Every time I read a book, a little bit of it rubs off on me. Given the current state of things, I’m seeking books that can lend me some hope. Books that remind me how strong we are and how resilient. Books with characters who find their way out of the darkness. Books about letting your little light shine. Here are 10 of my favorites, old and new, in no particular order. What would you add to the list?

Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes: Lanesha’s strength and perseverance in the face of Hurricane Katrina and its terrifying aftermath are remarkable. With her fortitude, you leave the book feeling that you too can survive the storm.

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt: When we create a safe space for people, amazing things can happen. Imagine the healing that could take place if we created the sort of community that exists in Mr. Daniels’ classroom wherever we went.

The Honest Truth by Daniel Gemeinhart: Mark’s quest to climb Mount Rainier — and what drives him to it — will break your heart, but his faithful dog Beau (and one amazing ending) will mend it right up again. Never doubt the power of a dog’s love for his boy.

Maybe a Fox by Kathi Appelt and Alison McGhee: At its heart, this is a book about second chances and moving forward, even when it feels nearly impossible to do so. And, I suppose, at its heart-of-hearts, it’s about how love can transcend all boundaries — even death.

A Snicker of Magic by Natalie Lloyd: Yes, old wrongs can be made right — so long as you have a little magic. Felicity’s ability to harness words and return a broken town to its former glory will inspire the poet in you.

Absolutely Almost by Lisa Graff: We’re all great at something, it just may not be in the first place you look. Cheer on Albie as he finally discovers what makes him special, along with the realization that there’s more than one definition of success.

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt: Holling Hoodhood’s take on the world is so dang endearing you can’t help root for the kid. Over the course of his (often hilarious) seventh grade year, Holling faces an endless list of tribulations, but he somehow never loses his zest or zeal.

Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan: When Willow’s life is completely upended by the sudden loss of her parents, she makes an elaborate and carefully devised plan to create a new family for herself — and upends everyone else’s lives in the process. If this group of misfits can find a way to come together — and be better for it — there’s hope for us all.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio: Auggie’s first year at a mainstream elementary school would be interesting enough, but by giving us a look into not only Auggie’s perspective but those of his family, friends and classmates, we see how deeply his presence affects everyone around him and grasp just how important it is to”choose kindness.”

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate: Despite being written from a gorilla’s point-of-view, this book somehow still manages to restore your faith in humanity. Ivan’s gentle soul, his relationship with elephants Stella and Ruby, and his amazing artistic skill will leave you in tears — the good kind.

© 2018 Rachel Martin. All Rights Reserved.