I'm an English teacher, so I have to have a list! Here are the books that shaped me.
Sections
2
Literature
Non-fiction
Literature
This book changed the way I see the world!
The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Paperback
This is a story of the ups and downs of friendship between two school boys. Ones an athlete and the other is a scholar. Their differences come between them, and jealousy leads to tragedy.
A Separate Peace
Beautiful book. Way more realistic story of the American Dream for those of us who live in rural America. Goodbye, Gatsby. Hello Alexandra!
O Pioneers! by Willa Cather
A simple read, but full of what matters.
The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho, Alan R. Clarke
A must read! So full of history, life lessons, harsh reality, and a sliver of hope.
To Kill a Mockingbird (Pulitzer Prize Winner)
If you have lots of questions about plot holes in the musical, read this. You will have fewer questions.
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux, Paperback
This was my favorite book for 10 years. Dystopia or 2025? You decide.
Fahrenheit 451: A Novel by Ray Bradbury, Paperback
I know it's for kids. I don't care. I love this book and always will.
A Wrinkle in Time (Time Quintet Series #1) (Newbery Medal ...
Non-fiction
Excellent book for learning to write.
Writing to Learn: How to Write and Think Clearly about Any Subject at All
He does it again. Another great writing guide for writing in any style.
On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction
Learn to write from one of the Greats!
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King, Paperback
Everyone should read and memorize this. It's short and full of wisdom.
The Elements of Style by William Strunk, E. White, Paperback
Amazing book for poets and creative writers.
Spunk and Bite: A Writer's Guide to Bold, Contemporary Style by Arthur Plotnik ...
If you wanna write stories, read this.
How Fiction Works: (Tenth Anniversary Edition) Updated and Expanded
