The best 20 Life Changing books

In need of a life-changing read? Look no further! This book list is packed with titles that have the power to transform your perspective and inspire personal growth. From self-help and motivation to memoirs and philosophical explorations, these books will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on new challenges. Open your mind and prepare for a life-changing experience with these transformative reads.

The best 20 Life Changing books
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1
Life Changing Books: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Fahrenheit 451

Ray Bradbury
4.8 (53 ratings)
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What's Fahrenheit 451 about?

Fahrenheit 451 (1953) tells the tale of a near future with fireproof homes, where firemen are now tasked with the job of burning books. It’s a dystopian future, where pleasure is catered to and intellectualism has been all but extinguished. But after a chance encounter with a free spirit, one fireman starts to question the true purpose of his job.

Who should read Fahrenheit 451?

  • Fans of classic literature
  • Sci-fi lovers
  • Anyone who enjoys a good dystopian novel

What's The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time about?

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (2003) by Mark Haddon is a captivating novel that offers a unique perspective on the world. Through the eyes of a 15-year-old boy with autism, it delves into themes of family, truth, and the power of perspective. The book takes readers on a thought-provoking journey as it unravels the mystery surrounding a neighbor's murdered dog.

Who should read The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time?

  • Readers who enjoy unique and unconventional narrative styles
  • People interested in gaining perspective on the experience of individuals with autism
  • Those who appreciate a thought-provoking exploration of human behavior and relationships

3
Life Changing Books: The Fault in Our Stars by Nicola Winstanley, John Green

The Fault in Our Stars

Nicola Winstanley, John Green

What's The Fault in Our Stars about?

The Fault in Our Stars is actually written by John Green and tells the story of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet at a cancer support group. As they bond over their favorite books and share their fears and dreams, they embark on a journey that challenges their perspectives on life and love. It is a poignant and beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of living with illness and the power of human connection.

Who should read The Fault in Our Stars?

  • Readers who enjoy emotionally impactful and thought-provoking stories
  • Those who appreciate authentic and relatable characters
  • Anyone interested in exploring themes of love, loss, and the meaning of life

4
Life Changing Books: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover

It Ends with Us

Colleen Hoover

What's It Ends with Us about?

It Ends with Us is a powerful novel by Colleen Hoover that delves into the complexities of love, strength, and the choices we make. It tells the story of Lily Bloom, a young woman who finds herself in a tumultuous relationship. As she grapples with her past and present, the book explores themes of resilience, empowerment, and the courage to break free from toxic patterns.

Who should read It Ends with Us?

  • Readers who enjoy emotional and thought-provoking stories
  • Those who are interested in exploring complex and realistic portrayals of relationships
  • People who are looking for a book that addresses important and sensitive topics with empathy and depth

What's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian about?

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is a captivating coming-of-age novel that follows a young Native American boy named Junior as he navigates life on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Filled with humor, honesty, and heartache, Junior's diary entries offer a unique perspective on identity, friendship, and the pursuit of a better future.

Who should read The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian?

  • Tweens and teenagers dealing with identity and self-discovery
  • Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with humor and honesty
  • Those interested in exploring complex issues such as racism, poverty, and cultural identity

What's The Five People You Meet in Heaven about?

The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom tells the story of Eddie, a maintenance man who dies while saving a young girl from an amusement park accident. In the afterlife, he encounters five people who have had a significant impact on his life and learns valuable lessons about forgiveness, love, and the interconnectedness of all lives. This thought-provoking novel explores the idea that every life has a purpose and that we are all connected in ways we may not realize.

Who should read The Five People You Meet in Heaven?

  • Individuals seeking a thought-provoking exploration of life's purpose and interconnectedness
  • Readers who enjoy stories that blend realism with elements of the supernatural
  • Those who appreciate well-crafted characters and emotionally resonant narratives

7
Life Changing Books: Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak

Laurie Halse Anderson

What's Speak about?

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is a powerful novel that tells the story of Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes an outcast after a traumatic event. Unable to speak about what happened, she struggles with depression and isolation. Through her journey, she finds her voice and ultimately learns to speak up and confront the truth.

