Ten books that have changed my life

I related a lot with Esther Greenwood. In fact one of her quotes is my bio on a number of social sites - "I'll be flying back and forth between one mutually exclusive thing and another for the rest of my days." 
Although Sylvia Plath's story saddens me, she also inspires me.

The first time I read this book, I hated it.
I picked it up again after a couple of years, and I saw a kindred soul in Holden Caulfield. This cynical, moody young man who says a number of profound things unknowingly. Needless to say, this book 'killed me.'

How could this book not change my life? I grew up with Harry, had a true friend in Ron, wished to brilliant like Hermione and as I grew older, loved Sirius Black. This series is everything. It's made me who I am and this is one fandom I'll never outgrow.

This book is an experience. If you say you remain unchanged after reading this book, you're lying. The Fountainhead made me realize a great number of things about myself and about my work and the way I perceive the world. A masterpiece, truly.

A tale of four young girls coming of age - Little Women has in some ways help me become the person I am today. I related to all of the girls in some way or the other.

Oh how this book thrilled me when I was younger. The fact that a 10 year old girl could take charge and create a fortress to assure the safety of the other children was as inspiring as could ever be! Plus I also love post-apocalyptic stories. A must read by every young kid, and in fact even every adult.

The Kite Runner moved me like no other book. A tale of friendship, loyalty, betrayal and an attempt at seeking mercy - it simply heart-rending.

Love love love this book. John Green is my favourite author of current times and he does not, in any way, disappoint with Paper Towns. The quirky humour, the metaphors, the beautiful individual characters - this book left me smiling for a long time after I finished it.

Pride and Prejudice probably features in every single reader's list of favourite books. Who doesn't love Lizzie and Mr. Darcy, who doesn't have fondness in their hearts for Jane and Mr. Bingley, who doesn't laugh heartily at Mr. Collins and who doesn't curse Mr. Wickham! A marvel, indeed.

Lolita was an eye-opener. Nabokov's almost lyrical style of writing entranced me and I found myself drawn to this book despite the unnerving subject.