We’re just on the edge of summer and I’m curious… have you read any good books lately? What did you like about the last book you read?

As one who writes books for a living, I’d like to share some interesting books I’ve found. I’m currently reading The Hopi Survival Kit, What Your Dreams Are Telling You, and When Scotland Was Jewish. History has taken on a new meaning since many of us are asking more questions.

Earlier this year, some of the most interesting books I’ve read were regarding our lost history, Evidence of the Old World by Jon Levi and David Edward. The evidence points to major cities in the United States being older than we’ve been told — not decades older but centuries older! Edward also happens to write thrilling serial fiction. Books so gripping I couldn’t put them down and read each one in a day. As one who reads a lot, that isn’t said lightly.

Have you ever heard or read a story that lingers in your head for a while? If I read something that leaves me feeling a little haunted, I find something upbeat—an essay, memoir, a blog post, even another book—to balance it. I make a point to end my day’s reading on a hopeful note. I not only sleep better but also wake up in a better frame of mind.

The right book can leave you feeling energized and ready to face the day. I just read Mary Lou Dobbs, Badass Old White Woman: Flip the Script on Aging because the title made me curious. She’s no-nonsense spitfire from beginning to end. I love her unique perspective. She doesn’t whine about getting older. She boldly proclaims “Aging is a frickin’ privilege!” She blends health shaping alternatives with motorcycle adventures and lessons learned. Largely for mature women, this “Badass Old White Woman” is not only an inspirational septuagenarian, she lives an exciting life! I aspire to be as healthy and filled with vitality at her age. I highly recommend this book if you’re in you’re late fifties, have recently retired, or have reached your limit of doing the expected aging dance.

An acquaintance recommended the astonishing memoir Becoming Superman by J. Michael Straczynski. One of his quotes struck me straight in the heart: “ Wouldn’t you rather make a thin living doing what you love that a slightly better living doing what you hate?” His ability to stick to his guns, and trust in what he held dear was cobbled together from a traumatic and horrific childhood, which galvanized him into one of the most motivating and lyrical story tellers across three mediums. It was so intense I read all 459 pages in two days.

A recently inspiring book was the Journey of Doaa Al Zamel, in a book written by Melissa Fleming, A Hope More Powerful Than the Sea. It details how one young lady coming of age during the ravages of the Syrian war, must face her biggest fear. In doing so she not only survives but unexpectedly saved the life of a small child. It is a story about the strength and perseverance of human spirit—the same spirit that lives in each one of us. Books like this provide me with strength and hope. Hope is something we need more of.

How does this impact you?

Sometimes, learning what it cost someone else to stay alive can inspire you. It reveals what we’re truly capable of in those moments — or months — of doubt. Inspirational stories can be the light unto your feet that pushes you to take just one more step. Then one more. Until you realize you’ve reached the other side of your own event.

There’s a saying, “If you’re going through hell, keep on going!” It might seem obvious that Hell is not the place to set up camp and live out the rest of your life. But there are reasons why it isn’t obvious to all. It might be the end of their strength. It might be the limit of what they trust. It might even be all they have ever known. Knowing how someone else survived can be a springboard for more ideas that help us persevere.

What is the most inspiring book you’ve read? What book reshaped your life? Please share your most recent favs in the comment box and I’ll see you soon.