books that changed my life...

As a literature student, I often think about my goals in life. Boredom during my studies inspired me to start a reading blog. I’m learning and enjoying the journey, even though my future is uncertain. Reading has been my passion, influencing me deeply.

If you want some life-changing books, you’re in the right spot! Today, I’m sharing five books that have really influenced how I think and live. These aren’t just suggestions; they are personal journeys that I want to share with you.

 I encourage readers to ask for reviews, share their opinions in the comments, and suggest topics for me to cover in my writing.

•  Now, here are five interesting books that changed my life.

1.𝐌𝐀𝐍’𝐒 𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐇 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐄𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 -𝐕𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐎𝐑 𝐄. 𝐅𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐊𝐋 

When I first started reading "Man's Search for Meaning," I had no anticipation for the journey that I was about to take. I cannot stress enough that reading this book is not just reading; it is an experience that stays with you long after you have closed the book. I honestly think every one of you should read this book at least once!

As a survivor of a Concentration camp, Viktor Frankl illustrates how the human spirit can be resilient and persevering. His idea of "the last of the human freedoms" strongly emphasizes our attitude. "Man’s Search for Meaning" looks at how to find meaning and hope in suffering.

Reading this was such a great reminder that even if we cannot control our circumstances, we can always control how we respond to those circumstances. If you have not read this amazing work of art, I highly urge you to read it!

2.𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐒𝐄𝐓-𝐃𝐑.𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐋 𝐒 𝐃𝐖𝐄𝐂𝐊

We label ourselves as "smart" or "dumb," which is an indicator of a fixed mindset. Dr. Dweck talks about in her book and website how a fixed mindset can affect students. Dr. Dweck uses the "growth mindset." According to Dr. Dweck, we can change our intelligence and skills through effort (like building muscle). 

I recommend her book because she changed my perspective on self-help. Applying a growth mindset means you can look at hard classes or

Poor test grades as an opportunity to improve. Accepting failures as part of the learning process will lead to better grades and hopefully a love for learning. 

P.S:)) I know there are many self-help books similar, but this one is too unique to not be mentioned. I used to be bogged down by self-help books, but, I read this one and everything changed for me.

3.𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐎𝐅 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇-𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐁𝐄𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐑

"THE UNDERRATED ONE AND NOT EVERYONE'S CUP OF TEA!"

 This Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Ernest Becker delves into the idea that much of human behaviour is driven by an unconscious fear of death, leading individuals to create beliefs and societies for meaning and coping. While complex and academic, it offers enlightening insights into suffering and historical movements. "The Denial of Death" is ideal for those with intellectual curiosity, especially in philosophy, psychology, or sociology, but it’s not suitable for those seeking light reading or self-help advice. Engaging with it can lead to a transformative understanding of human motivation and anxieties.

𝟒.𝐒𝐈𝐃𝐃𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐇-𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐍 𝐇𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐄

You're not alone if initially this seemed like just another syllabus requirement (HAD IN MY SYLLABUS WHICH I FIRST IGNORED READING AND I REGRET THAT THOUGH), "Siddhartha" which is what I am putting forth to you is a work that resonates with the issues at hand in the student experience, it tells the story of self-discovery, purposeful exploration and playfulness with many life choices. Also, it puts forth that which is truly wise is not found in a single field of study but in the midst of life’s struggles, in our mistakes, and in the many lessons we learn.

The novel is a guide for personal growth which also puts forward that growth and self-realization a lifelong processes. It puts forward the idea of trust in your own experience and in your inner voice which may take you away from what is expected. As it says-"Trust your own experiences and inner voice, even if it means stepping away from traditional paths or expectations."

The book does a great job of presenting the balance between what we learn in the classroom and what we learn in the world, in that it puts forth real-world wisdom. Also, it does a great job of bringing to light patience, acceptance, and that in fact, life is the best teacher. Hermann Hesse’s simple yet powerful language makes this an excellent read for high school and university students, young adults and anyone in an in-between stage of life. Also, it serves as a great intro to Eastern spiritual and philosophical thought and gives out lasting info on the human condition and life journey.

5. ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF SOLITUDE-GABRIEL GARCIA MARQUEZ

 Basically this book tells the story of the Buendía family over many generations in the fictional town of Macondo. It is a great introduction to magical realism.(one of my favourite themes in literary canon*). I loved the way it combines time, history, memory, love, and future fate, showing past influences in the present. The book broadens one's notion of imagination and humanity. 

This book is a must-read for literature students and readers who truly value imaginative epics. 

P.S:))) It takes patience, but if you invest the time, you will gain valuable insights into themes and the complexities of human fate. If you've read "Midnight's Children," you absolutely must give it a try!

🔴 Thanks for reading! I’d love to hear your thoughts on these book recommendations or learn about your favorite books. Let’s chat in the comments below. I always enjoy a good book discussion. This is just the start of my reading journey, and I’m excited to have you with me. Stay tuned for more honest reviews, book conversations, and reading ideas!

🔴 P.S:))) IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN READING MORE PLEASE CHECK MY OTHER BLOGS AND GIVE YOUR VALUABLE INSIGHTS ON THEM AS WELL!! AND KEEP READING...