The Eccentric Writer

According to Stephen King, to be a good writer, one must be a good reader. According to Lydia Blythe, this is absolutely true. Listed below are ten recommendations of books, short stories, and poetry that have affected me in my life and inspired my writing. 1. The Dreamer by Pam Muñoz Ryan This book holds a special place in my heart, because a copy was given to me by a local library when I was a runner-up in their writing contest. The author was a guest speaker at the awards ceremony, and I had the privilege of meeting her and having the book signed. The Dreamer is based on the life of the poet Pablo Neruda. It explores his childhood and the challenges he faced growing up of wanting to write poetry in a home where his dreams were not accepted. He came across many obstacles, but history speaks for itself - Neruda grew up to be a famous and successful poet. The book is about following one's dreams and staying true to oneself even when others do not accept what that self is. Beautiful...