Ever since I was a young girl, I have always been a fan of books. Granted, I was not as an avid reader as I am today, they have always caught my attention. In my elementary days, every year there would be a hosting of The Scholastic Book Fair. I remember I would push and shove other kids to be first in line. After our librarian would tell us about the books, she would let us wonder off, I went crazy. It felt as if I was stepping into a candy shop for the first time.
It astonished me how an author can make you feel; sadness, happiness, excitement, anxiousness. They can write about a story that reminisces on your youth or perhaps a lost love. Others can write about a world that you have dreamed of while you let your mind wander. Possibly a fantasy world. When you are stuck in a rut, trying to find your path out from the dark clouds, words from authors who have experienced a similar situation, can lead you to the brighter road.
Personally, my favorite thing about the author and book was how it could open my eyes to new views. Along with experiences that can make me grow as a person. No matter what age you are, there does come a time in your life, where you need guidance or advice. Reading stories that again, relate to a tough event in your life, does go a long way.
Over the past few years, I have read amazing books and I have read not so amazing books. Then there are ones that I cherished because they made me view the world differently. Whether it was from politics to romance or space. With that, I wanted to share four books that made a different person and will make you one as well.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The story follows a Shepard boy, Santiago, who is having dreams about this “treasure’. During his journey, Santiago meets strangers (perhaps a leading lady) who teach him a thing or two about “treasure”. This book is great those who are looking to find their destiny in life, their purpose.
The Little Prince by Antonie de Saint-Exupery
A pilot whose plane crashed in the Sahara desert meets a young Prince. Throughout the story, the Little Prince shares with the pilot an adventure he went on. He traveled to six different planets, each meeting a character that would affect him personally. Although it is children’s book, it will make you want to cherish your youth and believing in yourself.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Amir, a young boy who was born and raised in Afghanistan, had many ups and downs in life. Which I am sure a lot of us can relate. It follows his life story, youth to adult. This book will make you cry. This book will make you anger. It will also make you happy. You will experience family secrets, first love and how much friendship means to everyone.
I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
This young girl here is my role model. At just eighteen, Malala has written a book, started a fundraiser and won a Nobel Peace Prize. While reading this book, you will realize as humans, we take a lot of things for granted. Also, how kindness can go a long way.
Zen by Daniel Levin
This book is not a fiction or non fiction book. The title does speak for itself. It is filled with random short stories and quotes that will help with your mind and body. Hopefully finding hope and joy with life itself.
Featured photo credit: Tristan Martin via flickr.com
