suits them, but also a book that they really enjoy reading. Here are some book titles suggested for non-reading men who refuse books only because they don’t have the patience:
The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger
About: It’s about the teenage angst and alienation of Holden Caulfield, who shares with readers his account of 24 hours he spent in New York City. Here he realizes that adulthood is nothing but a delusion and hopes to retain the innocence of childhood when he grows up.
For whom: The Catcher in the Rye was first published in 1951 and is considered one of the finest novels of the 20th century. Originally intended for adult readers, the novel has eventually carved its niche among a more suitable audience, the young adult. It was they, and many adults too, who felt they could relate to the torments of puberty that the protagonists went through. Brilliantly crafted by Mr. Salinger, the realistic themes and characters make it a believable story for all.
Catch 22 by Joseph Heller
Taken from: Amazon.com: “Set in Italy during World War II, this is the story of the peerless sim bombardier Yossarian, a hero who is furious because thousands of people he’s never met are trying to kill him.” . However, his real problem is not with the enemy – it is his own army, constantly increasing the number of missions the men must fly to complete their duty in violation of Catch-22″
For whom: Men who are die-hard fans of action, war stories, logic and dark humor would definitely appreciate this book.
Short Stories of Rabindranath Tagore by Rabindranath Tagore
About: Written by Tagore sometime between 1891 and 1917, this book brings together sixteen of his short stories that depict the diverse human emotions as men and women navigate the limitations of contemporary Hindu society.
For whom: One of India’s greatest writers, poets, painters and musicians, Tagore captures the life of India in all his stories, and this is no different. He doesn’t judge his stories and readers are left to draw their own conclusions. This book is certainly for those who are touched by simple beauty, deep understanding and compassion.
Midnight Children by Salman Rushdie
Speaking of which: “At midnight…” on August 15, 1947, an independent India was born and with it Saleem Sinai, the protagonist. He soon realizes that the time of his birth is directly related to the event in post-independent India. He also realizes that he has telepathic powers that connect him to thousands of other children born at midnight on August 15, 1947 and their special powers.
For whom: Bursting with magical realism, this book will find immediate takers in those who have developed a taste for historical fiction. Salman Rushdie’s lively storytelling captivates the reader from beginning to end.
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
About: As extracted from Wikipedia, “Sports columnist Mitch Albom recounts the time he spent with his 78-year-old Brandeis University sociology professor Morrie Schwartz, who was dying of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)… The resulting book describes.” these fourteen Tuesdays on which they meet are supplemented with Schwartz’s lectures and life experiences and interspersed with flashbacks and allusions to contemporary events.
For whom: It is for men of all ages who have forgotten the true meaning of life and how to live it.
If you’re an avid reader yourself, depriving your non-reading loved ones of the immense satisfaction of getting lost in the stories doesn’t make you happy, does it? So next time, also consider books as gifts for men that will keep him glued to the end. The market is full of “page turners,” a term for books that are fast-paced, easy to understand, and active.
