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.