Who should read Speak?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and emotionally impactful novels
  • Young adults and teenagers dealing with issues such as bullying, depression, and finding their voice
  • Parents, teachers, and professionals looking to understand the challenges and experiences of adolescents

8
Life Changing Books: Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Ender's Game

Orson Scott Card

What's Ender's Game about?

Ender's Game (1985) is a science fiction novel that follows the story of a young boy, Ender Wiggin, who is recruited into a prestigious military academy in space. Trained to lead Earth's defense against an alien race, Ender must navigate complex simulations and intense challenges that test his strategic genius. As the fate of humanity hangs in the balance, Ender prepares for a final battle that will determine the outcome of the war.

Who should read Ender's Game?

  • Science fiction enthusiasts looking for a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating read
  • Readers interested in exploring themes of war, morality, and the consequences of one's actions
  • Individuals who enjoy stories with complex and multi-layered characters

9
Life Changing Books: Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Wonder

R. J. Palacio

What's Wonder about?

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that follows the story of August Pullman, a young boy born with a facial deformity. It delves into the challenges he faces as he enters a mainstream school for the first time and the impact he has on those around him. The book touches on themes of kindness, acceptance, and the beauty of being different.

Who should read Wonder?

  • Readers who enjoy heartwarming and uplifting stories
  • Individuals looking for insights into empathy and kindness
  • Parents, educators, and children who want to understand and navigate the challenges of being different

10
Life Changing Books: Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Life of Pi

Yann Martel

What's Life of Pi about?

Life of Pi by Yann Martel is a captivating novel that tells the extraordinary story of a young Indian boy named Pi, who survives a shipwreck and is left stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger. It is a tale of adventure, resilience, and the power of faith, as Pi must find a way to coexist with the wild animal in order to survive. This thought-provoking book challenges our perceptions of reality and belief, leaving readers questioning the boundaries of imagination and the depths of the human spirit.

Who should read Life of Pi?

  • Readers who enjoy philosophical and thought-provoking literature
  • Those with an interest in exploring the nature of storytelling and truth
  • People who appreciate unique and imaginative narratives

11
Life Changing Books: Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides

Middlesex

Jeffrey Eugenides

What's Middlesex about?

Middlesex is a novel by Jeffrey Eugenides that tells the story of Calliope Stephanides, a hermaphrodite who grows up in Detroit. The book explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience, as Calliope navigates her unique journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.

Who should read Middlesex?

  • Readers who enjoy multi-generational family sagas
  • Individuals interested in exploring themes of identity and gender
  • Those who appreciate richly detailed and thought-provoking storytelling

12
Life Changing Books: All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

All the Bright Places

Jennifer Niven

What's All the Bright Places about?

All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that explores mental illness, love, and the impact we have on each other. It tells the story of two teenagers, Violet and Finch, who meet on the ledge of a bell tower and develop an unlikely friendship as they embark on a journey to discover the beauty and meaning in their lives.

Who should read All the Bright Places?

  • Readers who enjoy young adult fiction
  • Those looking for a heartfelt and emotional story
  • People interested in mental health and the impact it has on individuals

13
Life Changing Books: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

A Thousand Splendid Suns

Khaled Hosseini

What's A Thousand Splendid Suns about?

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini tells the story of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn Afghanistan, the novel explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the enduring power of love. It is a compelling and heartbreaking tale that sheds light on the lives of women in a patriarchal society.

Who should read A Thousand Splendid Suns?

  • Readers who enjoy emotionally powerful storytelling
  • Individuals interested in the lives and experiences of women in Afghanistan
  • Those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of war and conflict on personal lives

14
Life Changing Books: Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, Christian Frobenius

Thirteen Reasons Why

Jay Asher, Christian Frobenius

What's Thirteen Reasons Why about?

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a compelling novel that delves into the delicate issues of teenage suicide, bullying, and the ripple effects of our actions. Told through cassette tapes left by a girl named Hannah Baker, it follows the thirteen reasons why she decided to take her own life. This thought-provoking book challenges us to reconsider how we treat others and the impact it can have.

Who should read Thirteen Reasons Why?

