This novel truly solidified my favorite genre, that being speculative fiction. The strength of the characters and the intrigue of the plot blew my mind when I read it for the first time, and the search through internet forums for answers to the secrets of Westeros have provided, and still provide, so much joy to my life.

My first foray into adult novels was a memorable one. I remember reading this in elementary school (when I was probably far too young to do so) and remember having a very positive interaction with the school principal about my reading level. He never judged the content of the book, merely told me that it was great to broaden horizons by reading tales that might challenge me. One in a long line of positive experiences with reading growing up.

This series is my favorite from my childhood. I remember reading one of these books a day in between assignments in school, and then restarting the series from book one thirteen days later once I had finished them all. Enjoyable even as an adult, the character of Lemony Snicket is very strong, though he is merely the narrator of this tale. Finding secrets about him and the greater world of the Baudelaire children was a peak experience as a kid.

Terry Pratchett and the Discworld novels came to me at a time when I thought I didn't like reading and reinvigorated the love I had for books since childhood. Where high school had killed my desire to read by forcing me through novels whether I liked them or not, Pratchett reminded me that reading is supposed to be enjoyable, and since reading Discworld, I have not stopped exploring new worlds through the pages.

The droll British humor, the galactic scale, and the relatable and thoroughly likeable characters make this book a wonderful journey that is entertaining to experience again and again. This is my single favorite book of all time, one that I revisit frequently.