A Copy Writer Talks About Her 5 Favorite Books of All Time

Did you know that the favorite past time of most writers is actually reading? It could be because writers love to experience the written word from other perspectives. It’s challenging to pick up the subtle nuances and find inspiration in others’ writing. Or, it may be a way to temporarily escape reality – who knows? Very often, when I am not busy writing some web copy or brainstorming with a client on a marketing startegy, I am hanging out with my husband, Eugean, at our favorite bookstore reading a great book!

So…without further ado, here are my 5 Favorite Books of All Time!

Stephen King’s “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft”

In 2000, every hopeful writer ran out to buy a copy of the “Master’s” book on his rise to fame as a Horror-Fantasy writer. I was working full time as a human resources manager at the time and writing a few pieces here and there. I remember reading this book in my car during my lunch breaks, laughing and crying at the same time when I heard the story of how King struggled as a new writer – then later cheering when he recanted his tale of “Christine” and how he felt when he got his first big check! This book still has an important place on my bookshelf, where I reach for it when I need some inspiration.

Dorothy Perrin Moore’s “Careerpreneurs”

I love Careerpreneurs, written by Emeritus Professor Dorothy Perrin Moore, of Charleston’s own Citadel. This gem of a career book caught my attention when I was venturing into starting my own business as a Charleston copy writer. What intrigued me was that Prof. Moore focused in on the female entrepreneur population and how we are shaping the future of careers for women everywhere. If you are looking for inspiration and resources for starting a business, you will find it in this book!

Ralph de la Vega’s “Obstacles Welcome”

This book literally flew off the shelf when I first noticed it. For good reason, as it tells the personal story of Ralph de la Vega who went from being a kid in Cuba to becoming the CEO of At&t Mobility. He did this by holding fast to his BIG dream and never giving up on his personal principles. I found this book to be a great read, still refering to it when I have one of those moments of doubt. I highly recommend this to anyone who is struggling in any area of a career or business.

Linda Gray Sexton’s “Searching for Mercy Street”

A few years back, whilst browsing through a local bookstore looking for a great book for my summer vacation, I stumbled upon this interesting book written by Linda Gray Sexton, daughter of famous poet Anne Sexton. The book shares a very painful, yet triumphant story of the relationship between Linda and Anne, and how it shaped Linda’s writing career. I’ve read the book several times, and each time I find something new that makes me stop and think. Anyone who has had a difficult relationship with a parent should read this book, to let the healing begin.

Madeleine L’Engle’s “A Wrinkle in Time”

As a child, I spent countless hours pondering the universe and trying to make sense of the world. Being able to go on a journey in my mind by discovering a new book in my great grand-mother’s library was a treat. That’s where I found Madeleine L’Engle’s “A Wrinkle in Time” waiting for me. The tale of Meg trying to save her little brother Charles Wallace and their father from unseen evil was my first foray into Science Fiction. To this day, the concept of time and it’s mysteries still has an affect on me. If you have young minds eager to explore the wonders of reading, I recommend the entire series of L’ Engles’ books!

So there you have it – a copy writers list of the top 5 books of all time! I hope you’ve enjoyed this and that you get a chance to explore some of the books here. Feel free to share your comments below!