John Marrs is at the top of the list because each of his books has left a mark on my soul. Dramatic, I know. But if you haven’t read anything by him, you need to—massive trigger warning for The Good Samaritan, for Suicide. If you want to explore his work without such a bleak topic, you could start with his most recent release The Marriage Act.

I bet you’re thinking, why would The Divine Comedy get stuck in my head? As a former Theologian and recovering Christian, I found this book fascinating. Dante paints a beautifully delicate picture of Hell, Heaven, and Purgatory. The imagery described in this book comes to me in snarky comments, and I often wonder what it would be like to be his companion on this journey.

Siddhartha was the first book I read after leaving the church. A friend, who had long since left the Christian faith, read this and recommended it. I cannot describe how healing this book was at that time. I did not know there was a possible joy outside of what I knew for so long.

Under The Dome and I have an interesting history; this is the first 1K page book I have ever read. It took me over 3 months to read the first 100 pages. After the introductions, I finished the book in 5 days. This book stuck with me because I like to think about what my life would be like if I had to rely solely on the community around me to ensure my survival. I am not made for that type of unity.

First Person Plural was probably the first non-fiction book I read on purpose. I am unsure how I found this book, but I read it, and Cameron’s story always stuck with me. His system and this book were my introduction to DID, and it helped humanize people with mental illness for me. I was quite young when I read this, and I had such a limited view of the world. This book helped me become an active advocate for people who live with mental illness, including myself.

The Mortal Instruments was one of the first series I got hooked on from the first book. Cassie Clare does a great job with this series, and I own all of the books in the Shadowhunter world. If you are looking for a steampunk paranormal story, jump into the Shadowhunter world.

Warsan Shire is am amazing poet. I felt seen after reading her works.

There was a two-year period of time when I recommended this book to everyone that I ran into. Such a Fun Age is a coming-of-age tale that sticks with you.

Girl in Translation stuck with me because of children’s innocence and strength and ability to preserver in the toughest situations. This book was inspiring and raw.

As the DUFF in many groups, I loved this teenage romance. It just really resonated with me.

I think about this book whenever I see someone who looks like me. I think, what if we swapped places? Would anyone notice? Would anyone care to examine the differences between us? I often think of the possibility along with my invisibility. Would anyone notice if I was gone? The answer is yes, obviously…….

This book was pretty funny; and a great glimpse into African culture.

If you want to daydream while reading a book, this one will help you. Nnedi paints such vivid pictures with her words. You can put yourself in the world she has written easily.

There are at least two movies based on this book; the book is better.

Sookie. This series is great until the last book. If you were a fan of True Blood, you should check out this series; however, like the last season of the show. The last book is total garbage.

Chuck Palahniuk could probably start his own cult, and I’d be a member. His books are depraved, and well written, and I will always hold a space in my heart for Survivor.

When I first read The Vampire Academy, I thought it would be similar to Twilight. I was wrong, and I am so glad I was. I devoured both series and I wish there were more books.

Richard Matheson’s collection of short stories is unforgettable—specifically Button, Button.

My favorite book by Matheson is What Dreams May Come. This book is haunting and beautiful. This is the afterlife I dream of.

Last but not least, the first Science Fiction book I have ever read was The Andromeda Strain. I loved this book because it kick-started my love for all things Sci-Fi.