Publisher’s note: The Texas Lawbook is pleased to offer this column in partnership with Texas-based Half Price Books sharing our readers’ favorite reads. “My Five Favorite Books” will publish every other Wednesday. Please email brooks.igo@texaslawbook.net for more information.
I have always loved reading. My grandmother, an English teacher, read to me as a child and introduced me to Anne of Green Gables and Bridge to Terabithia, sparking my passion for books. When I met my husband, named “Read” of all things, in law school, my family joked we had no choice but to marry. After more than 20 years together, my love for both him and reading remains strong.
When I was asked to write this article, two thoughts immediately came to mind. First, I wondered how I would possibly narrow my list down to just five books, given the countless stories that have shaped me over the years. Second, I found myself considering what it is about reading that consistently draws me in. In a world filled with constant content and endless distractions, picking up a book offers a sense of escape and peace that few other activities can provide. Reading also fulfills my deep-seated desire for continuous learning. Books allow me to step into new worlds, explore fresh ideas, and gain insights into perspectives different from my own. Through reading, I find myself growing intellectually and emotionally, experiencing stories that broaden my understanding and appreciation for the diversity of human experience.
While I gravitate toward fiction, I do enjoy mixing in leadership and business books to challenge myself and broaden my perspective, but I won’t stray from fiction for too long, as I am convinced that even the lightest works of fiction offer valuable insights.
After much reflection, I have selected my five favorite books for this list. Each of these works has moved me profoundly, resonating with me on a personal level. They all share themes that have shaped my outlook and contributed to my understanding of myself and the world. These books are not just stories I enjoyed; they are narratives that have significantly influenced and informed my life experiences.
Pride and Prejudice – Among the classics, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice remains my all-time favorite. While I could easily create an entire series about my beloved works of classic literature, I always return to this novel. What draws me in is its subtlety. The way Austen evokes deep emotion with such a delicate touch. As I reflect on why this book resonates with me, I realize it’s largely because of Elizabeth Bennet’s independence. In an era when women were expected to marry young, and with her own mother and society having seemingly given up on her, Elizabeth stayed true to herself. She inherently understood her own independence, cherished her love of books, and thrived on intellectually stimulating conversations. She never felt pressured to conform to expectations. Of course, it’s also satisfying that everything works out in the end, with Elizabeth and Darcy happily uniting. From the very first time I read this book, I knew that Elizabeth was a kindred spirit for me, a sentiment that intentionally nods to Anne of Green Gables for those who might catch the reference. Click here to purchase.
I am Charlotte Simmons – Tom Wolfe’s I Am Charlotte Simmons stands out to me as a memorable coming-of-age novel. I was drawn in by Wolfe’s sharp wit and his ability to precisely capture the essence of college life in the early 2000s. While I wouldn’t call Charlotte a kindred spirit in the same way that I do Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice, I found her journey relatable in many ways. Charlotte’s struggle to adjust to the challenges of a large, diverse university mirrored my own experience, having grown up on a dairy farm in a town of 4,000 people. Stepping onto Baylor’s campus where I knew not a soul was a significant transition for me. While I now have a greater context in which to place Waco, at eighteen it might as well have been Manhattan, or Oz. Navigating those early days away from home made me appreciate just how daunting it can be to leave the nest and start anew. Click here to purchase.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban – While I have great appreciation for the entire Harry Potter series, if I had to choose a favorite, it would be book three, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Much like the classics, I could easily write another top five list dedicated solely to my favorite fantasy series. What makes the Harry Potter series stand out to me are the relationships that unfold throughout the books. I am especially fond of Harry’s enduring friendships with Ron and Hermione, as well as the unique relationship he shares with Dumbledore, who often serves as both a mentor and a father figure, even if this dynamic isn’t always obvious. However, what draws me most to this particular installment is the relationship Harry develops with Sirius Black. Beyond the enchanting world of Hogwarts and its magical adventures, this book delves into the complexities of human relationships. It explores the ongoing fight between good and evil and illustrates how both people and relationships can evolve and change. The overarching narrative throughout the series makes it clear that no one is entirely good or entirely evil, perhaps with the exception of Voldemort. I also like that the series avoids ending with an overly simple, happily-ever-after conclusion. The events are bittersweet and realistic, such as the loss of Dumbledore, which adds depth to the series. Click here to purchase.
Embracing Your Power: A Woman’s Guide to Authentic Leadership and Meaningful Relationships – Among the books that have shaped my personal and professional journey, this book by Marsha Clark holds a special place. Marsha has been more than an author to me. She has served as an inspiration, coach, and mentor throughout my career. I was fortunate to participate in her 2019 Women’s Leadership Program, a year-long experience that immersed me in the principles outlined in her book. At that stage in my career, I had earned a reputation as a technical expert and someone capable of delivering results. However, I recognized a gap in my skill set: the need to develop soft skills such as leadership, executive presence, networking, and team building. Marsha’s program, together with her book, provided insightful guidance on these essential abilities. Her teaching helped me understand the transformative impact of cultivating authentic leadership and building meaningful relationships within the workplace. If you are seeking to grow as a leader, I highly recommend Marsha Clark’s book. Click here to purchase.
Station Eleven left a lasting impression on me from the moment I first read it in 2025. Written by Emily St. John Mandel and published in 2014, the novel’s prescient depiction of a global pandemic resonates deeply, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. Although Mandel’s story predates the actual pandemic, it captures the initial emotions and uncertainty that many of us experienced in those early days, while taking the narrative in a much darker direction to a world where the virus is not contained and society as we know it collapses. I discovered Station Eleven at a time when enough years had passed since 2020 for me to reflect thoughtfully on that strange, challenging period. The story felt both haunting and cathartic, allowing me to process my own feelings about the pandemic through its pages. What truly stands out for me is the ending, where despite the darkness, there remains a faint flicker of hope. Mandel highlights the resilience and enduring strength of the human spirit, reminding readers that even in the most difficult circumstances, hope can survive and humanity can persevere. Click here to purchase.
I hope you find inspiration in this book list. More importantly, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the books that have inspired you throughout your life. Consider what these stories reveal about the values that matter most to you. By thinking about the narratives that resonate with you, you may discover new insights into your own beliefs and passions. Happy reading.
Kristen Cook is the Chief Legal Officer, Executive Vice President, and Corporate Secretary of The Brink’s Company, a global leader in cash and valuables management, secure logistics, and security-related services.
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Leigha Simonton’s reading list inspired by her secret hobby of advising high-school seniors (and younger students) about college admissions.
Five books that never fail to make Shamoil Shipchandler laugh.
A Veterans Day themed list that taught Brett Govett valuable lessons on sacrifice and leadership.
A handful of books that have stayed with Melanie Koltermann long after the final chapter.
Kelly Turner’s favorite reads from the past two years.