1

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Image: Girl with red hat

Set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, The Great Gatsby captures the essence of an era defined by opulence and excess. The story follows Jay Gatsby, a wealthy and enigmatic man known for his lavish parties in West Egg, Long Island. Gatsby's unrelenting love for Daisy Buchanan, a beautiful and charming former debutante, drives the narrative forward.

As secrets unravel, the novel paints a stark picture of the American Dream's corruption , showcasing the moral decay hidden beneath the glitz and glamor of the Jazz Age. Fitzgerald's prose is both lyrical and poignant , making The Great Gatsby a timeless critique of ambition, love, and loss.

2

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Image: Peter Bond

In J.D. Salinger's classic novel, The Catcher in the Rye , readers are introduced to Holden Caulfield, a teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence in 1950s New York City. Expelled from his prestigious boarding school, Holden embarks on a journey through the city, encountering a series of characters who highlight his deep sense of alienation and disillusionment with the adult world.

His candid, often cynical narrative voice offers a raw and honest look at the struggles of growing up. Salinger's portrayal of Holden's inner turmoil and his quest for authenticity amidst the phoniness of society has resonated with readers for decades, making it a perennial bestseller and a touchstone of modern American literature.

3

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Image: Kabiur Rahman Riyad

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a beloved classic that delves into themes of racism and morality through the eyes of young Scout Finch. Set in 1930s Alabama, the story follows Scout, her brother Jem, and their father, Atticus Finch, who is defending a black man, Tom Robinson, falsely accused of raping a white woman.

The novel shines through its memorable characters, especially the wise and principled Atticus and the curious, brave Scout. Lee’s writing is engaging, mixing humor and serious themes to paint a vivid picture of a small Southern town grappling with injustice.

To Kill a Mockingbird is a must-read for its powerful storytelling. It’s a book that challenges you to reflect on your values and the world around you, all while telling a captivating story.

4

Moby Dick by Herman Melville

Image: Claudia Rancourt

Moby Dick is a tale of obsession and adventure on the high seas. The novel chronicles the journey of Ishmael, a sailor aboard the whaling ship Pequod, commanded by the enigmatic and vengeful Captain Ahab. Ahab's single-minded pursuit of the great white whale, Moby Dick, drives the crew into treacherous waters and difficult situations.

Through its richly detailed narrative and profound symbolism, the story explores themes of revenge, humanity, and the sublime power of nature. Melville's masterful storytelling and deep philosophical insights make Moby Dick a cornerstone of American literature and a compelling read for those who seek both adventure and reflection.

5

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

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Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath transports readers to the heart of the Dust Bowl era, painting a vivid portrait of the Joad family's journey from the barren plains of Oklahoma to the promise of a better life in California. Through the trials and tribulations of the Joads, Steinbeck exposes the harsh realities of poverty, displacement, and the exploitation of migrant workers during the Great Depression.

The novel's timeless themes of resilience, solidarity, and the pursuit of dignity resonate with readers across generations. Steinbeck's evocative prose and deeply human characters make The Grapes of Wrath a classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

6

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

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Set during World War II, Joseph Heller's satirical masterpiece introduces us to Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier stationed on the fictional island of Pianosa. Yossarian's attempts to maintain his sanity in the face of bureaucratic absurdity and the arbitrary nature of military logic form the crux of the narrative.

The term "Catch-22" itself becomes a symbol of the absurdity and paradoxes inherent in the military system, where airmen are trapped in a no-win situation. Heller's dark humor and biting wit make Catch-22 a captivating and thought-provoking read, offering insights into the absurdities of war and the human condition. With its unconventional structure and memorable characters, this novel has rightfully earned its place as a classic American bestseller.

7

The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner

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William Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury delves into the tragic decline of the Compson family, Southern aristocrats grappling with personal and social disintegration. Set in Mississippi, the novel's innovative structure and stream-of-consciousness technique vividly capture the inner turmoil of its characters.

Each of the four sections offers a unique perspective, primarily through the eyes of the Compson siblings: Benjy, Quentin, and Jason. Their stories weave a complex tapestry of time, memory, and loss, reflecting broader themes of identity and change in the American South. Faulkner's masterful storytelling makes The Sound and the Fury a poignant exploration of family, pride, and the inexorable passage of time.

