Rediscovering the joy of reading

Up until my mid-20s, I was an unapologetic bookworm. Teachers often called my mom, complaining that I was secretly reading during class. For me, assigned readings in literature were mere suggestions — I’d finish the book ahead of time and then hide another book inside The Merchant of Venice during class. Walking and reading was as natural to me as walking while scrolling through a phone is to people today.

As I’ve grown older, I sometimes wonder if my reading habits changed because life became more distracting, whether due to technology or simply the demands of adulthood. Despite the abundance of book review sites and recommendations, finding a truly engaging read is still a challenge—I often find myself judging books by their covers and hoping for the best.

Recently, though, I’ve rediscovered the pleasure of getting lost in a good book. It started with Malcolm Gladwell’s Talking to Strangers and continued with Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. These books rekindled my love for reading and got me thinking about the books that have made a lasting impact on me over the years. Here are some of my all-time favorites, along with a few reflections on why they mean so much to me.

Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali

It’s been eighteen years since I first read Infidel, and while the details have faded, the emotions I felt remain vivid. I now realize that I read this book at a pivotal moment in my life when I was beginning to question my relationship with religion. Infidel opened my eyes to a world far removed from my own—one where extremism in religion can have a profound and often damaging impact on people’s lives.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali’s story is one of courage and determination as she questioned the rules and beliefs she was raised with and sought to redefine her spirituality. Her fight against injustice, despite her hopes for change, resonated deeply with me and influenced my perspective on faith and resilience.

Tamora Pierce: The Tortall Universe

Tamora Pierce has long been one of my favorite authors, particularly her series set in the Tortall Universe. These books feature strong, determined heroines who challenge societal norms and carve out their own paths. My favourite character, Alanna of Trebond, defies expectations to become a lady knight—a journey that captivated me as a young reader and continues to inspire me today.

Pierce’s fantastical worlds, filled with powerful women unafraid to create their own destinies, have left a lasting impact on me. I’ve re-read the series over the years, and each time I’m reminded of the importance of perseverance, courage, and self-belief.

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari

Yuval Noah Harari is both a brilliant thinker and a gifted writer, and Sapiens is a testament to his ability to make complex ideas accessible. This book takes readers on an extensive journey through the history of humankind, offering insights into how our past has shaped the world we live in today.

I’ve always wished that history lessons in school could be broader and more in-depth, as they help us understand not just where we come from, but also where we might be headed. Sapiens fulfills this wish by providing a compelling, comprehensible, and enlightening exploration of human history. It’s a seminal work that continues to influence my understanding of the world.

Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell

Malcolm Gladwell has a unique talent for presenting complicated topics in a way that feels simple and relatable, and his books are always a joy to read. In Talking to Strangers, he explores social and psychological behaviors through real-life stories that serve as analogies for broader societal issues.

The book presents a radical idea—that humans have a natural tendency to default to truth. This insight was both enlightening and introspective for me, prompting me to reflect on how often we choose to believe what we’re told rather than what we see with our own eyes. Gladwell’s exploration of this concept made me rethink past experiences and has given me a new lens through which to view interactions with others.

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

If Malcolm Gladwell and Yuval Noah Harari opened up my mind, then Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life ripped my heart out multiple times and left me emotionally drained and on the floor. This book is a powerful, harrowing read that I have no regrets about finishing, though I’m not sure I have the emotional strength to go through it again.

Don’t be fooled by its seemingly unassuming synopsis—A Little Life is an emotional storm that will leave a lasting impact on anyone who reads it. My advice: read this book, but try not to do so in public, if you can help it.

Swoosh: The Unauthorized Story of Nike and the Men Who Played There

Swoosh tells the story of Nike’s early days—a time when it was a rebellious, cowboy-like company filled with daring individuals and a “why not?” attitude. It’s a tale of fighting spirit and innovation, capturing the essence of what made Nike the brand it is today.

This book provides an inside look at the company’s origins and the personalities that shaped it, offering valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and the power of bold ideas. An exhilarating read.

These are just a few of the books that have left a lasting impact on me over the years. Whether by opening up new worlds, challenging my beliefs, or stirring deep emotions, each one has played a role in shaping who I am today.?

What about you? I’d love to hear about the books that have shaped your life. What are some of your all-time favorites, or recent reads that have left a mark on you?