Acquiring wisdom is a sought after, but difficult task. To paraphrase a quote from Liu Kang: “Day by day nothing changes, but when we look back, nothing is the same.”

It’s tough to know which work of art can change your perspective. So many of the things that alter us enter our lives in unexpected ways. Whether it be a book that you found in a bargain bin or a film that you caught when flipping through the channels, the questions to life’s greatest answers are hidden all around us. Here are some novels that have changed my way of thinking and I hope they change yours too.

 

Hop On Pop! by Dr. Seuss

In this fantastic adventure of an alien world, Sigourney Weaver leads a rag-tag crew in this epic thriller. Occupying alien worlds, embarking on memorable characters, and coming face-to-face with the famous Xenomorph, Hop On Pop is a book that will forever occupy the minds of readers for years to come. Want to witness a nightmare that you’ll never want to forget? Well then here’s the next book on your list.

 

Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

This classic story takes us on a wacky thrill-ride. A day where the “sun did not shine. [Where] it was too wet to play. so [the children] sat in the house all that cold, cold, wet day.”

When things go awry in this zany and rhyming short story, normal just becomes another forgotten concept. It reminds us of what it means to be kids, when there were no responsibilities beyond when the next time for play would be. It asks us what it means to be children, even when one or two things try to mess it up. A classic tale for all ages that is sure to be enjoyed going into the future.

 

The Holy Bible

Regardless of religious beliefs, this is a book that has transformed the world we live in. A belief system that began as a small radical movement within the Roman Empire, one day became its official religion. A book that has been at the cornerstone of history for ages. Its value system that it brought to humanity is so transient in western culture that we tend to forget its origins . Although the text may feel dated and awkward to read, a basic understanding of this book is crucial to get a glimpse into the world we live in. To better explain our basic cultural makeup. This book should be read by all young adults, even if their personal belief system clashes against it.