Books have always been my sanctuary—a place to learn, grow, and escape. They’ve introduced me to new ideas, nudged me out of my comfort zone, and sometimes even helped me make sense of life’s chaos.
Now, as a mom of four little ones, reading has become...well, let’s just say it’s not the leisurely activity it once was. What used to take me an afternoon now takes weeks, thanks to snack demands, diaper changes, and a steady stream of “Mommy, watch this!” moments. But despite the interruptions, I treasure those rare, quiet moments with a good book—even if it’s just one uninterrupted paragraph at a time.
I owe my love for books—and my children’s love for reading—to my mom. For the past few years, she’s made it her mission to buy each of us a book every month. Her passion for nurturing a love of reading in my kids has truly paid off, and she’s instilled in them the same excitement for stories and learning that she gave me as a child. She also knows that any extra funds I come across usually go to my kids, so her thoughtful gesture of buying a book for me each month is one of the many ways she supports this momma on her journey of raising little ones.
Today, I’m sharing a few of the books that have had the most profound impact on my life. There are many more that deserve a place on this list, but this is just the beginning. These books arrived at just the right time, meeting me in seasons of growth, challenge, and transformation.
1. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Why It Mattered:
This book taught me the art of connection—how to listen deeply, understand others, and navigate relationships with grace and authenticity. It helped me see the power of empathy and shifted the way I communicate, not just in friendships but in parenting too.
Grab your copy of How to Win Friends and Influence People on Amazon https://amzn.to/4jbw1BR
2. Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
Why It Mattered:
This book changed the way I view mindfulness, purpose, and detachment. It helped me create space for peace amid chaos (a skill every mom needs) and inspired a transformational moment in my marriage, sparking deeper communication and connection.
Grab your copy of Think Like A Monk on Amazon https://amzn.to/4h645h0
3. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Why It Mattered:
The “morning pages” exercise from this book has been a total game-changer for me. Carving out time to write has unlocked creativity I didn’t even know I had. Fun fact: this blog wouldn’t exist without it. (Side note: I haven’t finished the book yet because, you know, *four kids. But what I’ve read so far has been life-changing!)
Get your copy of The Artist’s Way on Amazon https://amzn.to/3PCtfrL
4. Babywise by Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam
Why It Mattered:
Sleep training—need I say more? This book gave me the tools to create healthy sleep habits for my kids, which was a gift for our entire family. Four kids, four completely different personalities, but one consistent result: sleep!
Get your copy of Babywise on Amazon https://amzn.to/4j94Ibv
5. The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Why It Mattered:
This book reshaped how I view happiness and resilience. Its insights on finding joy in the face of life’s inevitable challenges were nothing short of transformative. The heartfelt stories and laughter shared between these two icons reminded me that joy isn’t the absence of struggle but the ability to find light within it. It’s a book I return to whenever I need a dose of perspective, gratitude, or hope.
Get your copy of The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World
on Amazon https://amzn.to/3PvAOk9
Why Books Matter So Much
Books have a way of finding us when we need them most. They nudge us out of comfort zones, hold us accountable, and remind us we’re not alone in our struggles. Sometimes they’re a mirror; other times, they’re a window into entirely new possibilities.
If you’re looking for a book to inspire or transform you, start with these. And if you’ve read something that’s changed your life, I’d love to hear about it in the comments or on social media.
Your Turn
What’s a book that’s changed the way you see the world? What lessons have you carried forward because of it? Let’s build a list of life-changing books together—because sometimes, all it takes is the right book at the right time.
Until next time,
Kelly
Affiliate Earnings Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
These commissions help support this blog and allow me to continue sharing insights, resources, and inspiration with you. Rest assured, I only recommend books and products that I truly believe in and that have positively impacted my life.
Thank you for your support—it means the world to me and helps keep this momma’s dream alive! ❤️
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