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5 Books That Changed My Life

How can a bookworm possibly choose 5 books that changed her life? Answer: She cannot. The evidence is this blogpost, as the person who initially asked me this question received a slightly different list. But I cannot help it! I just love books so much! 

Nevertheless, here is my current list, along with a brief description of why I chose these books.

Persuasion by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is undoubtedly Austen's most famous novel, but I have found that Persuasion is the most beautiful love story she wrote. The story of Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth is one of patience and courage, and it is the story that taught me what love is beyond initial attraction and romance. 

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula Le Guin

Reading Le Guin is an eyeopening experience, because she uses the genre of science fiction to challenge societal norms and open a discussion on gender in a way only she could. This particular book asks the question, how would society work if the people in it did not have a fixed gender? If they were in fact, without gender except for the purpose of procreation? This book is impressive not only because of its innovative subject matter, but because it was written in 1969! I am not ashamed to declare that Le Guin is one of my heroines. 

Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall

I first heard about this book after watching Mikki Kendall's interview on the Daily Show with Trevor Noah. It was his enthusiasm for the book that made me buy it, but it was her clear, concise writing ability and general wisdom that kept me hooked. Not only was the book informative, but it also brought me to tears several times. You cannot see from the angle of the photo I shared here, but I have about 20 stickies marking my favourite parts of the book. I consider this book essential reading for everyone. 

Dub by Alexis Pauline Gumbs

I have not even finished this book yet, but 20 pages in and I knew her words would stick with me forever. I will write a full review soon!

The Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien

My first love, the book that introduced me to fantasy fiction and created a passion that has lasted to this day and inspired my Master's research. Tolkien was an amazing person, I will defend that to my dying day, but the conclusion to this trilogy is important to me for many reasons; not only is it a beautiful ending to an amazing journey, but this book also has the most to tell of Eowyn, my favourite heroine ever! I could go on forever about The Lord of the Rings, but I will try to restrain myself for now.

I'm sure that this list will always change slightly, perhaps due to new books that I am exposed to or my mood on that particular day, but this is how I am feeling today! What are five books that changed your life? To share your thoughts, recommendations or review requests, please comment below, email me (theopinionatedbookworm@gmail.com) or follow me on Instagram (@theopinionatedbookworm1).

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