Most important books you've read

[seataccat]

You guys putting the federalist papers crack me up. I have actually read the federalist papers and didn't get a whole lot out of it. There are way way better reads about reasons to ratify the constitution.

I cant believe that "into thin air" and "the long walk" would exactly qualify as the most important books i've ever read. If you are looking for historical entertainment read "endurance" or "frozen in time: the fate of the Franklin expedition".

I think the topic is about what books each person finds meaningful to HIMSELF. I don't recall being asked to pass judgment on others' choices. Keep your disparaging remarks to yourself.

Sir yes sir!!

And... regarding the criticism of listing "Into Thin Air"... I'll also point out that I also listed "Endurance" as you recommend, in case you missed it.

I think people misunderstood me. I wasn't criticizing any of the books especially "into thin air" it was an awesome book.

[LTown Cat]

The best book I've read recently is Tony Dungy's "Quiet Strength".

That is a good one.

The best I've read though is Heir to a Dream--the Pete Maravich story.

Also, I haven't read these since I was young but they still left an impression:
Hatchet
Bridge to Terabithia

[TomCat88]

The text book for Physics 101(?) (now called ASTR 110IN) Introduction to Astronomy: "Mysteries of the Sky" at Montana State University. Made the most dramatic change in the way I think of life. I can't watch or read anything about space w/o flashing back to that class.

Honorable mention: Any texts/documents on geology and evolution. These are just as strong, but Mysteries of the Sky came first.

[wbtfg]

Perhaps the most important book under 30 pages I've read is "If the World Were a Village". Great read for everyone from 3rd (or so) grade up to adulthood.

[hokeyfine]

"of mice and men"

my first introduction to "banned books" by my english teacher in high school. never really knew there was such a thing as "banned books" until this class. My kids are required to read all "banned books", Mye Angelou, Steinbeck, etc... It just blows me away the ending of The Grapes of Wrath when she suckles the starving man.