I'm not sure about changed my life but...
... one of my favourite books is A Million Little Pieces by James Frey.

The book is part fact part fiction about the authors time in rehab. There was some controversy about it, as he gained a huge following after it was first published, but many of his disciples thought it was 100% fact. When it transpired he had stretched the truth to make it a better read, they were less than happy. Newer editions have a cover note from the author explaining what changes he made and why he made them.

Anyhoo, I like the book for it's central theme, which is basically about the modern trend for people to blame their problems on other people or their past experiences. He believes people should except the fact that their problems are usually caused by their own choices, and if they except that, then they can change.

A conversation between James and a crack head might go something like this.

Crack head: I'm a crack head because my father used to beat me up and rape me.

James: No, you're a crack head because when you have a crack pipe in your hand, you make a decision to put it to your lips and take a hit. If when you have a crack pipe in your hand, you make a decision to not put it to your lips and take a hit, you won't be a crack head any more.

Sounds harsh, but Frey had a harsh life for many years, and it was when he adopted this attitude that he found the strength to change himself.

Special mention must also go to the excellent John Pilger for Hidden Agendas and The New World Order.

Two books by a very respected and serious journalist- instead of the usual tin foil hat wearing brigade- that really made me question the West's motives with regards to foreign policy, and our so called uncensored media.
( The Awful Puppy Bakery is still bored, Wed 21 May 2008, 22:55, Reply)