I suspect every reader knows how difficult it is to name a favorite book. There are simply too many. Narrowing down to the most influential book, or even ten of them, feels even harder.
The books here are in no particular order. Naturally, as a Christian, the Bible tops this list, but here are ten others that came to mind.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Anne’s vibrancy for life and delight in the little things is something I strive for, and I love her phrase: “I never make the same mistake twice.”
Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen
Austen has been my favorite author since I was introduced to her books when I was ten. There’s something about her writing and characters that is still relatable today. Of all her heroines, Catherine is the one I relate to most…and Henry Tilney’s humor is one of the things I hope for in my future husband.
Elsie Dinsmore by Martha Finley
Though Elsie is admittedly perfect to a fault, and this series isn’t even close to ranking among my favorites, her values and strength of character gave me something to aspire to.
Freckles by Gene Stratton-Porter
The honesty and morals of Freckles, his hard work ethic, and his love of natural beauty, are all traits that endear him to the reader and make him an example of someone to be like.
Dear America: Across the Wide and Lonesome Prairie by Kristiana Gregory
The Dear America series was one I followed pretty closely as I was growing up, but this was the one that I kept coming back to. Hattie’s strength throughout the difficult times—which far outweigh anything I’ve gone through—is inspiring.
Monster by Mirriam Neal
This book just came out this year, but I already know it’s one that will stay with me. The book brings up deep topics and makes the reader think.
My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers
This is a daily devotional, but I like to just read through it and highlight the especially good parts. A lot of my book is highlighted.
The Shack by William Young
I call this my lullaby book. It always reminds me how much God (Papa) loves me, and relaxes me when things get stressful.
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
This is one of those books I read as a kid, over and over. It might seem a little silly to include it on this list, but it taught me that making mistakes is okay—and to always keep a positive attitude.
The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott
This is another somewhat unrealistic story, but it’s close to my heart, and Edith’s unconditional forgiveness is something I wish I had.
Some of these are on my list of favorites; some are just stories that stayed with me. Each of them, in their own way, made me who I am.
About Jansina Books have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I was the kind of kid who pulled out grammar books in the summer and wrote research papers "for fun." (No joke.)
My young adult novels, Forgotten Memories and Shrouded Jewels. are available on Amazon, and my third, As Fairydust Settles, will be out early this month.
In 2012, I began my editing and publishing company, Rivershore Books. I now have three secondary proofreaders and an illustrator working with me, and the business continues to grow.
My goal is to honor God in my writing, and encourage other authors to do the same with their own.
Website: www.rivershorebooks.com
Forgotten Memories: http://rivershorebooks.storenvy.com/products/916220
Shrouded Jewels: http://rivershorebooks.storenvy.com/collections/152672
As Fairydust Settles (currently pre-order, but available at the same link soon): http://rivershorebooks.storenvy.com/products/921200
Thank you so much for sharing about the books that have helped form who you are. I feel the same way about the books that have greatly affected my life and the virtues I value. I had to smile particularly about Amelia Bedelia. Children's books were a huge part of my life when I was little, and they were the foundation for my deep appreciation of books. Amelia Bedelia is a classic. Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Grace! Definitely agree about children's books. Many of those have a special place in my heart still. :)
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