Book Reviews
FIVE BOOKS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE
After recently writing a bit on Brad Pitt’s recent change in religion, I have been touched by everyone’s passionate views regarding their own feelings on the subject. I think that is one thing I love the most in life. Passion. You know that deep feeling that makes you care about something in a way that takes your breathe away. After contemplating about my religious view and how others perceive religion in a skewed manner, I thought I would share with you my top FIVE influential books that helped shape my moral code on my own unique journey. Here they are:
The Power of Positive thinking is considered by some to be one of the first ‘self-help’ books ever written. In my mid-twenties, my Grandmother Lula sent this book to me during a time I was searching for deeper answers to life. Originally from the mid-west, I associated the Bible more with ‘fire and brimstone and that hardcore side that gives us those cheesy T.V. images of evangelists on Sunday morning. Why this book is so important for anyone to read is because NVP links psychology, prayer and highlights the positive words from the Bible, which I rarely heard growing up in Missouri. “ACT AS IF” and it shall be. A simple thought that still helps me when I need to change my thoughts away from the negativity. Not only does he incorporate philosophy, he shares first hand stories that are fun to read, then recaps the end of each chapter with lessons to help you change your life.
Trust me, this book is a must for anyone. I am grateful I had such a wonderful Grandmother that cared enough to help me during a time of need.
#2
A Course In Miracles. Read on Google the backs-story on how this book came to the shelves our lives and founded an institution called “A Foundation for Inner Peace.” This book is told from the stand point that reveals all of the secrets of the Bible. The basic message is “Return to Love”, which Marianne Williamson so adequately translates this deep intensive read simply for the masses. #3
This book outlines the basic message for you to comprehend and to follow. If you have gone through a recent break-up, need direction or comfort, this book is a self healing novel that makes you believe in the power of love. #4 As a Man Thinketh, by James Allen
“Dreamers are the Saviors of the World.” This simple, yet succint book on how our inner thoughts shape our daily lives nails the basic fundamental principles of a good ethic upbringing. Not only does this book lay out moral code, it also inspires you to believe in your dreams. I will never forget lying in bed in Santa Barbara over Thanksgiving weekend when I read that fabulous line: “Dreamers are the SAVIORS of the world.” Amen. #5 
My fifth book I would like to mentiono–The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People has gained much notoriety over the years.
Covey’s breakdown on interdependent relationships and how what we think can influence our daily relationships taught me how to interact better in social and work settings. This book has the theory of writing down your life mission, which can help a person find more stability with their goals and dreams. If I had to chose one, It would be Norman Vincent Peale, and that’s why he’s my favorite all time author.
Machel Penn
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