Books That Have Altered Your Life

Posted by Lisa Rufle Jul 30, 2008

After reading The Book That Changed My Life, it is clear to me that books have a transformative power beyond anything else. Not only that, but they are accessible to anyone, which essentially puts the power of knowledge into every literate human being who has access to reading materials. Any kind of reading can have the power to shape a person's life, it doesn't necessarily have to be a book. Newspapers, magazines and even catalogues can leave a lasting impression on a reader.

I was so intrigued by the variety of books that were deemed "life-changing". Though the more I considered the selections, the more I was able to see that each reader was able to connect with the right book for them at the right moment in their lives. What an amazing feat!

After being so enthralled by all the essays included in the collection, I did some further research. I wanted to know more about books that writers felt were life altering for them. I stumbled across The National Book Foundation where they have a great list of authors, some included in the book and some not, that gives further insight into the power of reading. I particularly liked Stephen King's choice of The Lord of The Flies by William Golding, very fascinating stuff!

I am curious as to what books have made an impact on everyday, non-celebrities, like you and me. Think back to your childhood, was there a book that you have fond memories of being read? Once you were older and could read on your own, was there a particular book that left a lasting impression on you, good or bad?