Books that have shaped me

The books listed here are some of my favorites, for varying reasons. Some have influenced my work directly. Others have influenced my life personally in the areas of [list].

• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
I return to this book for [voice, structure, emotional impact, worldbuilding, etc.]. It reminds me that [thing it taught you].

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
This book changed how I think about [theme, character, form, or genre], especially [specific element].

• Story Genius by [Author]
I admire how this book [does something specific], and I often think about it when I’m struggling with [problem in your own work].