Here is a list of fiction novels I really liked that taught me a lot of lessons and allowed me to gain a different perspective on life. I read each of these books about 20 years ago at a time when I would say I didn’t like reading. It opened me up to understanding that you can gain a lot from a book even if it’s not directly tied to a lesson or nonfiction. When you read a novel and put yourself in the characters’ shoes, it’s an amazing way to view the world. Enjoy and share!
Mysteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon
After watching the movie Wonder Boys which was based on Michael Chabon’s book, I had to indulge in a book that was set in the Oakland region of Pittsburgh where Beth and I went to school. Michael Chabon was a Pitt student so I definitely enjoyed supporting a local writer.
The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger
Obviously, this is a classic and that is why I stayed away from it for so long. I didn’t think I would enjoy any book considered a classic. But with the help of Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire”, I figured it was a safe bet to give it a shot. This book in particular is amazing at capturing the internal dialogue that we all encounter in life.
Since I loved the movie Fight Club so much, I figured I would give this book a shot. The book follows a character who follows all of the cultural norms so to speak and becomes a larger-than-life character. I really enjoyed this story, especially how it all ties together at the end.
that I just released. It’s a coming-of-age tale so to speak where I share a lot of mental health issues I faced after having a heart attack in 2015. I also detail how I changed my life around to lose 50 lbs. without trying!