  • Anyone interested in exploring the complexities of teenage mental health and bullying
  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives and multiple perspectives
  • People who want to gain insight into the impact of small actions on others

15
Life Changing Books: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle

Jeannette Walls

What's The Glass Castle about?

The Glass Castle is a memoir by Jeannette Walls that delves into her unconventional and challenging childhood. Walls recounts her experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family, constantly on the move and living in poverty. Despite the hardships, the book also explores themes of resilience, determination, and the unbreakable bond within her family.

Who should read The Glass Castle?

  • Readers who enjoy memoirs and personal stories
  • People looking for inspiration and resilience in the face of adversity
  • Those interested in exploring themes of family dynamics, poverty, and personal growth

16

What's The Things They Carried about?

The Things They Carried is a powerful book by Tim O'Brien that tells the story of a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War. Blurring the line between fiction and memoir, it delves into the emotional and psychological weight that soldiers carry with them. Through gripping storytelling, O'Brien takes readers on a journey that examines the realities of war and the burden of memory.

Who should read The Things They Carried?

  • Readers who are interested in the emotional and psychological experiences of soldiers during the Vietnam War
  • Those who enjoy thought-provoking narratives that blur the lines between fiction and non-fiction
  • People who appreciate introspective and reflective storytelling

17
Life Changing Books: Looking for Alaska by John Green

Looking for Alaska

John Green

What's Looking for Alaska about?

Looking for Alaska (2005) is a compelling coming-of-age novel by John Green. It follows the story of a young boy named Miles “Pudge” Halter as he enrolls in boarding school and meets the enigmatic Alaska Young. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning, taking readers on an emotional journey that challenges their perspectives on life and death.

Who should read Looking for Alaska?

  • Individuals seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally impactful coming-of-age story
  • Readers who enjoy exploring themes of friendship, love, loss, and personal growth
  • Young adults navigating the complexities of adolescence and the search for meaning in life

18
Life Changing Books: Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut

Cat's Cradle

Kurt Vonnegut

What's Cat's Cradle about?

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of science, religion, and the destructive potential of humankind. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story follows a writer who becomes entangled in a complex web of lies surrounding the creation of a deadly substance called Ice-nine. With Vonnegut's signature dark humor and sharp wit, the book challenges our beliefs and raises important questions about the consequences of our actions.

Who should read Cat's Cradle?

  • Readers who enjoy satirical and thought-provoking storytelling
  • Individuals interested in exploring themes of science, religion, and human nature
  • Those who appreciate unconventional narrative structures and dark humor

19
Life Changing Books: Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov, Friederike Poziemski

Lolita

Vladimir Nabokov, Friederike Poziemski

What's Lolita about?

Lolita is a novel by Vladimir Nabokov that delves into the controversial and taboo topic of a middle-aged man's obsession with a twelve-year-old girl. Through beautiful prose and intricate storytelling, Nabokov challenges the reader to confront their own moral boundaries and raises questions about the nature of love, desire, and the power dynamics in relationships.

Who should read Lolita?

  • Readers with a strong stomach for controversial and challenging subject matter
  • People interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and obsession
  • Those who appreciate masterful and thought-provoking storytelling

What's The Perks of Being a Wallflower about?

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a poignant coming-of-age story that follows Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager. Through a series of letters, Charlie shares his experiences as he navigates high school, friendship, love, and loss. The book delves into themes of mental health, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

Who should read The Perks of Being a Wallflower?

  • Teenagers and young adults navigating the ups and downs of adolescence
  • Individuals who appreciate introspective and emotionally resonant storytelling
  • Readers who enjoy coming-of-age narratives with complex and relatable characters

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Life Changing Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Life Changing book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Fahrenheit 451 as the ultimate read on Life Changing.

What are the Top 10 Life Changing books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
  • The Fault in Our Stars by Nicola Winstanley, John Green
  • It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
  • The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
  • The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
  • Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
  • Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Wonder by R. J. Palacio
  • Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Who are the top Life Changing book authors?

When it comes to Life Changing, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Ray Bradbury
  • Mark Haddon
  • Nicola Winstanley, John Green
  • Colleen Hoover
  • Sherman Alexie