8

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

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Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a seminal work in American literature, offering a vivid depiction of life along the Mississippi River in the mid-19th century. The novel follows the journey of Huckleberry Finn, a young boy who fakes his own death to escape his abusive father; and Jim, a runaway slave seeking freedom. Together, they embark on a raft adventure, encountering a series of colorful characters and challenging societal norms along the way. Through Huck's eyes, Twain addresses themes of race, identity, and moral growth with a blend of humor and biting social commentary.

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn remains a powerful exploration of freedom and friendship, celebrated for its authentic vernacular and enduring impact.

9

Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Image: Brandi Redd

Lolita is a provocative and masterfully written novel that describes the complexities of obsession and desire. The story is narrated by Humbert Humbert, a literature professor with a disturbing infatuation for the twelve-year-old Dolores Haze, who he nicknames Lolita.

Through Humbert's eloquent yet unreliable narration, Nabokov (a Russian expatriate who became an American citizen in 1945) explores themes of manipulation, guilt, and the dark side of human nature. The novel's controversial subject matter is handled with linguistic brilliance, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Despite its challenging themes, Lolita remains a significant work for its literary artistry and its unflinching look at the intricacies of forbidden love.

10

Beloved by Tony Morrison

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Beloved is a masterpiece that beautifully intertwines the horrors of slavery with the power of love and memory. The novel, set after the American Civil War, follows Sethe, an escaped slave, as she grapples with the haunting presence of her past.

Morrison's lyrical prose and profound storytelling bring to life the emotional and psychological scars of slavery, making the reader feel deeply connected to the characters. The ghost of Sethe's daughter, Beloved, serves as a powerful symbol of unresolved trauma and the enduring need for reconciliation.

While the themes are heavy, Morrison's compassionate and poetic approach offers a sense of hope and resilience. Beloved is a poignant reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of confronting our history with honesty and empathy. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates deeply moving and thought-provoking literature.

1

The Golden Globe: Lighter than it looks

Image: MUILLU

Despite its prestigious reputation, the Golden Globe is one of the lightest major awards, it weighs just 7.8 pounds. That’s about the same as a small bag of sugar. Not exactly a workout for the winners, right?

While it may not be as heavy as an Oscar or a SAG Award, it’s still one of the most recognizable trophies in Hollywood.

2

A golden glow-up in 2009

Image: Kier in Sight Archives

The Golden Globe has been around since 1944, but in 2009, the award got a makeover . Its base was updated and they reinforced the top for a more durable design.

The refresh made sure this little trophy could withstand the excitement (and maybe the occasional after-party mishap). The new design kept its classic golden charm while making it sturdier for future winners.

3

Golden Globe: What’s it made of?

Image: Zlaťáky.cz

Now, let’s talk materials: Did you think the Golden Globe is all gold? Not quite! Up to 2019, the trophy was coated in 24-carat gold , sitting on an exotic marble base. However, the new design is made of zinc, brass, and bronze. Goodbye, marble!

That mix of materials makes it both elegant and solid, though it’s still one of the lighter awards out there.

4

The SAG Award: Hollywood’s heaviest trophy

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If you’ve ever bowled a strike, you’ve lifted something as heavy as a SAG Award. This trophy called "The Actor" is the bulkiest of the bunch, with a hefty 12 pounds .

Contrary to Golden Globe winners, SAG Award winners need a little arm strength to hoist it up for their acceptance speeches. But hey, considering how much actors work out for movie roles, a little extra weight shouldn’t be a problem!

5

A trophy with a military past

Image: Scott Webb

The SAG Award isn’t just heavy, it’s made of solid bronze originally developed for the US Navy.

The same material used in World War II for ship propellers and shell casings is now used to honor Hollywood’s finest, how about that?

6

The SAG Award: The baby of the group

Image: Tim Wildsmith

Compared to other long-standing awards, The Actor is still the new kid on the awards block. The SAG Awards are only 30 years old , they are the youngest of the major Hollywood trophies.

However, they’ve quickly become one of the most respected honors in the industry. They acknowledge and reward actors and crews from TV shows and they are highly valued among artists.

7

The Grammy’s original name: The Eddie?

Image: Clem Onojeghuo

The Grammy Award almost had a very different name. Originally, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences considered calling it "The Eddie," after Thomas Edison, the inventor of the phonograph.

That’s clever, but eventually, they settled on "Grammy," inspired by the gramophone, an early record player.

