Books That Changed My World

Inspired by Krissy, I’ve decided to compile a list of books that have changed my world. I don’t read life-changing books at a regular rate by any means; my book of choice is usually one in the chick lit category. But that’s not to say that I haven’t come across a life-changing book or two (or that chick lits aren’t capable of falling in that category!).

• “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
  I can’t put into words just how monumental an impact this book hand on me. It’s wonderfully written, with some of the most vivid characters I’ve read. The premise is very unique (have you ever read a book narrated by Death?) and Zusak is a gifted storyteller.
• “Atonement” by Ian McEwan
  I’m a sucker for romantic novels and the love story in “Atonement” just blows the rest out of the park. A sweeping love story set at the dawn of World War II, it explores how one girl’s serious mistake has irreversible implications for the lives of those around her. The balance of all the characters and intertwining plotlines is remarkably well done; it’s just a really amazing book.
• “Someone Like You” by Sarah Dessen
  This is not the first Dessen book I read, but it will always remain my favorite. The strength of the bond between Halley and Scarlett has always been a benchmark for me when it comes to the strength of my own friendships. It’s such a pivotal story of growing up, becoming your own person and falling in love for the first time and all the trials and tribulations that come with it.
• “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
  A standard required reading for all juniors in high school in the US, this is the best required reading I was ever assigned. The characters are so distinctly unique and I love how they embody the characteristics of the roaring 20′s.
• “The Golden Compass” by Philip Pullman
  I’ve read the entire “His Dark Materials” series and “The Golden Compass” is my favorite (with “The Subtle Knife” a very close second). I love how the story completely takes you into this world filled with daemons and there’s always a sense of the world being a much bigger and scarier place than we realize, with so much that is unknown. It’s another book that stays with you, which I think is the best quality a book can have.

Cross-posted from breakthesky.net. Please leave any comments there.