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Genre Index

Suspense/Mystery/Sci-Fi

Alfred Hitchcock and The Three Investigators in The Mystery of the Stuttering Parrot
(Trio Detektif: Misteri Nuri Gagap)
Robert Arthur
Mystery; Teenage/Children

Ah, that's nostalgic. =) My childhood readings (during and after 'The Enid Blyton Phase').
More than one authors wrote the over 40 titles of the series, started back in 1964 (find more info here) which tells the adventures of three teenage detectives: Jupe (the brain), Pete (the comical-sporty) and Bob (the researcher).
To me the appeal is the types of mysteries they solve-- strange, seemingly mystical circumstances, as compared to other teenage suspense series which portray more actions than wit. Sadly, in the newer titles after the death of Alfred Hitchcock, the mysteries were not so captivating anymore, in my opinion.
This title is the second in the series, my favourite of the lot.

Rage of Angels (Malaikat Keadilan)
Sidney Sheldon
Mystery; Suspense

My first Sidney Sheldon experience, and a very memorable one. =)
The author is famous for his great twists. The emotional aspect is also very well covered, for my taste.
Other recommended titles include "If Tomorrow Comes (Bila Esok Tiba)" and "Bloodline (Garis Darah)".
I read his earlier novels in Indonesian, hence the translated titles.

The Client
John Grisham
Law; Criminal Suspense

Hard to pick a favourite with this one; I like most of his novels. This one is particularly touching, perhaps because the client in the story is still a young boy.

The Hollow (Rumah Gema)
Agatha Christie
Mystery; Murder Suspense

Again, hard to pick a favourite among the numerous titles she has written.
I particularly like this one because one, it features Hercule Poirot, my favourite among the detective figures she created; two, the main female character is the type of heroine I adore (meaning a tough, cool lady); and three, the emotional and psychological aspects are intense.

Curtain: Poirot's Last Case
Agatha Christie
Mystery; Murder Suspense

The definitely different last blow. The psychology is almost eerie. There's of course a certain wistfulness, this being the last adventure of the great detective.

Dune; Dune Messiah; Children of Dune
Frank Herbert
Science Fiction

I find this series very philosophical (that's why I like it =D). It is also quite tragic, so be warned.
There are two more books in the series, which I haven't read. In any case, each book can be read separately. I think the first book is the best so far.

The DaVinci Code
Dan Brown
Mystery; Suspense

Ah yes, the famous controversial book which lives up to its reputation. The mystery is captivating, the suspense intense, and the descriptions enriching.

Drama/Romance/Classic

The Little Prince
Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Philosophical; Children

Get the coloured illustrated edition if you can; it is very well worth it. A story for children, simple in languages and clear in moral message, and touching for all ages. Reminds us what is truly precious in life. I read the English translation by T.V.F. Cuffee -- never seen the original French edition.

Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen
Romance; Classic

Read this multiple times, and I'm still very much charmed by it each time. Aside of the intricate, sometimes amusing romance between the prideful gentleman and prejudiced lady, there is also heartwarming sisterly love between the abovementioned lady and her sister.
Obviously it is again the cool heroine who draws me in. =D If you're like me in this aspect, then Jane Austen is an author you'd probably like. The writing style may need some getting used to, but is relatively easy to understand.

A Woman of Substance; Hold The Dream; To Be The Best (Trilogy)
Barbara Taylor Bradford
Drama; Romance

A very long drama (each book is very thick) spanning three generations. Back in those days I did have the patience to follow through. =D The story revolves around a strong-willed woman, once fallen, and later strived her way up to success.

Gema Sebuah Hati; Setangkai Edelweiss (Duology)
Marga T.
Romance [Indonesian]

A more poetical novel among the many titles she has written, which is the reason I particularly like it. The first novel has a less-modern atmosphere to it, telling of a romance blooming in the revolutionary period in Indonesia. The second novel tells of the conclusion, many years later. The National Library has these titles, as well as other Marga T.'s works.

Humor/Satirical

Si Parasit Lajang
Ayu Utami
Essay Collection; Satirical Humor [Indonesian]

Liberal, out-spoken, to-the-point humor that touches on the reality of life in Indonesia.

Olga (Series)
Hilman
Humor; Teenage [Indonesian]

Perhaps more well-known for his other teenage series, "Lupus". I slightly prefer Olga (maybe because it's about a girl, while Lupus is about a boy =D). Definitely hilarious.

Religion/Philosophy

I Wonder Why
Ven. Thubten Chodron
Religion: Buddhism

A book of questions and answers, written simply and easy to understand, that I found answered most of my questions about life and drew me to Buddhism. Printed for free distribution and not for sale. In Singapore, can be found in front of The Awareness Place in Bras Basah Complex, if they still have it.

Opening the Door of Your Heart
Ajahn Brahm
Religion: Buddhism

A collection of stories Ajahn Brahmavamso used in his talks.