So, here's the thing

I consider literacy to be one of my most valuable capabilities. For me few greater personal joys in life exist other than reading.
I was staring at my bookshelf yesterday, thinking about the books I have read over the course of the two decades of my life. I asked myself what my favorite five books are, and I mulled over the answer for several minutes, finally coming to a simple conclusion: there is no answer to that question.
It’s hard to pick five books and call them my favorite. Each book is different and the comparison of any two books is like comparing apples and oranges. So, I rephrased the question to ask myself what five books have had the biggest impact on me. What books have made a profound difference in my life – that I can answer.
So, in celebration of books, here are five that have changed my life for the better.
“To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – There is probably nothing I can say about this particular book that hasn’t already been said a million times over.
Everyone knows the story, and it’s always ranked at the top of people’s favorites list. For me, this book holds special meaning. I first read it in ninth grade English class. I had always loved reading, going back all the way to elementary school, but this was the first book I ever read that made me think on a deeper level, interact with the story in a way I never had before.
I asked questions of the author concerning plot, structure, etc. I annotated in the margins of a book for the first time. If nothing else, this book taught me there is much more to literature than just enjoyment.
“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert – This book is about the real-life spiritual journey of the author.
After a messy divorce and subsequent painful relationships, Gilbert finds herself on a journey across Italy, India and Indonesia in pursuit of pleasure, spiritual enlightenment and balance. Yes, it’s the story of a woman’s personal voyage, but everyone, male or female, can relate to the book’s themes of self-discovery and self-recovery, as well as the pursuit of happiness – something we all strive for every day of our lives. Gilbert’s writing packs a punch, as every page is drenched with wit and humor.
“Art & Lies” by Jeanette Winterson – If there exists a literary canon of provocative novels, this book would have to be included in it.
Never before have I read a book so poignant and erotic, so philosophical and humorous. Three passengers are on a train hurdling through the future – Sappho, Handel and Picasso (not the originals). Their interwoven stories create a brilliantly daring novel.
The prose leaps off every page, and the story will have you thinking about art and identity in a way you probably never have.
“Song of Solomon” by Toni Morrison – I often tell people who inquire about my taste in literature that I worship at the altar of Toni Morrison, and I do.
I think she is the most brilliant writer still living, and I only hope I am fortunate enough to meet her in my lifetime. This is the first book I read by Miss Morrison, and it was love at first read. The narrative is phenomenal and the characters soar to life, and soar into your life.
The process of alienation the protagonist goes through is very poignant, and Morrison addresses a problem that has plagued this nation for more than a century.
“A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose” by Eckhart Tolle – This book changed my life. It changed the way I see myself and the rest of the world. It made me aware of each moment of my life and taught me to live in that moment.
Tolle addresses the problem of the ego, and provides a source of enlightenment for those who read the book with an open mind. Because of narrow-mindedness on the part of some people, the book has been typecast as insanity and spiritual heresy, but this couldn’t be any less true. In truth, Tolle doesn’t take sides with any particular religion but rather uses the teachings of many different religions to illustrate what he is saying. But, approaching the book closed mindedly will prove futile.
So, here’s the thing. Celebrate the gift of reading. Even if you never read any of the books I have mentioned (although I think you should, as you are sure to enjoy them), read still! Doing so is one of the best gifts you could give yourself, and the rest of the world. 

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