The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I am a bibliophile.

At what age did you first read The Great Gatsby?
In college.

How did you come to read this book?
I do not remember.

Why has this book inspired you?
It deals with possibilities that never happen.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
It made me want my dreams to true.

Driven From Within by Michael Jordan and Mark Vancil

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
The thrill of learning something new.

At what age did you first read Driven From Within?
22 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
I don't remember.

Why has this book inspired you?
It shows what it takes to reach your goals and to push yourself.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
It has made me more determined to reach my personal goals and to be the best I can be.

A Child Called "It" by Dave Pelzer

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
It is relaxing to read.

At what age did you first read A Child Called "It"?
45 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
A friend told me about it.

Why has this book inspired you?
It was a true story about how a mother could mistreat a child.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
To never mistreat a child.

Cartoon History of the United States by Larry Gonick

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Magazine Covers.

At what age did you first read Cartoon History of the United States?
28 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
Interested in U.S. history.

Why has this book inspired you?
U.S. history is so simple and disorganized.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
I feel the need to be more proactive in life.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu

Submitted by: Sarah Snyder

Generally, what inspires you to read?
A good series.

At what age did you first read The Art of War?
20 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
Given to me by my brother who is in the navy.

Why has this book inspired you?
It makes me try harder to fulfill my dreams.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
It helps to give you confidence and strength to achieve your goals.

Ishmael by Daniel Quinn

Submitted by: John Santhew

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Gaining new insights or interesting subject matter.

At what age did you first read Ishmael?
21 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
Recommendation by a friend.

Why has this book inspired you?
It gives a new perspective on the world we live in, and it makes you think.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
It's really made me think about how I've been living and how I can change my life to live less selfishly and think more about the planet than myself.

A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess

Submitted by: Nigel Spudes

Generally, what inspires you to read?
A book's uniqueness and deviation from normality.

At what age did you first read A Clockwork Orange?
Sixteen.

How did you come to read this book?
Recommendation from a friend.

Why has this book inspired you?
It made me think differently about language and morality.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
It has shown me the disconnect between the youth and the elders and the dangers of ignorance of that.

The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie Omartian

Submitted by: Judy Dubots

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I like to get ideas on how to be a better person.

At what age did you first read The Power of a Praying Parent?
35 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
I was introduced to the author.

Why has this book inspired you?
I keep a journal of my children and pray about their lives. I look back in the journal and see how my prayers were answered.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
It reminds me how blessed I am.

Five Smooth Stones by Ann Fairbairn

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Anything and everything.

At what age did you first read Five Smooth Stones?
20 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
Recommendation by my mother.

Why has this book inspired you?
The story is about the turbulent racial times of the 1960's. It was the first book that delved into interracial relationships I ever read.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
Five Smooth Stones made me aware of how isolated my upbringing was and caused me to weigh all sides of an issue before forming opinions.

The Bible

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
To be informed about the world and the history of our world.

At what age did you first read The Bible?
10 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
Teacher recommendation.

Why has this book inspired you?
The book informs me about cultural differences and it has inspired me to be respectful of those differences.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
I try very hard to live a life in which I am a positive influence on others.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Educational purposes, children's books

At what age did you first read The Giving Tree?
8 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
It was passed down through family.

Why has this book inspired you?
I think this book was written with great creativity and an inspirational message which inspires me.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
My family and friends [who passed the book on to me] have greatly influenced me especially through their support and love for me.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

Submitted by: President Jay Lemons

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Human stories, narrative, and great prose.

At what age did you first read Man's Search for Meaning?
During college.

How did you come to read this book?
It was part of a class.

Why has this book inspired you?
The book is an extraordinary portrayal of life in a Nazi concentration camp and about the power of individuals to find meaning, value, and love even in the most difficult of circumstances, if they can find a reason or hope for surviving.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced?
Make the most of each day. Look for and find meaning in each encounter. Always hold closely to hope and those we love.

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

Submitted by: Emily Morris

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I have to read to fall asleep, and I enjoy it.

When did you first read Harry Potter Series?
2000 when I was 14.

