People read for all kinds of different reasons and books always have something to say to the reader, which is one of the best reasons to read. However, when a book can affect your life enough to make you rethink what you thought you knew or make you appreciate more deeply what you already know, that is a good book.
It can be tricky to find a book that isn’t full of shallow characters and plots. So, we decided to do the work for you. Check out this list to see what type of book you should read next.
There is great benefit from being able to learn from other people and books are the perfect place to start. After all, books always have something to say, you just have to be willing to listen.
1. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon.
This book will break your heart and at the same time overflow it with joy. The narrator is a young boy that is brilliant but has trouble fitting in. As the reader, you will sympathize with and admire this boy. The story is very engaging and will remind you about those people that feel the affects of being excluded—who knows, it could even inspire you to do something for people like that!
2. The Giver by Lois Lowry.
The Giver is a book that is written for children, but should be read by every adult. The characters are in a world where pain has been eliminated, but at a very high cost. It is a wonderful story showing that even though we have pain in life, it is worth it if it means we can also have beauty.
3. 1984 by George Orwell.
This novel definitely has a political element that is inescapable. It is wonderfully written warning to society about the dangers of political powers. You will walk away from this book with a more profound appreciation of humanity and freedom. Also, you might walk away more sober once you see the terrors that corrupted governments can impose on people.
4. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
This book can change your life in a very practical way. Dale Carnegie reveals all of the secrets of effective communication—it is very edifying for learning how to deal with other people, especially in a business setting. However, you don’t have to be a business person to appreciate this book because it really can impact the way you interact with people, even if it is your closest friends. Communication is one of the most important things in any relationship, whether it is professional or personal. This book can be your key to unlocking the best way for you to communicate and the best way for you to get the most out of your relationships.
5. Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis.
C.S. Lewis is one of the most profound writers of the last century and there are many of his books which have a great impact. However, Mere Christianity is one of his most famous books because of its brilliance and simplicity in describing all of the facets of Christianity. This book could be very engaging because it could change your perspectives on Christianity, enhance your understanding of what it means to be a Christian, or simply clear up things that have been muddy in the past. No matter the result, you will have enjoyed a very well written book by an amazing author.
6. Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne.
Although this novel is mostly just entertaining, it can be very eye opening. The main character decides to travel around the world because of a bet, and the adventure takes the reader through many countries and many incredible events. After reading this book, you will be inspired to take adventures of your own and maybe even travel the world! You learn how important it is to take advantage of opportunities and persevere despite all odds—and it is just so entertaining to read!
7. Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan.
This is a classic. If you can, read the unabridged version because the writing is beautiful and poetic. The story, however, is definitely the selling point. Pilgrim’s Progress is an allegory that lets the reader walk through the life of the main character and encounter all of the problems head on. This book could definitely change the way you think about things and even the way you approach problems and threats. It is a wonderful story that gets to many root thoughts.
8. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
This is a wonderfully engaging and uplifting story that will restore child-like hope in your dreams and plans. Sometimes the cynicism and pessimism of the world can just get too heavy. Sometimes, you need to be reminded that life has wonderful twists and turns and that there will eventually be a reason for everything. This book is that reminder. It is a beautiful story that will restore your faith in the world and you will enjoy every single chapter.