Last month, I had intention of selecting books for characters of fantastic TV show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Surprisingly, I got lost in a Buffy tornado and did not get a chance to discuss the reading habits of anyone else from the show. Let’s see how many characters I get through this month.
Xander Harris – Xander is not much of a reader, as we learn in the show. However, there are a few references to his love of comics. It would be easy to give Xander a few superhero comics and he would be satisfied. That said, I would stay away from any books featuring Daredevil, seeing what happened to Xander in the final season. I would like to expose Xander to a different kind of book- show him what else is out there. 
I thought one of the interesting ways to find a book for Xander would be to look at some of his past crushes, hobbies, etc. The first book that comes to mind is probably one of the most bizarre books concepts that I’ve run across this year, but is still completely a Xander pick. Grasshopper Jungle by Andrew Smith is the story of two boys who inadvertently bring about six-foot tall praying mantises that may eventually destroy the world. This just seems like a book match made in heaven for Xander. Remember when he developed a crush on his entomology teacher who transformed into a giant praying mantis? What does a guy living on the Hellmouth consider the ultimate horror story? What fuels his nightmares? Vampires and demons are nothing for someone like Xander, but give him giant insects and he’ll be squirming.
Xander longs to be a hero. He had his chance during the first season when he became his Halloween costume and became a soldier. Throughout the show, we see Xander recall his military knowledge and assist in situations. A second choice for Xander’s to-read pile would be Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy. In this book, Danny joins the National Guard in order to help protect his state and country. But when the State Government and the Federal Government decide to turn on each other and a second Civil War threatens America, Danny has to determine what side is the right side. Continue reading What Would They Read?: Buffy the Vampire Slayer continued