Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(8) Snow Line

We're going to come right out and say it: Jorge Luis Borges was a genius. Keeping up with his lightning-quick brain isn't always the easiest thing in the world, but the payoff is incredible. Borges' way with words is a constant delight, and when we sit and ponder some of his ideas, he blows our puny little minds.

Give Borges a shot (we'll help you through the tougher parts) and don't worry if you don't understand everything. This is the kind of story that will stick with you for years to come.