Rummanah Aasi


Welcome to The Reel Shelf, a new weekly feature here at Books in the Spotlight where I imagine what's on my favorite TV/Movie character's book shelves. There are very few television shows that accurately depict the life of an average American teenager. The short-lived but much loved show, My So-Called Life, was ahead of its time in combining wonderful insight, realistic teen issues, and a great cast of characters. It was one of the most talked about show when I was a teen and could really see myself as the main character and narrator Angela Chase.



Sometimes it seems like we're all living in some kind of prison. And the crime is how
much we hate ourselves. It's good to get really dressed up once in while. And admit the truth: that when you really look closely? People are so strange and so complicated that they're actually... beautiful. Possibly even me.

 Angela Chase, played by Claire Danes, is a sophomore at Liberty High School in Three Rivers, Pennsylvania. Like most teens trying to survive high school, Angela is attempting to discover and assert her identity. To do this, she expands her circle of friends which allows her to get out of her own comfort zone and see the real world. Angela has a complex relationship with Jordan Catalano. Though Angela finds herself in precarious and sometimes dangerous situations, she always remains true to her values. I imagine Angela's bookshelf to contain several contemporary, realistic novels featuring a protagonist who are also stumbling through adolescence and trying to make sense of their life.

7 Responses
  1. Lauren M Says:

    The only one I've read out of this list is So Yesterday! (Loved that one, by the way) I haven't seen My So-Called Life, but I've heard great things.


  2. I've read My So-Called Life! This is such an intriguing feature, Rummanah! You put so much thought and time into it - brilliant and fun to read :)


  3. Lauren: I re-watched it a few months ago and I was amazed how realistic the show turned out. Definitely check it out if you get the chance.

    Melissa: Aww, thank you! Yes, it does take a lot time finding the right books but it's fun. I hope you find something you like here!


  4. That list is intensive! I think I added like half of them to my TBR. I love these lists, you always pick out the best books. PAPER TOWNS looks awesome!


  5. OMG! I loved Angela Chase. She was my hero.

    She'd definitely be a contemp girl but I think she might surprise us all once in a while with some nonfiction and gothic lit reading. Awesome booklist.


  6. Nat Says:

    I used to love MSCL. I was obsessed with Jared Leto!


  7. Missie: Me too! I just love those moments of clarity and profound epiphanies she use to have.

    Kelli: I know, right? He's got amazing pair of eyes. I always think of Jordan whenever I see him. :)


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