Honestly, my book! We've just finished up the final edits of At Home Anywhere. It's the first time I've read the same book more than four times in 30 days! It's taught me so much about what authors go through and it's changed the way I appreciate the books I've read and will read in the future. I'm thinking of diving into Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay next.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho was the first book - that wasn't a non-fiction or religious text - that moved me, spiritually. It spoke to the part of me that knew there was adventure waiting but wasn't quite sure how to find it.
The Diary of Anne Frank is another. I don't always remember what Anne said, but I remember how I felt reading it. I admired her courage, her rawness about her experiences. Finally, The Conscious Bride by Sheryl Paul. This is a self-help book that was gifted to me when I got engaged. It really helped me stay present and connected to the true purpose of a wedding, of family, and all the relationship dynamics that change when two families come together. It shaped the way I approach the "big" moments in life - the magic we want only happens if we are open to it.
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. The entire book is written through a dog's perspective, and how he relates to his owner.
I'm embarrassed to say this but Charlotte from Charlotte's Web. It's a children's tale, but she's a caring, selfless mother figure. I always loved it when she was present in the storyline. She was so peaceful despite the chaos, and she inspired people. I admire that.
"For what you see and hear depends a good deal on where you are standing: it also depends on what sort of person you are." C. S. Lewis, The Magician's Nephew