How did you come to read this book?
My mom gave it to me.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
I really never read before I started reading Harry Potter but now I find that reading is enjoyable!

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I have since read other books and become a more knowledgeable and well rounded person.

The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

Submitted by: Armenta Hinton

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I read for several reasons. I read to learn and for research. When my children were younger, I read to relax them to put them to sleep. Often I could read newspapers or even position papers. It was the sound of my voice that they enjoyed, not what I was reading. Often I read to relax and to find a happy ending!

When did you first read The Age of Innocence?
I first read this book in college.

How did you come to read this book?
I was learning about American Literature and women authors.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
I like Edith Wharton's use of the language. I love the scene that she set in the gilded age of turn of the century New York. It seems a time of sheltered enchantment. As a Black woman, it is hard to imagine that while my ancestors were recently freed from slavery that there was another part of society that was oblivious to the indignities that they suffered, and lived in a protected cocoon of society balls, social graces and the ceremony surrounding their lives.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
This book seems at times to be contemptuous of upper class society. It is refreshing to visit the other side, and to see where some of the customs and rituals that permeate polite African American society stem from. Wharton paints a wonderful picture. This book is candy for those that need and crave beautiful imagery in their reading.

Catch 22 by Joseph Heller

Submitted by: Brandt Waples

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I am inspired to read out of curiosity for a subject or concept that I do not understand.

When did you first read Catch 22?
Summer 2006

How did you come to read this book?
I was walking around Borders trying to find a book to read to pass time at work. I noticed the book was under "Classics" so I bought it.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It's helped me to realize that there will be several situations that you will be caught in and you will face consequences either way.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
This book has influenced me to be more cautious and to avoid certain situations. I do not need to help try to solve every problem because I might do more damage.

My Sister's Keeper: A Novel by Jodi Picoult

Submitted by: Kasey Hinrichs

Generally, what inspires you to read?
The story/plot line. It has to have a realistic feel to it.

When did you first read My Sister's Keeper: A Novel?
Senior year of high school

How did you come to read this book?
My mom read it in her book club and suggested I read it, so that meant a lot to me.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It made me feel thankful for what I have in my life and to always fight for what I believe in.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
This book helped me become more confident in myself and has inspired me to always speak up for myself.

Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap… and Others Don't by Jim Collins

Submitted by: Angela Motto

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Knowing I will gain knowledge from the particular piece. I mostly read fiction.

When did you first read Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap… and Others Don't?
2004

How did you come to read this book?
Hellen Nunn. I was looking for inspiration in my field of interest, business.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It enhanced my management style and the way I carry myself professionally. Great leaders do not take credit, but encourage and listen to peer suggestions.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It gave me confidence in my managerial style. Also, it was a great foundation for several of my MBA courses.

Night by Ellie Wiesel

Submitted by: Angela Motto

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Knowing I will gain knowledge from the particular piece. I mostly read fiction.

When did you first read Night?
Freshman year @ SU

How did you come to read this book?
It was assigned in a Lit course

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It peeked my interest about the Holocaust more than ever. I visited Auschwitz and have a better outlook on the event.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It has encouraged me to learn more about the era, the war, the Holocaust.

The Bible

Submitted by: Mark Radecke

Generally, what inspires you to read?
The opportunity to learn, to experience things outside my own life and culture, to take my mind and spirit to places real and imaginative, and sometimes simple to escape!

When did you first read The Bible?
It was read to me as a young child, after that, as soon as I could read.

How did you come to read this book?
It was given to me.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The story of Israel, Jesus, and the church is the story of origins and ultimate destiny. Its heroes are real, often with clay feet, foibles and follies, and yet the pervasive message is that God uses just such people to accomplish God's good ends.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It is the story that norms my story, informs my mind, and forms my soul.

The Inner Game of Tennis by Tim Gallwey

Submitted by: Caleb Thomas

Generally, what inspires you to read?
The fun and learning involved. So much is passed up because books are not read.

When did you first read The Inner Game of Tennis?
I read it in college, my first semester.

