I love books.
I know a lot of people say that, but I love them in a way that I’m convinced most “normal” people don’t really understand. When I finish a really good book, I just want everyone around me to shut up. I want to sit in solitude and let the last remnants of the story settle around me. I want time to stand still so I can file away all the emotions, impressions and words into that expansive corner of my mind that helps define who I am. I take a good book with me everywhere I go, even when I’ve finished reading it and I’ve tucked it back on the shelf.
I only keep a book if, after a few months, I can remember what the story was about and how the book made me feel. I only keep the book if I intend to read it again. If I intend to read it again, chances are it made a significant impression on me the first time around. Or the second, or third.
Chances are, it changed my life. Even if it was in a small, seemingly inconsequential way. Maybe it made me smile (anything by Emily Giffin). Maybe it made me cry (Still Alice by Lisa Genova). Maybe it made me think (Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay). Maybe it made me incredibly envious of the writer’s talent (The Life of Pi by Yann Martel) Maybe I literally could not stop reading it, even while driving (the Twilight series, I confess). Maybe it changed the way I think about people (anything by Jodi Picoult). Maybe it got me talking to myself and convinced me to change my life (Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert – I’ve said it to a few people and most look at me in disbelief, but this book literally changed my life).
As part of My Summer Essentials List, I’m on the look-out for a few good books to round out my summer reading list, so if you’ve got any suggestions, I’m all ears! I’m not prejudiced – I’ll read anything from summer romance fluff, to historical novels, to contemporary literature, to vampire stories, to biographies. I want to know what the best book is that you’ve read (ever or just recently). What book has changed your life?
Thanks for your suggestions and recommendations!