Books

What’re You Reading: Matthew Murdock from Daredevil

Fangirlish writers adore their fictional characters. We all have our favorites from a variety of television shows especially. So in a fit of genius or insanity because we are all fannishly busy stressing over making sure readers have preview guides, recaps and a multitude of opinions on these television universes; now we’re going to combine our passion for reading with fangirling TV — by figuring out what our favorite characters would be reading and why you should be reading those books. Not only that, Fangirlish created a Goodreads account and we will be opening up the discussion there and taking suggestions for which fictional persons you would like bookishly profiled.

Let me set the stage.

Matt’s been hurt, again. He’s laying there, battered, bruised, and utterly bored out of his mind. He wants to be out on the streets taking down The Punisher but he can’t. He needs to heal. (Those ribs aren’t going to magically come together.) So what are you going to do?

That’s when you spot it, Matt’s bookshelf. Maybe he can read something and distract himself from thoughts of actually getting up. Mind made up, you peruse through his collection and come across some interesting reads that just scream Matthew Murdock. It’s not easy but you narrow it down to five books. Now you just have to decide on one. (That’ll be easy, right?)

Let’s take a look at what would be in Daredevil’s bookshelf.

1. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Daredevil would be a lover of the classics. He wouldn’t be able to resist a tale of tolerance, inequality, and courage in a time not so far away. It would be the kind of book that inspired young and curious Matthew Murdock to follow a path set on helping people. Bet he has the movie tucked away somewhere too.

2. Living Ready Pocket Manual – First Aid: Fundamentals for Survival by James Hubbard

Pretty sure that Matt would have two copies of this book. One would be in his bookshelf and the other would be in a secret compartment somewhere on the Daredevil suit. (Bet it’s on his thigh for easy access.) For all he knows he might end up in another dumpster with only his wits and this book to set him straight.

3. A Civil Action by Jonathan Harr

Courtrooms, young lawyers, and big companies trying to defend their deplorable actions against the innocent public. Dare I say more?

4. The Art of War by Sun Tzu

Conflict, something that Matt deals with everyday out on the streets and homes of Hell’s Kitchen. If he’s to survive to fight another day, then strategic insights from one of the most prestigious books on conflict is essential. He probably keeps a special edition by his bedside to clear his mind when it’s brimming with doubt and confusion.

5. Absolutely Avocados by Gaby Dalkin

“Avocados in Law” didn’t just fizzle out and die. Matt took those words to heart and became enamored with the beautiful green fruit. It’s smooth texture and delicate flavors were the centerpiece of many meals during down time. Burgers, dips, salads.

Agree? Disagree? Think there are other books that Matt would have lying about his office or loft? Join us on Goodreads to discuss that and any other characters you’d like for us to cover next.

Daredevil returns to our screens March 18th on Netflix.