Top Ten Books I’m Thankful For

This month has been a whirlwind of travel and work for me so I am looking forward to a quiet few days with my family, eating delicious food, and playing with my sister’s new puppies. As a small way to give thanks, I’m taking part in Broke and Bookish’s Top Ten Tuesday feature today–the theme this week is Top Ten Books I’m Thankful For.

Home Cooking: This book made me realize what my mom has been trying to teach me for years, cooking good food simply is a great way to show people you love them.
The Fountainhead: It’s a terribly written book with a bullshit political philosophy but reading this at 18 made me realize books can change the world.
You Are Here: I got through some rough times with the help of this book. It taught me how to be nice to myself and to always remember that bad shit ends.
Everyday Matters: Danny Gregory’s creative diary inspired me to keep a sketchbook and to develop a regular creative outlet for myself regardless of my day job.
Love is the Killer App: When I worked in a ruthless environment this book reminded me that doing good business with integrity and love is possible.
Do More Great Work: This workbook inspired me to work towards a job and a career that worked for me and let me get to that great work.
Into the Wild: This story of Chris McCandless helped me remember how important the woods and wilderness were to me, and inspired me to find my way back to it.
East of the Mountains: This book inspired me to move to the Pacific Northwest 18 years ago. I just happened to settle on the other side of those mountains.
A Little Life: Yes, this book is one tragedy after another. But it is also about friendship and love, and the value in showing up.
How to Talk to Practically Anybody About Practically Anything: It was outdated even when I first read it in 2009 but some advice lasts forever. This is especially wonderful for introverts like me.