How did you come to read this book?
I heard about it through one of my music teachers. It was recommended highly.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It relates music to life in every way, and has helped with cooling my uptight nerves in performance situations.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It helped me with my music--everything I do in life can be related to my music, so therefore I can live a life more like a musician. It helps with everything!

Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut (short story published in Welcome to the Monkey House)

Submitted by: Nick Stephenson

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I like the solitude you experience when you read, I find the times that I read to be incredibly relaxing. I also like that when I read I feel like an active participant in the experience; I get to contribute to the look and feel of the people and places.

When did you first read Harrison Bergeron?
11th grade (1994)

How did you come to read this book?
Assigned reading in a high school satire class

Why has this book inspired you the most?
Probably because at the time I first read the story I found the writing style of this book to be so different than everything I had read prior to it. This story opened up a whole new genre of literature and a style of writing that for the first time in my life really spoke to me. This story made me want to read more and eventually began the path to me becoming an English major in college.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
On top of what is written above, Vonnegut's satirical look at a future in which "everybody was finally equal" encourages us to always question why and to never handicap potential. This book is a warning that if you take the easy path rather than the right path you can doom yourself and the future.

Ordinary People by Judith Guest

Submitted by: Jillian Trimmel

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I read because I like to better myself and expand my ideas. I've been reading since I was little and I've always loved it!

When did you first read Ordinary People?
I read it the summer before sophomore year in high school.

How did you come to read this book?
It was assigned reading for my American English class.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
This book inspired me not by the events in the book, but by the overall message. The message demonstrates that even stereotypically "normal" people aren't normal.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It is indicative of what I want to do with psychology. I want to help people with problems who try to fit into a "normal" world.

A Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Submitted by: Anne Brockman

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I love to read. My interest in finding books I truly enjoy inspires me to read.

When did you first read A Brave New World?
11th grade

How did you come to read this book?
Honors English class

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The book inspired me to battle against conformity in a modern society.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I have realized the dangers of society's becoming too scientifically advanced. I realized not all progress is beneficial.

Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder

Submitted by: Tess Ryley

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I love to learn. Reading enables you to not just learn but to be transported to another place.

When did you first read Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World?
2006

How did you come to read this book?
Required for a class.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It shows how much good one person can do.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I feel like I can do something big too, if I try!

The Beggar's Strike by Aminata Sow Fall

Submitted by: Tess Ryley

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I love to learn. Reading enables you to not just learn but to be transported to another place.

When did you first read The Beggar's Strike?
I read it while I was in Senegal.

How did you come to read this book?
It was recommended reading to better understand Senegalese culture.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It shows how people are all connected and how disenfranchised people can join together to beat the system.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I now feel more connected to everyone around me.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Submitted by: Ashley Powell

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I usually read when I want to be informed about something or when I want to escape reality.

When did you first read The Great Gatsby?
I first read this in 11th grade for my honors English class.

How did you come to read this book?
I had to read it for class, but I re-read it when a friend couldn't sell it back to the book store. She knew it was my favorite so she gave it to me.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It allows you to see the human aspect of each character. It makes you see how money and notoriety can have many pitfalls.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It made me strive for happiness and appreciate my own simple life. I stopped focusing on money and materials.

1984 by George Orwell

Submitted by: Shawn Collier

Generally, what inspires you to read?
For the most part I don't like to read that much, but I like to read books involving sports.

When did you first read 1984?
Senior year of high school - 2006/2007

How did you come to read this book?
I had to read it for my English class

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It showed that things are not good when everyone follows things exactly and has no opinion of their own. Also, it showed how absolute power can go to a person's head. Hopefully this can teach people in power to be respectful of the people beneath them.

The Three Musketeers by Alexander Dumas

Submitted by: Derek Husar

Generally, what inspires you to read?
There are two reasons why I choose to read. The first is to learn more about a certain subject, and the second is to escape reality.

When did you first read The Three Musketeers?
I first read this book in the 7th grade as part of a required reading program.

