Continued from page 6

11. The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

The main character, Howard Roark, being safe and strong enough to be the outsider, to be the lone voice, is such a great metaphor for what, in one way, the [movie] business promotes and looks for, and in another way, doesn't allow. When somebody breaks out and completely shatters the mold, it's inspiring. It's scary to set off by yourself like that. But there are so many great books that I have yet to tap into. I think it's so unfortunate that they force you to read all the classics when you're a kid. I couldn't have cared less about Moby Dick when I had to read it. All I could think was, Look at the size of that book! These books are written by people who have experienced life, which, at that age, you have not yet experienced. Honestly? I think there should be required reading for adults.

12. The Letter I Got the Day My Mom Died

My mom had been sick, and the friend who sent the letter obviously didn't know yet that she had died. It's just one of the sweetest notes, an inspiring observation. It's someone saying, "I love how brave you can be sometimes." I've never thought of myself as brave. I always think of myself as a big chicken, because so much scares me, but I'll face my fears just to say, "You're not going to beat me." The note is in my wallet. And when I'm thinking I am a big chickenshit, I see it and think, No, I am brave. The note reminds me that life is ups and downs, but I get something out of all of it.

previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7