James Patterson's 5 most important books

In the April 30 issue of Newsweek, the prolific James Patterson names his five most important books.

He describes Number One on his list as: "The great American novel, which just happens to be from South America."

Read more about Patterson's list.

Patterson tags two additional titles in other categories:

A Certified Important Book you haven't read:

OK, you got me — I've never read Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret.

The book you care most about having your children read:

Maximum Ride. I want young Jack to know what his dad does at the office, and, hopefully, to be proud.

--Marshal Zeringue