Books can do many things: bring joy, bring tears, empower, enlighten and so much more. And there are a handful of very special books that can completely change your life!

We’ve gathered up a list of the most powerful prose that we’ve deeply connected with. If you’re ready for a book that will change your life, read on…

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning classic To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the most beloved books of all time, and for good reasons.  Who doesn’t remember Atticus Finch with his sage wisdom, and his ever-curious children Scout and Jem? With themes that are still topical today, To Kill a Mockingbird is an unforgettable story of race, class, and growing up in the Deep South in the 1930s.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

A powerful story about a young girl who witnesses the death of her friend by local police, The Hate U Give shares an important message about justice and community. The characters are honest and complex, and the book fearlessly confronts topics such as racism, police violence, and family dynamics. This must-read book is so important.

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

Happiness is so, SO important in daily life, and this book reminds us of that fact. In Gretchen Rubin’s The Happiness Project the mother of two and lawyer-turned-author chronicles her year of searching for ways to become happier person. Gretchen’s memoir left us feeling motivated and ready to find happiness of our own!

Brave by Rose McGowan

We were surprised and captivated by Rose McGowan’s Brave, a raw and radical memoir. Rose is a strong activist and feminist badass, and through this book, she shines a light on an industry built on systemic misogyny, and empowers people everywhere.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

This no holds barred book from the refreshingly blunt Mark Manson provides a healthy dose of realism. Teaching you how to figure out which things really matter in your life, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is a much-needed grab-you-by-the-shoulders-and-look-you-in-the-eye moment of real-talk, filled with entertaining stories and ruthless humor.

Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White

Can you believe E. B. White’s cherished book is 66 years old?  The incredibly touching story of a clever spider and a little pig named Wilbur instilled a love of reading in so many people – and still does today! It’s a beautiful story of friendship, love, life, and death that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.

Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay                              

Bad Feminist is the perfect collection of essays on politics, gender, pop culture and more, is an intimate revolutionary experience not to be missed. Through these entertaining yet substantial essays Roxane Gay shares how readers can work on being more socially aware. Bad Feminist has inspired so many people and constantly encourages readers to think about equality.

The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill

From bestselling author Lawrence Hill, The Book of Negroes tells the story of a young girl abducted from her village in Africa and enslaved in South Carolina. Inspired by historical events, this sweeping historical fiction novel tackles race, love, loss and survival and it’s such a timely read.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist has touched so many readers with the magical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who travels from his home in Spain into the Egyptian desert, where a fateful encounter with the alchemist awaits him. With beautiful storytelling and filled with mysticism, The Alchemist reminds readers about the importance of following your dreams and listening to your heart.

Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig

Not only has bestselling author Matt Haig written feel-good fiction like How to Stop Time and The Girl Who Saved Christmas, he’s also published a very special book called Reasons to Stay Alive. It’s an incredibly moving account of how Matt Haig survived his own depression and anxiety as well as a practical guide for handling mental illness. Matt shows us how to live better and feel more.

What do you think, Savvy Readers? Are there any books out there that have had a profound impact on your life? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter @SavvyReader!

Happy reading,

Kelsey

Follow me on Twitter @iamkelseyknight