How did you come to read this book?
My father over the years has generated a large library in our basement consisting of many classic pieces of literature. When I was required to read, for the program, I picked on of interest.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
This book inspires me to read more works by Dumas.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
Reading used to be boring. After I learned that there were some interesting reads, I have not stopped.

Go Ask Alice by Anonymous

Submitted by: Katherine Stenman

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I get inspired to read when I hear good things about a book, or if I become interested in a certain topic.

When did you first read Go Ask Alice?
When I was in 8th grade

How did you come to read this book?
My friend told me about it and I became very interested.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The girl in this book has so many ups and downs in her life. She gets into drugs, then tries to make something of herself. It's very interesting. I don't think she ends up off drugs and happy, but the rollercoaster of her life makes me feel like even if you mess up you can get yourself back on track. The girl does, and I find this inspiring, even if in the end her life turned out badly.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It has made me more aware of the effects of drugs and decisions that people make. It made me not want to make some of the mistakes made in this book.

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

Submitted by: Shala Girolami

Generally, what inspires you to read?
To expand my knowledge and vocabulary. Also to escape, and learn about experiences I wouldn't usually engage in.

When did you first read Tuesdays with Morrie?
2004

How did you come to read this book?
College writing class @ SU

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It's an inspirational story of a man suffering from a disease that enlightens a student to value his life and learn life lessons.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It has made me value what I have and value my health.

The Bible

Submitted by: Christopher Miller

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I'm not one who likes to read a lot for personal enjoyment, but when I do read, I like to read to find out information that I didnt' already know and hopefully that will strengthen me as an individual.

When did you first read The Bible?
When I was in Sunday School at age 7.

How did you come to read this book?
Through church and my family

Why has this book inspired you the most?
Without it, I have no hope for this life or eternal life with God. It gives me rules and principles to live by and also gives me accounts of others who have gone through similar things that I have in life, and the Lord has brought them through those situations.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It gives me a code to live by. It tells me when I'm wrong and when I'm right and has made me a stronger person by God's grace.

The Pact by Sampson Davis, George Jenkins, and Rameck Hunt

Submitted by: Bryan Majors

Generally, what inspires you to read?
The lack of knowledge black men in my community have. I like to be able to pass as much knowledge as possible along to those who can't further their education.

When did you first read The Pact?
Senior year of high school

How did you come to read this book?
My mother passed it on to me

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The book taught me a variety of life lessons and gave me insight on how to attack life from all angles.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I've been influenced to make wise choices, live life to the fullest, and always chase my dreams.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

Submitted by: Ryan McAdam

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Anything that catches my eye. I am not a very big reader, so I only read particular books.

When did you first read Of Mice and Men?
In high school for English class

How did you come to read this book?
We were to read the book to write a paper on it and take a test. I read the sparknotes and enjoyed it so much that I read the book.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The significance of relationships.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
It has made me think of things in a different way.

Little Children by Tom Perrotta

Submitted by: Colby Snook

Generally, what inspires you to read?
School work

When did you first read Little Children?
2008

How did you come to read this book?
Assignment for English class

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It brings true life to the real world.

Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10 by Marcus Luttrell

Submitted by: Alex Dowd

Generally, what inspires you to read?
The constant pursuit of knowledge.

When did you first read Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10?
December 2007/January 2008

How did you come to read this book?
I got it as a gift for Christmas.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The book is about a team of Navy Seals and it's an awe-inspiring tale of courage and perseverance, which has inspired me to always give 100% and then some in everything I do.

The Bible

Submitted by: Anonymous

Generally, what inspires you to read?
That a book can teach you things and experiences, and take your mind to new places when you're just sitting on your couch.

When did you first read The Bible?
As a child

How did you come to read this book?
Through parents

Why has this book inspired you the most?
This book was written so long ago, yet it has answers to all of our questions and can still be applied.

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

Submitted by: Jody Hare

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Relaxation - it's how I unwind at midnight when I get home after a 15-hour work-day..

When did you first read The Secret?
Summer 2007.

