Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

I picked up this book when it was still relatively unknown. I fell in love with it from the beginning. Poor Harry was mistreated by his extended family and I sympathized with him. Then he found out he was a wizard and I was so happy for him. The entire book is a roller coaster of action and adventure. It made me feel like no matter what troubles come your way, good times are just around the corner. Rowling's strong point is her characters. They are realistic and fantastic, and always entertain. They have a depth and life that form an impression on your mind and do not fade. The magical world is beautiful and dangerous. This book is very popular now and even made into a somewhat decent movie. In mainstream American culture, you can't live without knowing about it. Still, I believe this book has the strength and durability to exist through the decades and into the future. If you haven't read it, I would recommend it for you in an instant.