-
Keep the lights burning, Abbey
I was homeschooled until i was in 8th grade. I didn't enjoy reading until my mom got me this book when I was around 8 years old. I read it over and over again, every day for weeks and weeks. It was the book that got me reading for fun. -
The Royal Diaries/ Dear America books
When I was around 11-12 years old I started reading the Royal Diaries series and the Dear America books. I loved reading about kids my age growing up in a completely different time period and totally different upbringing. It is was sparked my love for historical fiction, which remains my favorite genre to this day. -
The Giver
I read The Giver when I was around 13 and it sparked my love for dystopian literature, which is also one of my favorite genres. It was the first book that got me thinking about how our own society runs and possibly what sparked my interest in social justice -
The Perks of being a Wallflower
When I was in high school I was quite an angsty teenager. I read this book one summer when I was away at a pre college dance camp, feeling rather lonely, and it became my favorite book. It was the first book that had me falling in love with the character. I felt like I understood him, like I wanted to be his friend and help him. It remained my favorite book for many years and I still look back on it with such fond memories. -
Tina Fey- Bossy Pants
During college I started seeing reading as more of a chore I had to do for homework than something to enjoy. So when I found myself working as a performer on a cruise ship after graduation, with ample down time, I picked up this book to kill some time. This book reminded me why I loved reading. Not only was it witty and funny, but I resonated with so many of her thoughts. It got me back into the mindset of reading being a hobby instead of a chore. -
Brave New World
This book blew my mind when I read it. It is now one of my all time favorite books, and I have seen the world through different eyes since reading it. I have read it every other year since reading it the first time just because I love it so much. -
The Kite Runner
This was another book that reminded me why reading is so amazing. This book transported me and made me feel so strongly for the character. This was the first book that ever made me cry. -
The Handmaid's Tale
I read this book last year when the political climate has been getting so intense. It was one of the first dystopian books I read that scared the hell out of me. A feeling that I haven't really felt from reading a book in a long time. I think it is an important read for anyone -
Harry Wong- the first days of school
I read this book last year when I was going through my first year teaching and it saved me. I didn't know if I would make it through the year but he got me thinking about teaching in a whole new light. I was very grateful for this book. -
The Nightingale
I included this book because It is my favorite book I have read this year. It has made my commute to work a joy because I can listen to this book instead of focus on all of the stress I have ahead of me at work. It reminds me that books really are an escape from reality and what a wonderful gift that can be when reality isn't all that great.
