My Most Influential Books

As writers, people often ask about the books that have influenced us the most throughout our careers. I believe if I could name all the books that have impacted my style and inspired me, I would need all of the computer web pages in the world. However, I've whittled my list down to my top ten most influential books to conveniently fit in this post.

1. Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson

   
   

   

   Calvin and Hobbes together

   I believe I'm never too old for comics and picture books. Calvin and Hobbes was genius and I'm glad I read it throughout my childhood upbringing. The pictures, art, and words of Watterson's books are memorable to me.
   

2. The Old Testament and The New Testament

   
   

   

   
   

   I've read both the Old and New Testaments cover to cover, and believe they're filled with valuable insights for anyone, regardless of religion. I particularly enjoy Old Testament books, which connect to my partial Jewish heritage, thanks to which I enjoyed celebrations like Hanukkah and other traditions growing up.
   

3. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

   
   

   

   
   

4. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

   
   

   

   
   

5. The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd.

   This book, which was recommended by my mother, is an exceptional read about the life of Jesus through the point of view of a potentially fictional female partner. I read it very quickly and saw a little bit of myself in plenty of Kidd's characters.
   

6. Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt
   

7. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
   

8. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

   
   

   

   This novel was dense and a little intense, but worth a try for reading, and it's another biblical one.
   

9. All About Love by bell hooks

   
   

   

   The cover of this book actually doesn't lie - this book is truly entirely about love. I think it's wonderful that there is an entire book dedicated to love, an invaluable pillar of humanity. I think it's also about choosing our people and how to show up for other people in daily life.
   

10. Sula by Toni Morrison

    
    

    

    I read Morrison's works in college and was blown away by the imagery and raw honesty. From this book, I can't remember everything perfectly, but I can remember how it built empathy in me that hadn't existed before, especially for the Black women during the immediate post-slavery era in this country many years ago, and what growing up for them was like. I also could relate to the "coming of age" themes in this book, and how friendships evolve and change, and the spiritual transformation taking place for all of us in life. I hope to read more of her works soon!