In my humble opinion, books have the ability to transport us from the world we live in to a world carefully and precisely designed and thought out. When reading a book, you imagine what the characters look like, you form opinions on their personalities, and you somehow establish a bond with a story that could be complete fiction. The novels I have read in my life have shaped me into the person I am today, or at least they have entertained me. These are the books that have influenced me. Someday, I’d like my daughter to read these, as well:

1. My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult

This book is on the sadder side but not without an amazing story attached. This story is about a little girl who was born to be a donor to her sister with cancer. This book is full of twists and turns and makes you feel a rollercoaster of emotion. It empowers young ladies, as well shows them how to be strong and fight.

2. It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini

This is a great book for teens, especially those struggling with the overwhelming tasks of a teenager. It shows that it’s okay to get stressed and more than okay to ask for help.

3. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

This book, now also a Netflix series, is a very important story. It details the hardships of a girl throughout high school, but the point of view is actually from a set of cassette tapes left for the people she claims “had a part in her suicide.” This story is both serious and intriguing, and teen suicide is a huge theme to be aware of while reading.

4. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

This book is one of my favorites. It tells the story of a housemaid in Mississippi, who works all day for a white family. She raises the children, cooks, cleans, and serves all in a day’s work. Her fellow friends and she think it’s time some things should change—and they’re going to be the ones to do it.

5. The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

We all love a good dog book. This book tells the story from the point of view of a family dog, Enzo. It’s sad at times, but makes for a great story. This one is a must-read.

6. The Glass Kitchen: A Novel of Sisters by Linda Francis Lee

This story is a lighthearted, easy read. It’s the story of a young girl who has powers to tell what food people are craving. While some may see that as a blessing, she feels it's a curse until she embraces her abilities and begins using them to her advantage.

7. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This story just warms your heart. It’s about a boy named August, who was born with serious medical issues that after many surgeries have left him somewhat deformed. Throughout the whole book, you find yourself rooting for him as he takes the place of the beloved “underdog.” As for what happens, you’ll just have to read it to find out.

8. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

“This is a heart-wrenching, unflinching story of love shared, life lived, and two teens who find one another while standing on the edge.” -- Random House

9. The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom

“It follows the life and death of a maintenance man named Eddie. In a heroic attempt to save a little girl from being killed by an amusement park ride that is about to fall, Eddie is killed and sent to heaven, where he encounters five people who had a significant impact upon him while he was alive.” -- Taste Dive

10. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

This is a children’s classic. It tells the story of unusual friendship and explores what it means to be a friend. This is a must-read not only for children but for adults, as well (if you haven’t already read it!).

11. Tuesday’s with Morrie by Mitch Albom

This book is actually a memoir written by Mitch Albom, with words from his 78-year old sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz. Morrie suffers from ALS and the story between the two of them is amazing and so incredible to read.

12. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

“The Book Thief centers on the life of Liesel Meminger, a ten to fourteen-year-old in Germany during World War II. Liesel's experiences are narrated by Death, who describes both the beauty and destruction of life in this era.” -- Taste Dive

13. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume

“The novel explores her quest for a single religion. Margaret also confronts typical issues faced by pre-teen girls going through puberty, such as buying her first bra, having her first period, and feeling attracted to certain boys.” -- Like 2 Do

14. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

This is a book of empowerment. Cline allows you to explore the world he creates for you and allows you to relish in all it has to offer. You must use your imagination and think the way “Player One” would.

15. Where the Sidewalk Ends: The Poems and Drawings of Shel Silverstein by Shel Silverstein

This is a children’s poetry book, but not simply of numbers and colors. It is one of lessons and thought provoking ideas. It depicts a deeper side of childhood questions and deeper meaning of what it is to be a kid.

16. Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

This is a classic, and if your English teacher didn’t make you read it be sure to read it yourself. This book explores what it means to be a misunderstood teenager, in a world where you feel like no one understands. It could be a safe place for teens going through tough times. Remember, to my daughter who I want to read this, “Mothers are all slightly insane.”

17. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

This book is a thriller. You might be wondering why it’s on this list, but I think it holds a good message in between the lines. While a little crazy, the main character holds morals I’d want my daughter to have: independence, confidence, and perseverance (if you spin it the right way).

18. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

“…It tells the story of Amir, a young boy from the Wazir Akbar Khan district of Kabul, whose closest friend is Hassan, his father's young Hazara servant. The story is set against a backdrop of tumultuous events, from the fall of Afghanistan's monarchy through the Soviet military intervention, the exodus of refugees to Pakistan and the United States, and the rise of the Taliban regime.” -- Paperclip Magazine

19. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

“The story is told as a series of memories by Jacob Jankowski, a 93-year-old man who lives in a nursing home. Jacob is told what to eat and what to do.” To find out more, you’ll just have to read the book!

20. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

“It is a love story about a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel unpredictably, and about his wife, an artist, who has to cope with his frequent absences and dangerous experiences. Niffenegger, frustrated in love when she began the work, wrote the story as a metaphor for her failed relationships.” -- Facebook

21. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

I am incredibly biased to this book. My mom used to read it to me every night before I went to bed. This is a classic and a great book for all kids.