Inspirational Books

INSPIRATIONAL BOOKS OF THE 21ST CENTURY

Just twenty years in, the 21st Century has already gifted us with so many inspirational pieces of literary work worthy of comment. So we’ve picked five books, of different styles and genres, which embody this overarching theme.

THE KITE RUNNER

KHALED HOSSEINI, 2003

This thriller, which became a New York Times Bestseller, focusses on the story of Amir, from childhood into adulthood, against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s political history. Centred around correcting the mistakes of his childhood, this story is based on the themes of guilt, bravery, and redemption, all against a dangerous, but all too real backdrop.

THE 4 HOUR WORK WEEK

TIMOTHY FERRISS, 2007

This New York Times Best Seller self-help book tears up the traditional ‘retirement plan’, in favour of increasing income and controlling one’s own working hours. In the most recent edition, the author recounts his own drastic changes to his working week, whilst also providing case studies of families who have used this method as a framework for their lives.

THE BOY IN THE DRESS

DAVID WALLIAMS, 2008

This children’s book, which has since been made into a play by the Royal Shakespeare Company, aims to break down gender barriers at a young age. Telling the story of Dennis, who enjoys cross-dressing, this novel informs youngsters that a hobby, such as this, is acceptable, and nothing to be ashamed of.

PROUD

GARETH THOMAS, 2015

In 2009, Gareth Thomas, the Welsh Rugby star, came out as the sport’s first openly homosexual player. In this autobiography released a few years later, Thomas recounts the guilt created by keeping his sexuality a secret within the context of a culture dominated by masculinity, and the dangers that revealing his true self might pose to his career, and his personal life.

WHY I’M NO LONGER TALKING TO WHITE PEOPLE ABOUT RACE

RENI EDDO-LODGE, 2018

This novel, which sparked international conversation, was originally a blog, focussing on how those who discussed racism in Britain were led by those who racism did not affect. In this novel, Eddo-Lodge explores racism throughout history, right up to what it is like to be a person of colour today. Such has been the positive reception since release, this novel has been used as a core material during the Black Lives Matter movement.