How did you come to read this book?
Oprah and a friend's recommendation.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It really forces you to think about how you present and process ideas...rather than dwelling on the 1 you got wrong, focusing on the 99 you got right.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
Learned "What you focus on expands!" For example, rather than writing "Don't hesitate to contact me.", phrasing it "Feel free to contact me.", eliminates the negative element of the message, and changes outlook and reaction.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Submitted by: Kathleen Schanbacher

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I love to go places I've never been, meet people I will otherwise never meet, and have experiences that thrill, teach and inform me in ways that will impact my life and the lives of others.

When did you first read To Kill a Mockingbird?
I first read the book in high school during the late 1960's when race relations were strained, at best, in my school district. Students were being bused up to an hour away to integrate schools in the city. I had never experienced the feelings which dominated the lives of some of the students I met, and I could identify with Scout's family and the way the children didn't understand prejudice.

How did you come to read this book?
It was assigned by my high school English teacher.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
So many of the themes are still issues today.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
There are themes on many levels that have inspired me. As a mother, I thought of how carefully and tenderly Atticus shared adult issues with his children. I too have had to discuss today's adult issues with my children, from the tragedy of 9-11, to child abuse and molestation, to drugs and alcohol, to race and religious relations. I was touched by the way handicapped individuals, like Boo Radley, were treated then, and how differently I treat those children mainstreamed in my classroom today. I've thought about how in school today we differentiate and write Individualized Educational Plans (IEP's) to accommodate children of different ability levels. Scout, in the novel, was not allowed to read in school, because the teacher hadn't taught it yet. The book continues to make me reflect on how far we have come, and how far we have yet to go.

A Heartbreaking Work of a Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers

Submitted by: Heather Mccartney

Generally, what inspires you to read?
As a writer, you grow and expand your talent by reading other's work. You cannot quite grasp language and the way it is used if you do not read.

When did you first read A Heartbreaking Work of a Staggering Genius?
Sophomore year of college- 2006

How did you come to read this book?
Dr. Roth's Contemporary American Lit course

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The story is about a young man, around 23, who's parents die and he is suddenly the sole gaurdian of his 7 year old brother. It's a post-modern chronicle of their lives as the little brother grows up. The narrator can be both selfless and selfish at times, and the story range made true to me the flaw and beauty of human beings and how they love one another.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
The book made me rethink my relationships, specifically with my family. I began to realize how much my mother truly sacrifices everyday so that I could be where I am today.

Fun Home by Alison Bechdel

Submitted by: Kristin Bentzen

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Stimulating my mind, learning new things, reading for pleasure (a story about something I like, am interested in, etc.)

When did you first read Fun Home?
February 2008

How did you come to read this book?
It was assigned for a class, but I would have read it anyway.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
I like LGBT literature, and as an advocate of the LGBT cause, I wanted to read it.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I would not say that my life has been changed, but it has definitely been influenced by the story of someone's life. Reading a story of someone who came from a nontraditional, even broken family, and made something positive out of that experience, is truly inspiring.

Jacqueline Kennedy: A Biography by Dawn Langley Simmons

Submitted by: Caro Mercado

Generally, what inspires you to read?
What generally inspires me to read is the quest for knowledge or sheer escapism. Reading is an avocation for me that allows me to decompress and retreat into another world whether it fictional or non-fictional. I also listen to audiobooks which allows one to truly immerse oneself into the material.

When did you first read Jacqueline Kennedy: A Biography?
1983

How did you come to read this book?
High school English assignment.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
Several books stand out for me as inspirational. The Autobiography of Malcom X was particularly in that it helped me to understand his life in a completely different manner than one would get from newsreels or other sources. I also am a huge fan of Jane Austen and love to get lost in her novels. If I had to choose one book, it would have to be a book I read on Jacqueline Kennedy. Her life story was fascinating and continues to inspire me as a woman, mother, and educator.
Reading about someone who in many ways set the standard for the American ideal - wealth, power, access, privilege, and beauty - yet whose life and legacy was marred by utter tragedy and sorrow still moved me. She was born to all the privilege in the world but that could not prevent the terrible things that befell her and her family. She rose above it and made a life for herself and her children and remains a woman of stature in our history.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
The book in and of itself was not the influential force but rather the subject of Jackie Kennedy's life helped me to see myself at that time in my life as a young woman of potential, and despite personal loss or circumstances beyond one's control, one can still achieve life goals and make a difference in the lives around us.

