Littera Scripta Manet

I read a very interesting article on NPR.org about authors and the books that changed their lives. And it got me thinking. I've made my career out of books. I've been a bookseller, an editorial and production intern and am now working full time for a book publisher. Books have become a big part of my life. So what books have changed my life? I listed a few below (besides the obvious). If you've got some of your own, I'd love to hear them too!

1. Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo ~ Not because of it's anti-war message, which is pretty potent in in of itself, but because of how this triggers the power of imagination. "Johnny" is a war veteran who's lost all of his limbs and 4 out of his 5 senses when a hand grenade exploded in front of him. Yet he is kept alive, a prisoner in his own body. I couldn't believe the power of imagination and that a book could transport you into someone else's life.
2. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott ~ Single-handedly gave me an overwhelming appreciation of our past. I have a deep admiration for bygone eras and a simpler way of life. It also made me proud of where I'm from, since the story is based in Massachusetts, my home state.
3. Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy ~ "It's a difficult question for any man to answer... whether to follow his dreams no matter what... or to give in slowly and let life lead him where it will." That's a quote from the movie, not the book, but it sums up the entire novel. Reading this book made me realize that I need to take my life into my own hands and let no one take advantage of me!
4. DK's Guide to Owning a Pupppy (Out of Print) ~ I would read this book for hours and hours, dreaming, wishing and hoping that I would one day own a puppy. That dream came true 13 years ago and this book was my guide to raising my very first pet.
5. Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen ~ Simply because Elizabeth Bennett is the model woman. She knows how to behave in society, but doesn't take anyone's crap and isn't afraid to speak her mind. She's a loving sister, daughter, friend and finally wife. What women who reads this doesn't want to be just like her? I know I did, and still do.