Comments on: Authors who shaped my persona

By: Laurie Spangler

Laurie Spangler — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 02:59:08 +0000

Several book titles remain in my mind throughout long after I have read them. I think if people read these books, the world would be a better place. The first is A Mind At A Time by Mel Levine. This book is about how each person’s mind and way of learning is unique. If we all had a better understanding of how people learn, we might be a little more patient with one another.
A second book that influenced me is Nickeled and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich. The author goes “undercover” as a low-wage employee in various places in the United States. After reading this book, you will probably tip your waitress better or give a friendly smile to the harried grocery checker/bus driver/single Mom.
A third book I enjoyed, was Come Be My Light – the Private Writings of the Saint of Calcutta by Mother Teresa and Brian Kolodiejchuk. It impressed me with Mother Teresa’s incredible faith when faced with her own crisis of faith.
My final book is the Kabul Beauty School: An American Woman Goes Behind the Veil by Deborah Rodriquez. An American woman starts a beauty school in Afghanistan and the book chronicles the ups and downs of her venture. It provides insight into the Afghani culture and how Afghani women live in a part of the world that is often in turmoil.
If I had the gift of authoring a book, I would hope I could make the world a better place. These books helped me view the world a little differently. I am more patient, understanding. When I feel frustrated or discouraged I think about Mother Teresa’s journey. I am also a better tipper. I hope these books influence other readers like they did me.

By: Dana

Dana — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 18:21:34 +0000

I don’t know if I can honestly say that a book influenced my persona other than the Bible, however there are some that held my imagination for months and months, maybe even years. When I was younger I had a big book of children’s stories, that I thankfully still have, and an Uncle Remus book. I loved to hear my mom read me those stories. Then there was Bridge to Terabithia, Swiss Family Robinson, and Shel Silverstein. All of which were read to me rather than reading them myself. I got more into books around the 7th grade. I skiped over Sweet Valley High and went straight for books to TV stuff. I think it was Flowers in the Attic that got me into reading. My friend and I were in love with Troy from the VC Andrews Heaven series and Sir Percy from The Scarlet Pimpernel. For a while it looked like we’d never find anyone so perfect. Then there was Phantom of the Opera and Les Meserable, that are both plays based off of books, however in this case I’ll have to admit that the plays are better than the books. I could go on and on!

By: Michelle

Michelle — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:50:30 +0000

Definitely Michael Crichton and Orson Scott Card! I discovered them in middle school and the world hasn’t looked the same since!