Stories leave marks that science can measure. Studies in psychology show that reading fiction can increase empathy by helping us step into another person’s perspective, while nonfiction often sharpens critical thinking through exposure to evidence and argument. From childhood fairy tales to modern novels and case studies, books act as both mirrors and windows—reflecting our own experiences and opening doors to new ones. As George R.R. Martin once wrote, “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.” But what exactly makes certain books resonate so deeply that they change how we think, act, or even live? This expert roundup explores how different readers have answered that question.
Table of Contents
Frankenstein Teaches Ambition Balanced with Moral Responsibility
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein made a lasting impression on my perspective towards ambition and responsibility. The novel illustrates that uncontrolled curiosity and fear of the unknown have their costs, and that thorough planning and moral implementation are imperative in any pursuit.
The book is also about human nature. The actions of the main character illustrate that skill and planning are essential when dealing with powerful forces, whether literal or symbolic. It brought to mind that careful planning can ward off errors and bring about desired results.
Lastly, Frankenstein emphasizes resilience. Creator and created both experience obstacles, learn, and evolve. It reaffirmed the fact that ambition, tempered with caution, can bring about mastery and change.
Sam Rock, CEO, Infinity Laser Spa
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Hill House Reveals Internal Fear Trumps External Threats
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson had an unexpected impact on me. Psychological tension has always unnerved me more than overt shocks, and this book capitalized on that. What occurs when your own mind turns against you was the source of the fear, not ghosts. I’ve had times in my life where self-doubt or overanalyzing felt more burdensome than any outside obstacle, so it stuck with me.
It altered my perspective on resiliency. Finding balance while your mind is racing is more important to me than being tough all the time. Maintaining perspective, staying grounded, and resisting the urge to let fear change your reality. I strive to maintain that kind of strength.
Alec Loeb, VP of Growth Marketing, EcoATM
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The Exorcist Confronts Evil and Tests Faith
A horror book that I can never forget is; The Exorcist, by William Peter Blatty. I was frightened by the freezing atmosphere and making me wonder whether evil exists and whether faith can help to defeat it. Some of the things that have remained with me after reading the book include the way the book talks about fear, the human nature or characters, and the strength. It demonstrated to me that I should be more conscious of my own fears and that I should not undermine the tenacity of the human mind, in combating these fears. I still get goosebumps when I just think of reading it as many years ago as it was. It actually goes to the effect that whenever I pass by a set of stairs at night, I remember the scenes described in this book, it is haunting.
Keith Sant, Founder & CEO, Kind House Buyers
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Green Mile Shatters Naive Views of Justice
Not a horror story in the traditional sense, Stephen King’s The Green Mile terrified me as a compulsive teenage reader. I had a clear understanding of good and evil, with reward and punishment neatly dished out. This broke my immature naivety and forced me to confront a world where a spiritual servant becomes a lightning rod for hate, and I wondered whether I would have also pulled the lever if I were in Paul Edgecomb’s position. The story challenged this worldview, leaving an unsettling tension in the pit of my stomach as I wondered whether there was a God and what that meant for us mortals
Jeremy Golan SHRM-CP, CPHR, Bachelor of Management, HR Manager, Virtual HR Hub
About ‘What Experts Read’
In our unique series, ‘What Experts Read,’ discover the literary inspirations and must-reads of thought leaders and industry experts. Each article highlights the books that have impacted the viewpoints, tactics, and success of successful entrepreneurs and seasoned leaders in their respective areas.
Discover a wide range of sectors, including technology, finance, healthcare, and more, as professionals share their best book suggestions and talk about the significant influence these reads have had on their careers. Discover priceless information, expand your horizons, and gain insightful knowledge from experts at the forefront of their fields.
‘What Experts Read’ is an insightful look at the relationship between knowledge, experience, and the written word, and it may be of interest to anybody looking for motivation, strategic advice, or just to learn more about the reading preferences of prominent industry figures. Join us for this insightful tour of the most important leaders’ bookshelves of today.
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nice
Interesting question—some books linger because they tap into our emotions, challenge our beliefs, or show us something we didn’t know we needed.