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by Louis Sachar (1998)

2025 reads, 18/25:

2025 reads, 18/25:

“Rattlesnakes would be a lot more dangerous if they didn't have the rattle.”

This is one of those childhood books that I never read but had always heard of (and even saw the movie at a very young age). Thanks to a coworker for letting me borrow it! Although this is a young adult novel, Holes is a great read with super short chapters, making it easy to fit a couple in every night and slowly chip away at it.

Overall, I didn't realize how great a children's story this was. Not just a compelling plot (no, it's not just about digging holes), but the writing touches themes of classism, racism, and anyone who just has a tough time in general. Even though I missed the window when I was younger, I think every child should read this.

“When you spend your whole life living in a hole, the only way you can go is up.”