Books That Made a Difference

I subscribe to Oprah’s online newsletter but, truth be told, I rarely read it. Except maybe for the section “Books That Made a Difference.”

It’s interesting to learn about the books that celebrities have read and enjoyed. It gives a glimpse of how they are outside of the boob tube or the big screen. Somehow, knowing what they like to read humanizes them to us. At least to me.

It’s nice to know that celebrities are not just concerned about their own industry, or their looks. They don’t just look at fashion magazines, the latest weight loss fads, or interested in the best diet pills for women. They really do seek books that give them intellectual stimulation. They laugh at funny parts, and cry at sad ones too. Just like the rest of us.

Recently, they featured Rachel McAdams favorite books. Haruki Murakami’s Hardboiled Wonderland and the End of the World was number one on that list.

I’d first heard of this book, and Murakami, about 12 years ago from my Philosophy 1 teacher. It was one of the books he recommended us to review. I chose to read and review Sophie’s World instead. At the time, I didn’t feel ready to read Murakami. And for years after that I’d browse through bookstores, see Murakami titles, lust after them but then end up not buying.

Soon, I will conquer you Murakami. And I’ll start with this title.

Have you read Hardboiled Wonderland and the End of the World ?