Growing up I was never a reader. When I was younger, I remember being pulled out of class in order to have extra reading practice because I was one of the slowest readers in the class. Since then, I just assumed reading wasn’t for me. That was until I registered for a humanities class during my senior year of high school. This class required a summer reading. I always avoided classes like this because I didn’t like reading, but something told me I needed to take this class and do this reading. I am so grateful I did. This class opened my eyes to reading and I haven’t stopped since. Here’s a list of books that I cannot live without and that I will keep on my bookshelf forever.
1. "A Man’s Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl
This book is a story about a man, Viktor E. Frankl, who was a prisoner of the Nazi concentration camps. However, his story is a little bit different than the ones you read in school like the "Diary of Anne Frank" or "The Boy in Striped Pajamas." He was a licensed psychiatrist prior to getting placed into these camps and along with telling his story, he also explains how the human brain worked and changed while trying to survive in these camps. He explains the meaning of life and love, and how people become dehumanized to the point that they just continue to exist.
2. "Ishmael" by Daniel Quinn
This is a story told from the viewpoint of a gorilla and its owner. Sounds weird right? The crazy thing is, this book teaches you about life and human nature. It explains the role of religion in a person's life and goes deep into the idea of givers and takers and how they play their role in humanity. This book helps you understand that you need to be grateful for everything you have in your life.
3. "Why Men Love Bitches" by Sherry Argov
This is a book for all the girls who have had guys walk all over them. I used to be like that too until I read this book. It teaches you when you’re being a little too crazy, but also when and how to stand up for yourself. It’s a guide to help you start and maintain a healthy relationship.
4. "Eleanor and Park" by Rainbow Rowell
This is a simple high school love story. It’s about two high schoolers that are complete opposites, yet they build such a strong connection. It isn’t that typical story where they meet, fall in love, and get married, though. It is a lot more complicated than that.
5. "Go Ask Alice" by Anonymous
This book is based on a real diary of a 15-year-old girl that remains unnamed for privacy reasons. It is her story and path down drug addiction and self-destruction. You read about how evil the real world can be if you start to fall down the wrong path.