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

Submitted by: Nikki Tobias

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Increased knowledge gained from reading, relaxation.

When did you first read The Secret?
2007

How did you come to read this book?
Oprah's XM Radio Station.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It challenges me to think about my thoughts and my actions and to use the "Law of Attraction" to bring more of the things I want into my life.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I am more reflective, I think critically about my thoughts and actions, I've shared it with friends and family, I've used some of the activities in the book with the Resident Assistants.

No Logo by Naomi Klien

Submitted by: Eric Lassahn

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Thirst for knowledge, entertainment, relaxation, etc.

When did you first read No Logo?
2003

How did you come to read this book?
I don't remember- someone must have told me about it.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
It raised my awareness regarding consumerism, sustainability, the pitfalls of globalization and what we can do about it.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I am more conscientious of the way I live and the products I buy, and I have become more intentional in my work with students (i.e. focus on service, service-learning, and civic engagement).

Fog Magic by Julia L. Sauer

Submitted by: Carrie Ellis

Generally, what inspires you to read?
I love the feeling of being whisked away to another world of different characters, settings, story lines. I use reading as a way to "escape" from the regular day and familiar routine. Reading is incredibly enjoyable and usually gives me a different perspective on life.

When did you first read Fog Magic?
I was in fourth or fifth grade when I first read the book and have read it numerous times after that.

How did you come to read this book?
I picked up the book at a bookstore and I believe was drawn to the beautiful picture on the cover and descriptive story line on the back of it. I remember being so excited to read it!

Why has this book inspired you the most?
Although I have certainly read more "intellectually-stimulating" books in my lifetime, Fog Magic reminds me of how special and important it is to read! Reading should be enjoyable and every time I read Fog Magic it takes me to another world- it is haunting and beautiful at the same time.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
Fog Magic demonstrates how anyone can find magic, beauty, ghosts, etc. in everyday situations. The book has encouraged me to find beauty in this world we live in. The book shows me the blend of fantasy and reality and most importantly for me- encourags my passion for reading.

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

Submitted by: Jenna Fredericks

Generally, what inspires you to read?
It's a rare joy/treat for me to read for pleasure; just depends on what strikes my interest at the moment. I enjoy prose that really focus on character development, real life stories, stories that emphasize a specific culture, and social commentary.

When did you first read The God of Small Things?
Senior year of college.

How did you come to read this book?
Class with Dr. Sachdev.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
The look into Indian culture was moving and inspiring.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I understand how lucky I am as an American woman.

Meditations From a Movable Chair by Andre Dubus

Submitted by: Jenny Ruth Binger

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Instinct. I've been an avid reader for as long as I remember. I haven't had TV for the past 3 years so my reading has increased to about 2 books a week.

When did you first read Meditations From a Movable Chair?
Sophomore year in college.

How did you come to read this book?
My writing professor recommended it to our class.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
This book is a series of essays about life-changing and everyday tragedies, and the author tells their stories honestly and calmly--a grace I try to emulate in my own life.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
This book has given me strength in dealing with my own set backs and those of my loved ones. This book has also been a gift to my mother as she loses the ability to walk.

Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl

Submitted by: Anna Beth Payne

Generally, what inspires you to read?
Reading expands my opportunities to communicate as well as to commune with people I would never otherwise have contact with.

When did you first read Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl?
I was 10 or 11 years old.

How did you come to read this book?
Browsing the shelves of our teeny school library. At the time I was in a school with 80 students, grades K-8.

Why has this book inspired you the most?
Anne Frank personalized what it means to confront evil and still live a more or less ordinary life. It raises not only obvious questions about how to stay hopeful, but also questions about having the courage to confront injustices.

In reading this book, how has your life been influenced or changed?
I try to do the right thing, remembering that most of the time what I fear isn't as extreme as I think! And ultimately, this book started me on a very intimate spiritual quest that has taken me to surprising places.