It could be the best book you ever read, the book that changed your mindset for the better or the one that gave you a passion for reading. Please tell me (without explicitly spoiling because I will probably read most of them) why it changed your life. Thank you in advance for sharing.
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by Nayema_828
9 Comments
Stranger in a Strange Land by Heinlein actually did change a lot of how I view the world. Looking at human foibles from the perspective of an outsider, from the politics, relationships, and petty jealousies, to the real reason humans laugh. Spectacular.
Also, the Once and Future King. Less because it’s about King Arthur, but more for the humanity of his characters. Good intentions and all that.
Honestly, “Why Does He Do That?” By Lundy. Its written from a man who handled the court-mandated therapy for abusive men in prison.
My friend was escaping an abusive relationship at the time (he just got out of jail recently actually) and it really helped me help her. Abusive people have patterns and I can’t believe how obvious they were until I read this book. As a young woman at the time, I wish every woman I know would read this book before they enter into any relationship. Manipulators are everywhere and they’re really good at what they do. Reading that book even helped me handle coworkers and be a better partner to my spouse.
When I was about 12 I bought “The Many Colored Land” with my allowance purely because I loved the cover. I’d never read any science fiction or fantasy before, plus it was a challenge for my reading level, and it blew my mind. It was not only a great story but it hugely expanded my vocabulary (the author, Julian May, was an encyclopedia writer and it shows) and made me think deeply about philosophical concepts I’d never encountered before. I’ve reread it many times as an adult (and the other books in the same world) and get something new from it each time.
The work of Jacqueline Wilson. She was the first author to dedicate her work by writing about children growing up in poverty, foster care, abuse etc. Don’t think she was as popular in the USA as she was in the UK. She changed my life.
Anne of Green Gables – L M Montgomery
I read it when I was 8 and it is still my favorite book. I have read it at least 15 times, and it’s just a lovely read. Don’t be fooled by the YA/Juvenile fiction thing, the themes are more and more appreciated with each reading. Anne’s journey of healing and learning to trust, and the character development of everyone around her was so comforting to me as a kid and still is as an adult. A great winter read.
the midnight library by matt haig, bunny by mona awad, the opposite of butterfly hunting by evanna lynch and your own kind of girl by clare bowditch. all monumental turning points for me in life that have had a lasting impact
The House with a Clock in Its Walls, by (I think) John Bellairs. Directly led me to start writing. Not a perfect work, but great for a youth into whimsical horror, fantasy or mystery (very Addams Family vibe).
Jane Eyre at 12 years old. It opened my love for reading and language.
The philosophy of walking