8

Handcrafted with care in Colorado

Image: Randy Fath

Unlike mass-produced trophies, each Grammy is handmade by John Billings and his small team in Ridgeway, Colorado.

It takes 15 hours to craft just one , making each award a true work of art. With only a few people in charge of making them, and only a few people in the world who can win it, there’s a special touch to every trophy.

9

Why the Grammys use fake trophies on stage

Image: Markus Spiske

Ever noticed how winners don’t immediately have their names on their Grammy Awards? That’s because they’re handed blank fake trophies during the ceremony!

After the show, Billings’ wife, Robin Meiklejohn, carefully engraves the real nameplates . That way, winners get their correctly labeled awards without any last-minute surprises. We bet you’ll be double-checking next time you watch it!

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Oscar nameplates: Everyone gets one, just in case

Image: Serge Le Strat

Unlike the Grammy Awards, where nameplates are engraved after the winners are announced, the Academy Awards prepare nameplates for every nominee ahead of time. That means each nominee’s name is already printed and waiting backstage, ready to be attached. The losers’ nameplates? Well, let’s just say they don’t make it onto the trophies

11

The Oscar: More gold than any other award

Image: Samuel Ramos

Hollywood’s most coveted trophy isn’t just tall, it’s loaded with gold . The Academy Award has more gold than any other major trophy. So, to keep it shiny, the polishing work will require a little time!

It takes an hour of careful work to make sure each Oscar gleams on awards night. Because let’s face it, under those bright Hollywood lights, who wants a dull statue?

12

What’s with the Oscar’s base?

Image: Carol Highsmith's America

Have you ever wondered why the Oscar statue has a unique look? The base is designed as a five-section film reel , representing the Academy’s five core branches: actors, writers, directors, producers, and technicians.

It’s a nod to the many different talents that make a great film possible. A meaningful detail on Hollywood’s biggest prize, don’t you think?

13

Why you can’t sell an Oscar for more than $1

Image: Ilya Chunin

Think an Oscar could get one a fortune? Think again! Since 1950, every Oscar winner must agree to offer the trophy back to the Academy for just $1 before selling it.

This rule prevents an underground market for Hollywood’s highest honor, naturally. So if you’re dreaming of buying one, you might need to win it the old-fashioned way: By making a great movie!

14

Why is it called "Oscar"?

Image: Mirko Fabian

The name "Oscar" has a fun origin story. Legend has it that Margaret Herrick, a former Academy librarian, thought the statue looked like her Uncle Oscar , and the name just stuck! Maybe that’s not the real story, but it’s certainly better than calling it "The Academy Award of Merit."

1

Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day

Image: Adam Sherez

Let’s kick off this list with a day that nobody ever imagined would be a thing, but here we are nonetheless! Have you ever heard of cows taking to the skies? Well, in 1930, that became true. A cow named Elm Farm Ollie became the first to fly in an airplane and be milked while airborne! This curious day, observed on February 18th, honors Ollie’s mile-high milking session.

You might be wondering why they did this in the first place. It was actually a scientific experiment to test the cow’s ability to produce milk during flight. And it was great publicity for the aircraft they used to do it. A classic win-win, and a quirky holiday on the side!

2

Namesake Day

Image: Jamie Street

Do you know that feeling when you walk up to a certain group for the first time and, among the introductions, you discover someone shares your name? You may not have anything else in common with that person, but the invisible string is there and that’s thanks to having the same name.

In our country, there’s even a day dedicated to celebrating our namesakes . That is every first Saturday in March, though the reason or origin behind this day remains unclear. However, it is a perfect opportunity to celebrate our shared identities.

3

Sock Monkey Day

Image: Denisse Leon

This list is getting crazier and crazier and don’t say you weren’t warned! But isn’t it fun to learn that there is a National Sock Monkey Day in our country? This holiday celebrates one of America’s quirkiest homemade toys: the sock monkey!

Traditionally made from Rockford Red Heel socks, these little guys have been around since the 1890s, although some also say that they were the result of the Great Depression.

Regardless, when can you celebrate this charming tradition? March 7th is the official day to honor this cheerful craft. It’s a day for making, gifting, or simply hugging a sock monkey in appreciation. With a little patience and a pair of old socks, you might even make one yourself! Embrace your inner child and get crafty on Sock Monkey Day!

