8 Must-Read Books

Finding a book that truly touches your heart is like discovering a rare and valuable treasure. In the past, maybe you’ve come across the perfect read while casually perusing your favorite bookstore or through a recommendation from a friend. Today, look no further, because we’ve put together a list that’s chock-full of special books.

While we all have different tastes, there are some books that leave their mark on almost anyone who reads them. Here’s our list of must-read titles.

1. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. A psychiatrist who suffered first hand the horrors of life in a Nazi concentration camp during World War II, Frankl found strength in thinking about his loved ones in other camps who would be waiting for him when the war ended. Although sadly he was not reunited with his family members, Frankl’s experience in the camps gave him a newfound understanding of his life’s meaning. In this book, he shares not only his story but also a theory which can help all of us find strength during difficult times. We can all benefit from the powerful life lessons in Frankl’s book.
2.  Siddhartha by Herman Hesse. With the publication of his novel about a man named Siddhartha and his path to enlightenment, Herman Hesse became an idol among young people of his own generation and those that followed. While it’s not about a biography of the Buddha, Hesse definitely took inspiration from the Buddha’s life story. The story critiques mankind’s pride and individualism, but also points to the latent spiritual potential that we all have inside ourselves and how to uncover it.
3. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. A book that’s been sold in 150 countries. A character that travels far from his home on a journey full of adventure and misfortune in search of a treasure, only to finally find that the treasure he sought was at home all along. It’s a novel that will make you think.
4. Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder. Without a doubt, philosophy and psychology are inextricably connected in many ways. Gaarder’s book explores the history of philosophy through the story of a young girl, Sophie, and the middle-aged philosopher who attempts to teach her about life through philosophy. Both a best seller and a fixture on high school required reading lists, Gaarder’s book helps us understand ourselves more fully as human beings.
5. Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman. “Emotional intelligence” became a buzzword with the publication of Goleman’s book in 1995, and its popularity hasn’t worn off. With essential insights into how to understand ourselves and others, this book helps us understand the link between emotions and learning. Reading this book will make you wonder about your own level of emotional intelligence, as well as show you how developing emotional intelligence can lead to greater happiness and allow you to see the events of your life through a different lens.
6. The Power of Optimism by Luis Rojas Marcos. In this book you’ll learn how optimism can help you through life’s many challenges. The author, a preeminent Spanish psychologist, has a knack for talking about our emotions and thoughts in a simple, uncomplicated way. Rojas Marcos’ unique voice — humble and calm while at the same time authoritative — is why we not only recommend his book but also suggest tuning in for his rare but always interesting television appearances.
7.  Overcome Panic and Anxiety by Linda Manassee Buell. In this book the author shares her experience dealing with panic and anxiety. Though short, it is packed full of helpful advice for anyone who is dealing with anxiety or who has loved ones who are suffering.
8.  Buddhist Meditation by Ramiro Calle. Studies have shown that there are various health benefits to regular meditation practice. For anyone interested in gaining a better understanding of meditation, Calle’s book is a helpful guide.