The books that shaped my life

For Whom the Bell Tolls, Ernest Hemingway
A captivating book about a young American, Robert Jordan, who takes up the fight against fascism in the Spanish Civil War. Reading this one, you're transported into the world of the hero and it gives you a glimpse of the courage to fight for what's right, no matter the cost. It was my first Hemingway novel and it got me hooked.

Let's Go Europe, Harvard Student Agencies
This book was my travel bible at university, as I spent my 20th summer travelling and camping across 11 European countries. It sounds like an odd book to get attached to, but it was my constant companion for three months and helped me make better sense of all the places and monuments that I had only read or dreamed about.

Atonement, Ian McEwan
A great story with unexpected twists, this novel's set in aristocratic England and highlights the consequences of seemingly small lies, and how one can be trapped by one's own words. A powerful reminder to hold on to truth and quickly correct one's course when a mistake is made.

The End of Faith, Sam Harris
A controversial book that looks at the link between religion and violence. Harris is not bashful of attacking those who believe their means are justified by some divine force. It's a brave take on a subject considered to be too sensitive.