4

National Senior Citizens Day

Image: Clay Banks

This one is not crazy at all! If anything, this one should be a must-celebrate for everyone! August 21st is all about recognizing the wisdom and experience that come with age. Established by President Reagan in 1988, National Senior Citizens Day encourages respect and appreciation for older generations.

Now, what motivated this holiday? As medical technology improved over time, life expectancy increased dramatically. While it was common to live for 30 years in the Late Middle Ages, by the 20th century, people were reaching 50 or even 60 years. That progress alone was reason enough to celebrate—and thus, this special day was born!

5

National Fried Chicken Day

Image: Tyson

If we gave you thirty seconds to name the most American things you can think of, how long would it take for fried chicken to make your list? It would probably be the second or third item on your list, right? Well, now you can see why fried chicken has a national day too!

July 6th is National Fried Chicken Day, a day to revel in one of America’s tastiest comfort foods! From crispy Southern-style to spicy Nashville hot, fried chicken has a place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. The origins of fried chicken are a blend of Scottish and West African cooking traditions, but today it’s an American staple.

Not that we need much of a reason to have a nice bucket of fried chicken, but isn’t it extra special to indulge on its very own day?

6

Put on Your Own Shoes Day

Image: Nathan Dumlao

Don’t we all do that every single day of our lives? So, what makes this a special holiday? Put on Your Own Shoes Day on December 6th may seem simple, but when you read into it, you’ll find it’s a subtle nod to independence.

The truth is information regarding the origins of this day is not abundant, but we can confidently say that it’s more of a symbolic celebration. It’s a day to help our little ones learn how to tie their shoes, or maybe take their first steps. It’s also a metaphor that, adults as we are, we have made it this far, after all, independence comes in many forms, even lacing up your shoes! So, walk proudly on this quirky holiday and celebrate your strides toward independence!

7

National Ghost Hunting Day

Image: Erik Müller

No, this is not the same as Halloween, of course. But, if you may, it’s kind of a warm-up for the spooky season, since this one takes place on the last Saturday in September, exactly a month before Halloween, making it the perfect prelude to all things eerie.

For those who enjoy a good scare , National Ghost Hunting Day was created in 2016 and is perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the paranormal. Groups often venture to "haunted" spots armed with flashlights, cameras, and a lot of curiosity. It’s also a chance to explore local legends and folklore about ghosts and spirits. Even if you stay home, you can participate by watching a ghost-hunting show. Get your flashlight ready and have a ghoulishly good time!

8

National Nothing Day

Image: Edwin Splisser

What? That’s right, this one is indeed a National Day and it has been ever since 1973 when Harold Coffin, an American newspaper columnist suggested that there were too many useless commemorative days . This is getting meta, don’t you think?

Anyway, National Nothing Day is celebrated every January 16th, and it is, quite literally, a day to do absolutely nothing! It was originally conceived as a way to avoid celebrations, this day offers a "holiday from holidays." There are no obligations, no parades, and no need to mark the occasion in any way. In short, this day is a license to relax. You may be wondering what should you do to celebrate and the answer is right there: Nothing!

9

National Spaghetti Day

Image: Jeswin Thomas

Spaghetti is not exclusive to America, it’s a dish gifted to the world by the Italians. But America, with its classic intense feelings about the things that make it great, felt the need to create a day specifically designed to have a delicious bowl of Spaghetti . And honestly? We love it!

January 4th is National Spaghetti Day, a pasta dream come true! The best part is that there are as many variations and toppings as there are people who enjoy it. Whether you love it with marinara, meatballs, or pesto, there’s a recipe for everyone.

Many celebrate by whipping up a pasta dish or visiting their favorite Italian restaurant. Whatever you choose, twirl some spaghetti and toast to this delicious day!

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National If Pets Had Thumbs Day

Image: Jamie Street

Imagine if your cat could open the fridge or your dog could hitchhike! If only, right?

March 3rd is National If Pets Had Thumbs Day in our country, a humorous look at what life would be like if pets had opposable thumbs.

The day makes us all wonder about the possibilities, and maybe even the mischief if we know our furry friends, of a more skillful pet . What would be the first thing you’d do? Some pet owners share funny stories or create scenarios imagining what their pets might do with that extra dexterity.

This holiday is all about celebrating the quirks and charm of our pets. Get ready to laugh, because a thumbs-up from your pet might be closer than ever!