As I am in the purging stage of preparing to leave for the Peace Corps, I’m confronted with the task of what to do with my books. As an avid reader, the thought of finding new homes for my precious books is a daunting task as each one carries a special memory. It has made me think about books that have had an impact on my life, so here is my list in no particular order with a brief explanation about how they affected me.
Bridge To Terabithia by Katherine Paterson: This book helped me understand that people can be friends regardless of gender or circumstances and that tragedy affects us all.
A New Earth by Ekhart Tolle: The focus of this book is on creating happiness for yourself that is not about material possessions. It’s also about understanding who you are and not being identified as what you do.
Oh the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss: It’s a big world out there with lots of things to see and experience – so we need to get a move on it and enjoy every moment.
Follow the River by James Alexander Thom: Based on true events, this book (while disturbing and very brutal) is about survival.
I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai: A 16-year-old girl fights for girl’s education and stands up against the Taliban – she is a true leader who is brave, wise and inspiring.
Total Health Makeover by Marilu Henner: This book started me on my vegetarian path
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer: What causes/inspires a young person with an affluent background to chuck it all and disappear Into the Wild? Based on true events, this book discusses the idea of not fitting in and needing to find yourself, without material possessions.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini: The first mid-east book I read, this book to me was really about cause and effect – how our actions or inactions affect the lives of others.
Strength in What Remains by Tracy Kidder: Very powerful story about dreams, survival and the impact that small things can have on someone’s life
The Handmaid’s Tail by Margaret Atwood: A scary view of what life would look like in a totalitarian Christian theocracy where women’s rights are completely removed.
Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon: Time travel via standing stones and Scotland. Need I say more?
What books have impacted you?
alicrain 