5 Books That Changed My Life

There are so many books that have touched my life, both in a fun, superficial way and on a deeper, life-changing level. Aside from the Bible, which has had the most impact on me, these are 5 of the top books that made an indelible impression on my heart, soul, and/or mind. You can click on the titles to read the official descriptions and see reviews on Amazon.

The Connected Child by Karyn Purvis

This book was recommended to me by a therapist specializing in adoption. I had no idea when I started it that it would have such great impact on my life. In addition to the therapeutic techniques the author offers, she helped me truly understand my kids in a new and more connected way. I can’t even begin to express how she changed the way I look at my kids. This book is especially helpful for adoptive parents, but I recommend it to any parent who would like to grow in their connection with their children. I truly believe this book should be required for anyone adopting a child, as it provides insights and understanding that I haven’t seen in any other book. If you are an adoptive parent, or thinking of adopting in the future, read this!

Loving Our Kids on Purpose: Making a Heart to Heart Connection by Danny Silk

Another incredible parenting book, I read this twice, and then got the audio version and listened to that over and over. Not kidding. I loved it that much. Even though I didn’t agree with everything 100%, the majority of the book spoke right to my heart and reminded me about having grace with my children and letting go of the idea that I need to “control” their behavior all the time. There were multiple times where I even said out loud, “Yes! That makes complete sense!” This book addresses the most important issue of all: where your child’s heart is, and where yours is, too.

The Paleo Solution: The Original Human Diet by Robb Wolf

This book is one of the main things that inspired me to start this blog! After Superman’s failing health, excessive food allergies and much discouragement, this is what I needed to read. Reading Robb’s story about his parents, health ailments and how he came to the realization that there was something to the whole “original human diet,” I had an “aha!” moment and I’ve never looked back. Robb does an incredible job of breaking down why eating this way is so beneficial, and making the task of changing your diet seem much less overwhelming. If you are starting out on your Paleo journey, or are just curious what the Paleo lifestyle is about, I highly suggest this book.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver

Before we officially changed our diet, I read this book and was so enraptured by Barbara’s devotion to her family’s health and truly experiencing life. Her “experiment,” if you will, was to live an entire year living and eating locally. The results are amazing! Reading about their family during the “feast and famine” of living on only local food is inspiring, motivating and riddled with moments of raw emotion. It was this book that got me thinking about eating local, fresh foods more often, growing a garden, and just really trying to focus on living life more simply. An easy, enjoyable read, I recommend this to anyone and everyone!

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God by Francis Chan

Oh, where do I even start? How about here: “…the answer to religious complacency isn’t working harder at a list of do’s and don’ts–it’s falling in love with God. And once you encounter His love, as Francis Chan describes it, you will never be the same. Because when you’re wildly in love with someone, it changes everything.” Sigh. This book addresses the deep need we have for God, the intense love He has for us, and how that love is something life-changing and invigorating. This love is not something we earn, but is a gift given to us. Francis’ writing is entertaining and inspiring, and you will fly through this book! Great book for new believers as well as lifelong Christians who want to reignite their faith.

And I’m throwing this book in as a bonus:

The Kosher Sutra: Eight Sacred Secrets for Reigniting Desire and Restoring Passion for Life by Rabbi Schmuley Boteach

I know it’s a little taboo to discuss sex, but this book is just too good not to share. It came to me as a recommendation from a friend, and now I share it with you! “Our over-exposure to sex has diluted the most powerful form of intimacy to such an extent that most couples have forgotten what passion feels like.” Rabbi Boteach shares his insights on true intimacy in marriage, restoring passion and how God intends for a marriage relationship to be in the bedroom. Again, I didn’t necessarily agree 100% with everything written in this book, but nearly all of it was good, solid advice on connecting on a deeper level with your spouse. If you’re looking to reignite that spark, check out this book!

Now, you tell me: what books have shaped your life?